Are name necklaces still in style?

08 Apr.,2024

 

If there’s one thing you can expect from fashion, it’s that trends never really die. They may fade from the mainstream, but more often than not, they’ll reenter the fashion world bigger and better the next time around.

 

You may have had a customized necklace when you were younger. And now, you can relive your glory days with an elevated piece of nostalgia. That’s right—the personalized name necklace trend is back and will be one of the most popular jewelry trends in 2023.

Let’s explore the recent renaissance of the custom necklace and discover how you can join this fashion revolution. By understanding the history and custom jewelry process of this accessory, you’ll realize why it’s a timeless essential.

The History of the Name Necklace

Before we discuss the recent necklace comeback, we need a little context about how this adorable accessory started. So break out the notebook and pencils, because history class is in session.

Custom necklaces gained popularity in the 80s and began their illustrious rise to fame. Like many staple fashion pieces, they exceeded several milestones along the way:

  • Cultural significance – A necklace with custom names was prevalent among the Black and Latinx communities in the early 80s. In an essay written by Isabel Flower and Marcel Rosa-Salas, they describe nameplates' role in giving people of color or low-income individuals room to take up space and combat threats of conformity.1
  • Pop culture pieces – As these nameplates grew in popularity among people of color, they started populating music videos of rappers and hip-hop artists. Suddenly, you couldn’t turn on MTV without seeing custom jewelry.
  • Mainstream attention – In the 2000s, custom name necklaces reached peak popularity in the mainstream media thanks to Sex And The City’s Carrie Bradshaw.2 Once this fictional fashion guru started sporting name necklaces, everyone wanted a piece. Suddenly the “Carrie Necklace” was as iconic as her shoe collection.

Seeing how the stance on name necklaces has shifted over the years provides insight into its recent comeback. You can count on your personalized necklace to help you take up space and claim your individuality, no matter the current trends.

Why the Name Necklace Is Back in Fashion

Even with a bit of historical background, you may be asking yourself the burning question: are name necklaces in style today?

While your own style doesn't need to conform to the current trends, you can rest assured that name necklaces are very much the now.

Next, we'll discuss how and why customized name necklaces have held their own over the years and can make an excellent addition to your jewelry collection.

#1 Customized Named Necklaces Follow Modern Trends

Whenever a new decade comes around, style experts try to dissect the main components that make up that era in fashion. Even though we're still in the early 2020s, we can pinpoint a few factors that define this time in fashion history.

Some terms to describe 2023 fashion may include:

  • Eclectic
  • Unique
  • Bold
  • Statement
  • Comfortable
  • Cutting-edge
  • Effective

The internet's rise and the cultural net's widening have created a fashion era unlike any other. Modern fashion borrows influence from all over the world.

In an age where it's essential to remain individualistic (and easy to follow in everyone else's footsteps), custom name necklaces can strengthen your style significantly.

Wear your name, nickname, or favorite mantra to express yourself to the changing world around you.

#2 Customized Named Necklaces Never Go Out of Style

Name necklaces have remained relevant throughout the years because they're incredibly timeless.

Another fashion trend that has swept up the nation revolves around minimalism. Inspired by the chic it-girls of the 90s, many cling to the idea of a put-together look for their everyday attire.

A custom name necklace provides a simple accent that punctuates your personality effectively and fabulously. Start your day off right with a simple gold custom name necklace and a subtle pair of earrings to complete the look.

#3 Name Necklaces Make a Bold Fashion Statement

Not only do custom necklaces allow you to showcase your unique name, but they also present an opportunity to show off something incredibly valuable: your style.

In the 80s, iced-out necklaces were the norm. In the early aughts, delicate cursive letters prevailed. There's no set rule for how nameplate necklaces should look these days. Instead, you can trust expert jewelers to deliver a custom necklace that checks every box.

Customize your necklace your way by tweaking features such as:

  • Metal – Do you prefer to look like a golden goddess or a silver moonbeam? Regardless of your preference, you can customize your necklace by opting for vibrant yellow gold or stunning sterling silver. Want something a little more romantic? Rose gold can bring some feminine flair to your blush.
  • Diamond inlays – Invite some sparkle to your statement piece. Adding gorgeous diamonds to your personalized jewelry can make for an exciting accessory you'll want to wear every day. If you're looking for the perfect gift for your significant other, look to diamonds to say everything words can't.
  • Font – Take your personalized necklace to the next level by ensuring every letter counts. Whether you prefer soft, elegant lettering or bold script, you can find the perfect font to reflect your personality.

By making a few adjustments, you can ensure that your custom necklace fits into your collection seamlessly. Trust your inner fashion guru and let your fine jewelry highlight the true you.

#4 Name Necklaces Make Meaningful Gifts

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but a beautiful custom necklace with a name is worth even more.

Customized necklaces allow you to celebrate the things that mean the most to you. Whether you want to celebrate yourself, shower your loved one with love, or mark a significant occasion, name necklaces can do it all. With just a few words, you can say so much.

You don't even have to go the traditional route by spelling out a name. You can imbue meaning with other short, beautiful phrases, such as:

  • I love you
  • Queen
  • Bride-to-be
  • Angel

Custom necklaces prove excellent presents for showers, engagement parties, birthdays, or anniversaries. No matter the occasion, mark it with a piece of fine jewelry they will cherish forever. Or snag one for yourself. You've got to treat yourself every once in a while, right?

#5 Custom Necklaces Are Incredibly Versatile

Custom name necklaces provide plenty of style on their own, and they can also easily add some extra oomph to existing outfits (and accessories).

If you think you can only style a chain necklace one way, think again. You can make a personalized name necklace your own by subverting expectations or adding unique elements.

Explore all the possibilities custom necklaces have to offer by:

  • Layering necklaces – Add depth and visual interest to your outfit by layering your favorite necklaces. Opt for a smaller chain for your name necklace (so the lettering is highly visible) and surround it with longer chains. This difference in textures creates an eclectic yet intentional look that draws the eye.
  • Adding charm – Remember how much we all loved charm bracelets back in the MTV days? Put a new spin on it by adding some charms to your custom name necklace. Take a trip to your local craft store and grab some trinkets and jewelry tools, or leave it to the professionals and opt for expertly designed accents.
  • Matching accessories – If you've got a custom name necklace, why not pair it with a personalized bracelet or pair of earrings to match? By surrounding yourself with words that display your personality, you won't have to worry about first impressions. Your jewelry can do it for you.

A truly fantastic accessory can enhance multiple outfits rather than just one. Luckily, with their supreme versatility, name necklaces can elevate any ensemble—from simple sophistication to maximal statements.

#6 Celebrities Love Name Necklaces

If you want to know if a style trend holds legitimacy, look to your favorite celebrities and style icons. If you scan today’s Instagram feeds or fashion magazines, you may notice that customized necklaces have started popping up on many famous figures.

Some celebrities that can stop sporting this style include:3

  • Beyoncé
  • Jennifer Lopez
  • Vanessa Hudgens
  • Bella Hadid
  • Halsey
  • Kim Kardashian
  • Emily Ratajkowski

Claim your fame by rocking your own beautiful name. Because even if you’re not a celebrity, you can still be your own biggest fan. And if you’re looking for a memorable celebrity name to go by, you can always follow Beyonce and Cher’s lead and go for a one-word title. Talk about iconic.

Customize Your Name Necklace with Noémie

It's clear why custom name necklaces have so much staying power. With their sleek design, unique construction, and rich history, it's evident that these gorgeous necklaces aren't going anywhere.

Celebrate the most important person in your life (whether a child, a significant other, or yourself) with a stunning custom necklace from Noémie.

Our designs uplift, inspire, and encourage every individual to tell their story. Show your true colors by customizing your necklace your way—from the choice of metal all the way to the personalized lettering.

Discover your playful personality and other hidden gems with our specialized collections. It’s time to say your name loud and proud—with help from Noémie.


Sources:

  1. Flower, Isabel, and Marcel Rosa-Salas. “Say My Name: Nameplate Jewelry and the Politics of Taste.” QED: A Journal in GLBTQ Worldmaking, vol. 4, no. 3, 2017, pp. 109–26. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.14321/qed.4.3.0109.
  2. Vice. Uncovering the Cultural History of the Nameplate Necklace. https://www.vice.com/en/article/3k4dmn/uncovering-a-cultural-history-of-the-nameplate-necklace
  3. The Ozone Report. Celebrities Love This Nostalgic Jewlery Trend – And It’s Roots Are Important. https://www.thezoereport.com/culture/nameplate-necklaces-celebrities

 

Name necklaces are once again back and are trending in women's jewelry. But don't just take our word for it. For the seven reasons listed below, 2023 is the year to wear a personalized name necklace.

Seasons Change, but Name Necklaces Remain

Understanding why name necklaces stuck around and are still on trend in 2023 has everything to do with the story of their origin.

First worn by women in Black and Latinx communities in the early ‘80s and ‘90s, nameplate necklaces were a symbol of self-expression. Women wore these necklaces to proudly display their non-Anglican names—which were often hard to pronounce—and represent their cultural identity and individuality. An origin story that involves women's empowerment—it doesn’t get better than that.

But, if you need more persuading, here are 7 reasons why you should add a name necklace or two to your necklace collection.

1. They Are a Personalized Fashion Statement Piece

What makes something trendy in 2023 is its ability to help you stand out from the crowd, making a unique mark on the design world. There are different styles for both women and men, including timeless classic looks, intricately crafted pieces, and fresh, innovative wearable art for the young at heart.

The best part is that there are limitless combinations to ensure you are donning a one-of-a-kind piece because of the abundance of designs and fonts, the array of bright colors, and the plethora of eye-catching jewels.



Our Recommendation: Add Unique Tiles

This unique piece with its horizontal style is definitely eye-catching and will have everyone talking. If standing out from the crowd is what you are looking for, then this eclectic one-of-a-kind design will definitely help you achieve that.

Why We Love It

  • One-of-a-kind necklace

  • Special tile design to stand out from the crowd

  • Trendy design



2. Name Necklace Style Options Are Unlimited

Nowadays, a name necklace is no longer limited to a gold script nameplate or a diamond-encrusted piece (although these are still great options). They have had multiple facelifts. These are some of the trending variations:

  • Beaded name necklaces are right on trend.

    Depending on the type of beads, they could offer you a casual and colorful "summer camp" look or a formal style with pearls.

  • Crystals are definitely in at the moment.

    There are stunning clear quartz, cubic zirconia, and diamond name necklaces to keep up with the times.

  • Chains make an impact too.

    Especially

    eye-catching paperclip necklaces and jewelry

    . Pairing the nameplate with a link chain is a great modern twist on the name necklace.

  • Layering creates more drama.

    You can layer name necklaces over clothes or wear them above the neckline, making them very versatile.

  • Chokers are very popular.

    They're great for most necklines and are generally regarded as the most flattering length of the necklace. They're also ideal for creating a layered look.

  • Mix metals for an instant update.

    Gold, rose gold, and silver can easily be mixed and matched.

The name necklace can be redesigned in so many different forms using different metals, gems, and shapes giving it the fresh take you need in your life!



Our Recommendation: Layer Different Styles

There's a proverb that goes something like, "variety is the spice of life." These necklaces are sure to spice up your life with their innovative metal combinations and layered design.

Why We Love It

  • Can use different metals and gems

  • Can be layered with different necklaces

  • Flattering with any look



3. Meaningful Name Necklace Jewelry Is Always on Trend

While jewelry is a gorgeous accessory to complement your outfit, name necklaces do more than this. Nothing is more timeless than the gesture of giving someone a personalized name necklace with a meaningful message attached.

The symbols of our names allow us to encapsulate our identities into a single form—a reminder of our accomplishments, strengths, and one-of-a-kind offering to this world.



Our Recommendation: Add a Special Symbol or Moment

In combining, intertwining, and exhibiting our loved ones' names with our own, we acknowledge the impact of their starring roles in the movies of our lives.

In addition to being a beautiful piece of jewelry, the name necklace is also a meaningful keepsake that can be worn with pride for the rest of your life.

Why We Love It

  • It adds a personal touch

  • Perfect for those who are sentimental at heart

  • It will always be a meaningful piece



4. A Fashion Statement Without Spending a Fortune

One of the advantages of making a name necklace your jewelry item of choice is affordability, made possible by the advancements in technology.

Metals and gems, traditionally the most expensive components of jewelry, have come a long way, allowing more affordable options. Lab-created diamonds and cubic zirconias are becoming the popular gems of choice for name necklaces. Silver name necklaces can be found in a variety of metals, including sterling silver, silver plating, stainless steel, and solid silver.

You'll find name necklaces to suit every style and budget. With more people now able to afford name necklaces, they're seen much more often and are making more of a mark on the fashion world.



Our Recommendation: Go Big Without Breaking the Bank

You can still make a fashion statement by wearing a name necklace that is specifically tailored to your budget. But affordability doesn't come at the expense of quality—leading us to the next point.

Why We Love It

  • Super affordable

  • Suits every style and budget

  • Comes in different shapes and sizes



5. Name Necklaces Are the Best Fashion Staple

These more pocket-friendly materials are often highly durable, like gold vermeil, stainless steel, sterling silver, and other alloys. Opting for a quality name necklace means you can enjoy all your usual activities while donning your namesake, whether on the beach or at the club.

They also come in sleek, understated, or minimalist designs, meaning that people can wear them with any outfit or occasion. Their durability and versatility mean that name necklaces don't have to be locked in a jewelry box and only taken out for special occasions—they're made to be worn.



Our Recommendation: Stock up on Your Fashion Staples

Fashion Staple

Fashion Staple
Custom 3D Bar Necklace Matte in Gold Vermeil

4.6

Buy Now



Name necklaces are quickly becoming an essential go-to fashion accessory for many to elevate their outfits. The name necklace's durability and versatility guarantee that you will never be without your favorite fashion staple.

Why We Love It

  • Incredibly durable

  • It was made to be worn

  • Super versatile



6. They Are Overall the Best and Trendiest Gifts

If you want to step up your gift-giving game, handpicking a personalized jewelry piece is the way to go. While we know your intentions are there, sometimes, we simply lack inspiration when it comes to picking out a gift.

To top it all off, the stakes have been raised. More and more, people are turning away from lavish gifts with little to no meaning in favor of thoughtful, personal tokens of love, appreciation, or gratitude.

The versatility of a name necklace makes it an ideal gift for any woman (or man). Just pick the color you like (gold, silver, or rose), the font, and the size you want. You can also have a message engraved on a bar or disc or include charms that have a special meaning to your loved one. And for that extra touch, you can add some smart packaging ideas for Christmas gifts or birthday presents that emanate style.



Our Recommendation: Give a One-Of-A-Kind Gift

Trendiest Gift

Trendiest Gift
Siena Chain Bar Necklace in Sterling Silver

4.8

Buy Now



Giving your loved ones a customized, one-of-a-kind name necklace as a gift guarantees that they will always be on trend.

Why We Love It

  • Personalized gift

  • One-of-a-kind and trendy

  • Token of appreciation, gratitude, and love



7. Have the Best Variety to Match Everyone’s Style

If you think nameplate necklaces are tacky or don't fit in with your style, think again! In 2023, there are more options to choose from than ever before, meaning that name necklaces will ALWAYS be in style.

You can choose from a wide variety of metals according to your preferences and which color suits your skin tone. Name necklaces can be simple and elegant, or they can be dripping in jewels. Name necklaces come in all lengths so that you can coordinate them with your favorite clothing necklines. Nameplates can hang horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, depending on whether you want a more contemporary or classic look.

Of course, you can now include as many names as you'd like. Include a meaningful date or a short message if it's a gift for a loved one. They don't even need to be nameplates, as you can have them engraved on different shapes, interlinking rings, or beads.



Our Recommendation: Mix and Match Different Styles

Because of its adaptability, the name necklace can be worn with a wide range of looks, from the most cutting-edge to the most timeless.

Why We Love It

  • Always in fashion

  • Matches different types of style

  • Always on trend



Name Necklaces Are Fashion-Forward Jewelry With a Lot of Heart

While male jewelry trends rely more on pieces like men's leather bracelets, who says you cannot gift the man in your life a name necklace too? Name necklaces make the perfect gift, not only because they're fashionable but because of their special meaning and thoughtfulness. These personalized jewelry pieces are one of the best ways to express your love and affection for a friend, partner, or family member if you don't want to go with something classic like a customizable bracelet for your husband or a classy ring for grandma.

Of course, name necklaces are great to gift yourself too! Make your personal mark on the fashion world and wear your fully customized necklace with pride.

Find and flaunt your namesake

Are name necklaces still in style?

7 Reasons Name Necklaces Are Trending in 2023