HEAVY
METAL
CHAINS

Signs of the contemporary chunky chains first appeared last year on the catwalks of fashion houses from Gucci to Bottega Veneta. Styled as statement pieces atop more casual clothing, these chunky chains were the antithesis of the lightweight layered jewels that have been popular over the past few years. In breaking out bold jewelry, designers appeared to say, ‘After a year at home, ‘I’m ready to go out and have fun again.’

“The new modern links feel substantial, yet very easy and simple,” says Elizabeth Von der Goltz, Chief Commercial Officer of MatchesFashion. “I love how you can wear these statement pieces in a very new and modern way and not feel that they are too precious.”

The classic chain link has been reimagined this year in new pieces including Pomellato’s large, sensuous diamond-paved links, Tiffany & Co.’s slim and elongated diamond-dotted Hardware line, Shay’s chunky metal styles and Sara Weinstock’s elegant link triple strand necklace

“The chain’s versatility means it can suit any age, gender or style depending on the design; it could be urban cool or ultimate classic,” says Vogue Jewelry and Watch editor Rachel Garrahan. “Rather than just the means from which to hang a pendant, the chain has become the focus, further elevated by a splash of diamonds.”

Walters Faith is one jewelry brand that has made chunky chains their signature look because owners Stephanie Abramow and Mollie Good say they work with the currently prevailing casual fashion looks—joggers included. “People are dressing down and bold jewelry is in,” they said. “We love bold jewelry that has weight to it, and the feel of a good chunky chain.” A key piece in their collection is the super-sized oval-shaped Saxon link necklace, which they both wear with jeans and t-shirts.

Great chain links aren’t confined just to necklaces: designers are also creating chunky chain link bracelets, large earrings and even rings. Stand-out pieces include David Webb’s chain link bracelets and rings with enamel, stones and diamonds, which were originally designed in ‘60s and ‘70s and are still being produced today.

The iconic designer David Webb always believed chains were here to stay. “Chains will not go out of style,” Webb said in 1970. He was right: Fifty years later and women still want a strong statement chain.