Pearls are no longer a thing of the past.  Women of all ages can wear them and be extremely fashionable.  All you need to know is how to wear them to make the best statement.  Try these four basic guidelines for the next time you contemplate wearing a strand of pearls:

1. Vintage is back: Look for pearls at places like flea markets or garage sales.  Try to find pearls that are not stark white but rather have a creamy appearance.  The creamy appearance will create a softer pallet next to your skin and the older feel of the pearls will be refreshing against a modern outfit like a blazer and skinny jeans.

2. Look for unique strands: Don’t be afraid to be different.  Find pearls that have multi strands.  Two or three strands of pearls strung together have a chic sophisticated appearance without being stuffy.  Also look for strands that are uneven in size or are set in between jewels.  This will give the pearls a new identity and bring them into the 21^st century.  One more idea for a unique strand of pearls is one that has a pendent hanging from it.  Whether the pendent is chunky or dainty like a cameo, the existence of the added weight to the delicate pearls will add a new twist to an old classic.

3. Try for tiny and lots of layers: When considering a strand of pearls look for strands that are small.  The petite feel of the necklace will give you a light and airy look and frame your face.  Layering the tiny strand with other necklaces will also give freshness to the pearls.  Try gold for a more vintage look or silver to give them a modern flair.  You may also want to try layering the smaller pearls with larger strands.

4. Wear pearls in an unexpected way: Step outside the box when wearing pearls.  The days of only wearing pearls to conservative luncheons or church are out.  Be unexpected, wear a strand (or 2) of pearls with jeans and a funky t-shirt.  Apply the concept of layers to a cinched jacket and tweed pants for the office.

Pearls are a classic that is no longer just for older women.  If you wear them with confidence and follow these basic guidelines the next time you come across a beautiful strand of pearls you just may see them in a brand new light.