None of us particularly want to revisit the statement necklace trend of the 2010s, but if there is one iteration of this style we can get behind, it’s the chunky chain. This prominent jewellery piece packs a punch, with the potential to overhaul an otherwise run-of-the-mill outfit.
Chunky chains have been a fashion staple since hip hop went mainstream in the 1970s, but the style doesn't need to resemble the Cuban link. Designs range from diamond-studded to pared-back, choker to plunging, in shades of silver, gold and everything in between.
The perennial popularity of the chain makes it feel timeless, while a revolution of updates on the trend keeps things fresh. ‘Our fine jewellery customer is looking for investment pieces that give a nod to current trends,’ says Net-a-Porter’s fine jewellery and watches editor, Charlie Boyd.
‘Chains are classic enough to be worn with anything, but their designs can vary wildly according to what is in vogue,’ he continues. ‘Chunky chains are the current darling of fine jewellery connoisseurs – they are statement pieces that can just as easily be paired with athleisure as a contemporary evening dress.’
Chunky chains are enjoying yet another moment in the sun – find the right piece for you in our edit, below.
Jennifer Behr’s bold, romantic pieces are hand-crafted in New York workshops to achieve heirloom standard. Their timelessness, both in terms of style and quality, is felt in this bulky gold wheat chain. Crafted in 24k gold-plated brass, the cable knit-style links are connected with a lobster clasp, and feel simultaneously ornate and modern.
No matter what anyone says, we’re big fans of mixing metals – however, the choice has to feel deliberate. It doesn’t get much more intentional than this chunky curb chain from Martha Calvo, which combines 14k gold-plated brass with rhodium-plated brass in a bold 50/50 split. The two-tone design layers statements, and is the perfect way to add edge to an understated outfit.
Pearls have also had resurgence in recent years – no longer are they the preserve of your grandmother’s jewellery box. And how better to upgrade the classic pearl than to pair it with a chunky chain? This supposed clash of styles – and the bright hue of the gold-plated chain against a milky glass pearl – works surprisingly well, evoking slightly gothic undertones.
Vivienne Westwood's collection of Space Age-inspired jewellery echoes the popularity of the planet motif – which boomed when ‘y2k’ and its maximalist aesthetic reentered the fray in 2022 – as well as the label’s signature punky aesthetic, which is felt in the crystal embellishments and exaggerated chain link of this piece. The pendant’s orb-shaped silhouette, which also serves as a magnetic fastening, is light-hearted, nostalgic and fun.
This style from Lauren Rubinski, which counts Kate Moss and Hailey Bieber among its fans, is sleeker and chicer than your typical chunky chain, with its interlocking links handmade in the brand's Italian workshop. Surprisingly lightweight, the necklace incorporates embellishments on the links for that all-important detail.
Another design-led spin on the traditional chunky chain, this sophisticated piece experiments with a twisted design, placing it firmly in ‘statement piece’ territory. Eminently contemporary-feeling, the length of this tactile 18k gold-plated brass creation means that it can be easily stacked with other necklaces, but also works well solo.
We’re slightly obsessed with this 90s-inspired take on the chain. It’s not, in fact, particularly chunky, instead made up of delicate chain link which creates a diaphanous, draped effect, blurring the boundaries between jewellery and accessory. The fit of this mesh-like composition is adjustable, and can thus be adapted for any look, encompassing the urban elegance of Isabel Marant.
This pale gold statement transcends chunky to verge on the exaggerated and surrealistic. Rendered in a cool tone, this is a fantastic way to bring drama to a black dress with a plunging neckline. The links feel sculpted and organic, like shells, while the overstated scale makes it the perfect antidote to a minimalist outfit.
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