Retro Power Necklaces

’80s power necklaces

It’s true, folks–I was a kid in the ’80s. Which means I’m old enough to have lived through some of the retro trends that are now re-emerging. It also means that by the time I was 12, I was building my own collection of ’80s power jewelry. Thick silver chains, heavy bracelets and Deco-style earrings–you name it! Yes, while still playing with dolls (which I never would have admitted), I was leaving for school in the morning looking like a high-power career woman on her way to the nightclub. But now that I’m out of the tween phase, it’s time to give retro power necklaces a second look…

A white Napier chain link necklace

Thanks to brands such as Napier, Monet and Anne Klein, quite a few ’80s and ’90s jewelry finds have held up beautifully. These pieces were substantial, and they’ve weathered the last few decades very well (unlike affordable furniture from the ’80s). This past Christmas, I picked out the white Napier chain link necklace (above) from New Bohemia, one of my favorite Austin, TX vintage boutiques! I LOVE this piece. Its lacy appearance makes it the perfect addition to my New Wave outfit featuring a black blazer and a knit floral top. Think Molly Ringwald a la Pretty In Pink. Yet the piece can also go glam with a fitted sweater of your choice, especially a sweater in a pastel shade.

A silver choker makes a bold statement

Above we see one of my estate sale finds from this past fall. I wear it with an ’80s Deco tropical button down top. The combo works surprisingly well. That’s what I love about power necklaces–they have a way of glamming up a wide variety of outfits. For a more subtle approach, I wear the sterling silver chain below. This one is actually from my childhood. Yes, I’ve finally grown into it!

A thick ’80s chain adds a touch of glimmer

That’s the thing about power necklaces–they may seem like a bit much at first, but as it turns out, they have a way of “making” an outfit without completely stealing the show. Maybe that’s why brands such as Topshop, Urban Outfitters and Forever 21 have brought them back in recent seasons…