Van Cleef & Arpels, the prestigious French jewelry house, has been a leader in exceptional craftsmanship since its creation in 1906. Known for their classy designs and exquisite attention to detail, Van Cleef & Arpels pieces have been treasured by jewelry enthusiasts and collectors for decades.
The Vintage Alhambra long necklace with 20 motifs stands out among their iconic creations. Indeed, it is a must-have piece of jewelry in any wardrobe, appreciated for its versatility and sophistication. In this article, we'll explore various styling techniques for the Van Cleef 20 motif necklace, highlighting the advantages of each method, the look it brings, and the best color combinations to consider.
HOW TO STYLE A VAN CLEEF AND ARPELS ALHAMBRA MOTIF NECKLACE?
Wearing Your Van Cleef Like a Birkin Mom
The Classy Chic styling technique is perfect for those who appreciate understated elegance and focus on adopting a poised look. Wearing the Van Cleef 20 motif necklace as a single long strand allows its intricate design and craftsmanship to take center stage. This style exudes a refined and polished vibe, the ideal option for sophisticated events and gatherings. This is the perfect look if you want to adopt the Birkin Mom aesthetic.
Advantages
Showcases the necklace’s full length and detailed motifs.
Creates a streamlined, elegant look.
Shines the most with monochromatic outfits.
Best Colors
Black or white clothes to let the necklace stand out.
Neutral tones like beige or gray necklaces accentuate a subtle and chic appearance.
Wearing Double Layer Van Cleef Necklace
No Tail Styling
Double layering the Van Cleef necklace is a classic style to add dimension and interest to your look. There are two sub-variations: no tail and with tail. See an elegant casual look demonstrated by the TikToker Maram Douzi to your right. @dr.maramdouzi
Advantages
Adds volume and dimension to your neckline.
Keeps the necklace securely in place.
Ideal for higher necklines.
Best Colors
Jewel tones like emerald green or royal blue.
Soft pastels for a delicate, feminine touch.
Multicolored necklaces highlight this styling technique.
With Tail Styling
Doubling the necklace but leaving a tail hanging down adds a playful, slightly bohemian vibe. This style works well with more casual outfits. The TikToker Chloe L. @chloeabeth4545 shows how wearing your layered Van Cleef necklace with a simple white T is a contrasting casual look every It Girl would go for.
Advantages
Make your outfit seem less "put together", adding a playful and effortless element to your look.
The tail creates movement and draws attention.
Perfect for lower necklines.
Best Colors
Simple black necklace to accentuate your neck.
Bright colors for a fun, eclectic look.
Layering Van Cleef Alhambra Necklace With Other Necklaces
Layering the Van Cleef necklace with other pieces can create a textured appearance. There are two main approaches: layering a 20 motif with other Van Cleef necklaces and layering with various necklace styles from different brands.
Layering with other Van Cleef necklaces
Combining multiple Van Cleef necklaces can create a cohesive, luxurious, layered look, emphasizing the brand’s signature style.
Advantages
It maintains a consistent design aesthetic.
Creates a sophisticated, curated appearance.
Perfect for showcasing a collection of Van Cleef pieces.
Best Colors
Layering a necklace of neutral color with a bold-colored one, for example, a white gold 20 motif Alhambra with a 10 motif malachite.
Adopt outfit colors to complement the motifs, such as gold with warm tones or silver with cool tones, to create a cohesive final look.
Layering with necklaces from other brands
Mixing the Van Cleef necklace with different styles and materials adds variety and personal flair to your outfit.
Advantages
Showcase creativity and personalization.
Mixing high-end with less-known designer pieces creates a distinctive look.
Suitable for both casual wear and special occasions.
Best Colors
Metallics like gold and silver for a striking contrast.
Matching tones tie the look together.
Small gold and silver pendants pair well with everything, adding texture to your neck.
Wearing The Van Cleef Alhambra on Your Back
Wearing the 20 motif necklace backward is a bold and unexpected styling choice that works beautifully with backless dresses or tops. The TikToker Mariam Douzi shows how wearing the Vintage Alhambra motif on the back instantly elevates a simple black dress.
Advantages
Creates a dramatic and elegant statement for the back.
It draws attention to the back, perfect for special events.
Adds an element of surprise and refinement to your outfit.
Best Colors
Dark and rich colors like navy or burgundy are the best choice to showcase elegance.
Light, airy colors for a soft, ethereal effect, perfect to pair with lighter color dresses.
Wearing a Van Cleef Necklace As a Lariat
The Van Cleef necklace can be transformed into a lariat, allowing for a new styling option. This can be done by clasping your hock closer to the chain and letting the motifs lay on your decolté; you may want to tuck the rest into your clothes. Here are the TikTokers Marta O. (on your left) and Chloe L. (on your right) demonstrating how wearing your Vintage Alhambra motif as a lariat can suit both a casual daytime outfit and a glamorous night out look. @by.martao @chloeabeth4545
Advantages
Offers an adjustable styling option.
Creates a relaxed yet sophisticated look.
It suits both casual and formal settings.
The technique isn't widely used, which allows you to impress your pairs.
Best Colors
Deep shades to draw attention to the necklace and highlight your cleavage.
Creative Ways To Wear a Van Cleef Necklace
For those looking to experiment further, the Van Cleef 20 motif necklace can be used in additional ways:
As a decorative accessory on a Hermes bag: It creates a chic mood of luxury abundance to your already statement-worthy Kelly. While some may find this styling technique too "new money" for their liking, others see it as an opportunity to personalize their dearest luxury pieces.
Worn around the waist or ankle: Creates a unique and fashionable statement, especially suited for Summer looks. This technique will also bring youthfulness to your look and give off a playful vibe. After all, there is something particularly attractive in downplaying fine jewelry pieces.
Styling the Van Cleef 20 motif necklace offers endless possibilities to express your style while showcasing the beauty of the exquisite Alhambra. Whether you prefer a classic, sophisticated look or a bold, playful approach, the versatility of the Van Cleef 20 motif necklace ensures that it will enhance any outfit. Embrace these styling techniques to make the most of your Van Cleef 20 motif necklace and enjoy the timeless elegance it brings to your wardrobe.
