I found myself binging one of my favorite shows on HBO, Run the World. The overall premise of the sitcom follows the lives of four successful Black women while also examining their own individual struggles – from career changes to discovering life’s purpose to infidelity – this one runs the gamut when it comes to representation of what modern Black women typically toil with on the day-to-day.
And, there it was!
One of the main characters, Whitney, donned a multicolored tartan ‘fit by Vivienne Westwood and also (perched atop Whitney’s neck) was the brand’s “Three Row Pearl Drop Choker”. I went nuts! I can’t tell you how many times I had to rewind and pause to catch a glimpse of the fully loaded look. See the image of Whitney below:
I immediately identified the culprit behind the stunning piece – simply by Vivienne Westwood’s signature 3D-orb – which is featured (front and center) with three rows of Swarovski pearls surrounding its decadence. Never, have I ever, flocked to a designer’s website so quickly.
Vivienne Westwood is a legend. Westwood dominated the 90s with her quirky prints, flattering cuts and over-the-tops runway shows; however, she also left her mark in the accessories realm. Vivienne Westwood’s spin on the ultra-feminine pearl choker has proved it’s a timeless addition to any wardrobe.
Yes, the Vivienne Westwood pearl choker also went viral on Tik Tok. But, my love for the brand runs deeper than just a second-long clip. My love runs from the first Sex and the City movie and Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic (and free) wedding dress and let’s not forget the 1800s-inspired bustiers from Westwood’s Autumn/Winter 1990 runway collection. Westwood’s ability to capture a fashion genre and transform it into her own interpretation has always been the reason I flock towards her genius.
While Whitney’s three-strand version retails for about $540, I fully understand that my pockets aren’t quite that deep yet. For my budget, I opted for the “Mini Bas Relief Choker in the Gold-Tone” (which rings in for a cool $195). It’s understated yet it still packs that Vivienne Westwood punch. Totally worth it!
My necklace came in on last week and I couldn’t love my selection any more. The packaging was lush, the delivery was fast and I was updated on the progress of my shipment every step of the way. For those of you that have followed me for quite some time, you may remember a past blog post that highlighted normalizing luxury. This is a way that I continue to uphold that belief.
No, it may not be the most expensive, nor may it be the most exclusive but it holds a place in my heart as a personal treasure. When I birth my own daughter, I’ll pass this down to her as part of my legacy. Thanks to Whitney of Run the World – I was reminded that pearls can be sexy and, through her influence, I’m poised to add additional crystalline accents to my jewelry collection.
What do you guys think of this recent purchase? I’d also love to hear how you’re implementing tiny doses of luxury into your own life. Sound off below!
Photography Credits: 1) Picture of Whitney of Run the World via WornOnTV, 2) Pictures of Vivienne Westwood runway shows via Pinterest and 3) Picture of the Vivienne Westwood “Mini Bas Relief Choker in Gold-Tone” via Vivienne Westwood
“I’m not trying to do something different, I’m trying to do the same thing in a different way.”
-Vivienne Westwood
ESMESHA CAMPBELL - Lifestyle, Fashion Culture, and Beauty 