Pearls are Always Right

I learned a new fashion tip today at school.  Whilst discussing how black suits can be right for literally every occasion (or at least all of their parts), pearls came up.  One of the women with whom I work said, "Black is always right, just like pearls are always right."  Of course, having never heard the pearl part I was confused and required clarification.  

Apparently, in Victorian times, diamonds were only permissible at night, as they were considered "elegant" attire.  Pearls, however, could be worn both afternoon and evenings, and were therefore "always right."  I had never really fancied pearls until lately, and now I love them.  I told her my favorites are the long strands that double and triple up and can be knotted and such.  She said, "oh, opera pearls."  Again, confusion.  But opera pearls are the long kind that women often wore to the opera.  Coco Chanel, in fact, was famous for her strands of opera pearls. 

In the same vein, matinee pearls are 20-24" strand pearls, and often considered more classic.  These can be worn all the time, and hang nicely under suits or with dresses along the collar bone.

And then, of course, as every woman knows, there are Tiffany sterling silver pearls, which are much more recent and hugely popular.  However, I must note here, that they are actually called "beads" as they are not true pearls.  However, they are usually about 18" and very classic.

Again, I love opera pearls but all three are infinitely important and truly make or break outfits based on function.  Happy pearl-ing!