As a millennial, there are few fashion trends from my childhood that I can stomach coming back into style. Things like layered tank tops, chunky belts, and skinny scarves should stay right where they belong: in my old Facebook albums that I refuse to look at out of sheer embarrassment. But one resurfaced early 2000s trend I can get on board with? Chunky charm necklaces.
The trend, which used to be more about bracelets (remember those Italian charm bracelets that would pinch your arm hair?!), is back and taking on a new, elevated form in necklaces. And it’s such a fun way to be both stylish and current while still feeling nostalgic and fun.
Charm necklaces are also the perfect accessory for parents since the customization aspect allows you to include sweet details about your kids that you don’t want to forget. For example, is your toddler obsessed with a specific animal? There’s a charm for that. Do you want to keep their birthstones close to your heart? There are charms for that. Do you consider your pet to be your first baby? There’s definitely a charm for that.
From chunky charms that adorn the entire neckline to more subtle drop charms, find your new favorite necklace below.
Shop our favorite charm necklaces
Choose your chain style and the number of charms you want on this custom necklace, which can be anywhere from nine to 19 (if you really want to go all-out).
Five styles available
This 14 karat yellow gold-plated necklace features just three stunning charms for a more subtle look while still making a statement: a heart, a disc, and a tag.
Tell your own personal story while building this necklace, which includes multiple charms to choose from, including baby feet, letters, paws, and birthstones.
Two finishes available
If you’d rather not choose your own charms and instead want a necklace that already looks outfit-ready, this beauty featuring nine heart and eye charms on a paperclip chain is the perfect option.
Can’t be at the beach every day? Bring the waves to you with this stunning 14 karat gold gilt necklace featuring five petite charms—a conch shell, a scallop shell, a piece of coral, a starfish, and a cowrie shell.
Great for layering with other necklaces, this multi-charm piece features an eye pendant, which comes in black or mother of pearl, as the center of everything (the perfect metaphor for any parent who’s always watching!).
Two colors available
This gorgeous necklace, which features 22 karat gold-plated brass, turquoise cabochon, and crystal details, really lives up to its name. Just look at those whimsical charms featuring the sun, moon, and stars!
Another great option for building your own, this custom necklace can hold anywhere from one to 14 charms and features options ranging from fun gummy bear charms to chic gold lockets.
Four styles available
If you want a more dainty look, customize this necklace with chain length and style as well as the number of featured charms. Choose from things like birthstones, letters, and magic pendants (a bow, butterfly, and cactus are just a few of the many options).
Three finishes available
Wear your biggest title proudly with this “MAMA” necklace that you can customize with the initials of your littlest loves.
Wear your heart on your, well, neck with this simple-yet-stunning charm necklace. Choose your chain style, the color of the heart, and two additional charms to make this piece entirely unique to you.
Four styles available
This necklace, which comes with 18 karat gold-plated clip-on charms, including a lightning bolt, a compass, a plaque, and a celestial star, allows you to instantly switch up your look to only sport the charms that match your outfit and mood.
At first glance, this necklace, which features a delicate string of pearls, looks like it’s subtle and sophisticated, but upon closer inspection, the skull and rose charms give it an irresistible edge.
Two finishes available
Express your personality in style with this completely customizable necklace. Just choose your chain style and length, then have fun adding your favorite charms that speak to you and your interests. Our favorites? The mini sundrop, dog, Elena, horseshoe, and moon mother charms.
Chains to add your own charms to
If you want to take the personalization of your charm necklace to the next level, making your own is the way to go. Not only is it the best way to ensure your necklace is truly one-of-a-kind, but you can also collect charms over the years that speak to things like personal milestones, family moments, and unforgettable travels.
You can build a true heirloom-worthy piece that you can hand down to your little ones one day. How special is that? If you’re not sure where to start, there are tons of inspo videos on TikTok to get your creativity flowing, and we’ve picked our favorite chains for you to shop below. Think of it as a blank jewelry canvas. Now… ready, set, create!