How to Update an Old Beaded Necklace

There are so many ways to transform an old beaded necklace into a beautiful accessory you’ll love wearing. Here are some ideas. Do you have an old, beaded necklace that could use an update? Maybe it’s a necklace with beads that’s been passed down through the generations but doesn’t look quite right with any of your clothing or maybe you found it at an antique store and haven’t been able to find anything in your wardrobe to go with it. Don’t give up on that necklace yet! There are a variety of simple ways to give that old, beaded necklace a much needed face lift. Here’s how to add some style to your necklace:

Layer it.

Sometimes a vintage beaded necklace looks too plain when worn as a single strand. Try wearing it with other necklaces of different lengths to give a multi-strand look. Team it up with other beaded necklaces or try it with some interesting chain necklaces of different lengths. You can completely change the look of a necklace by wearing it in the context of other jewelry. 

Change the length.

This is another effective way to give an old, beaded necklace a fresh appearance. Try removing some beads and creating a stylish choker out of a traditional vintage necklace. If you want to make it longer, add chain in the back to give the necklace additional length. If you don’t feel comfortable shortening or lengthening the necklace, have it done at your local jewelry store or bead store.

Add a unique pendant.

An otherwise boring necklace can be instantly transformed with the addition of a unique pendant. To find the right pendant, visit local bead stores, antique malls, and jewelry stores to see what’s available. Bring along your necklace so you can get an idea of how the pendant will look when attached. You may need to restring the necklace to attach the pendant or you can have it done at your local jewelry store.

Turn it into a bracelet. 

One of the simplest solutions for an old, beaded necklace that’s a bit uninspiring is to wrap it several times around your wrist and then clasp it. Voila! You have an instant vintage looking bracelet. A boring old necklace can look pretty hip when worn on your wrist.

Completely remake the necklace.

This isn’t as difficult as you might think. To do this, take your necklace down to your local bead store. Place it on a bead board and select interesting beads to place between.