The tassel necklace is right for fall

The tassel necklace is new again, and stylist Michelle Simpson says the look is definitely worth your fashion dollar.

“It’s a statement piece that adds to your outfit. It’s delicate enough not to overpower what you’re wearing and long enough to layer,” Simpson says.

The tassel necklace is more forgiving than the chunky necklaces popular over the past year, she adds, because “long, more delicate pieces give you length.”

Necklaces showcase tassels of every size, shape and material, from metal to leather to pearls, dangling from chains or beaded chains. Some feature a lone tassel while others hold multiple tassels.

The tassel should hit just above the bustline or below. “You can have it too short, but you really can’t wear it too long,” Simpson says.

Nan Faulkner of Pink Dogwoods Jewelry named her new collection ReImagined Tassels. She debuted the line at Urban Digs this month, and though her signature style typically features components of period rhinestones, she calls this a fresh move towards leather and metal.

She cuts her leather tassels by hand from deconstructed purses and wallets. Metal tassels are assembled from vintage chains and beads. Many of her chain tassels combine different metals and finishes.

Simpson says this look is spot on. “Mixed-media jewelry feels contemporary,” she says.

Leather tassels are decidedly colorful, but they are not the brights we saw last spring. Simpson says mint is having a moment as well as a deep purplish blue, shades of magenta and rustic orange. “These colors aren’t so pungent, but still can bring a lot of color to fall neutrals.”

The mix of leather and beads also gives a nod to summer’s biggest trend, boho. Simpson believes tassels take boho into fall and can bring your fall wardrobe together.

Falkner recommends tassels for women of all ages. “Tassels are timeless. Coco Chanel wore tassels, Cartier made gemstone tassels,” she says. “Part of the resurgence of vintage is bringing back the classics.”