Chain necklaces have long been considered an everyday essential.
Whether you prefer thick statement designs or layerable lightweight iterations, they’re the not-so well kept secret that will bring effortless chic elegance to any pared-back look. You really can never go wrong loading up on the trusty style to curate an enviable jewellery collection.
Within this sphere, there’s a micro trend taking over as a minimalistic alternative to the chunky chain that has been a stalwart in our rotation for years.
The paperclip necklace is something you’ve no doubt spotted on your Instagram feed or gracing the necks of the fashion set. In gold, silver or two-toned, they’re timeless, can be used as a one-chain detail or have infinite layering appeal to be adorned alongside every and any other piece in your collection to give it a more striking aesthetic.
The trend-led designs are characterised by delicate and dainty rectangular links inspired by the shape of the stationery essential and can be found in gold or silver, set with pearls or diamonds or kept clean, classic and elegant.
See our favourite paperclip necklaces at all price points below
Best chains and necklaces for men in silver and gold
Best sustainable jewellery brands
Best jewellery organisers: boxes, drawers and more to keep your jewellery tidy
Best earring sets for stacking
Best birthstone jewellery for every month of the year
Best gold necklaces to take your jewellery collection up a notch
Monica Vinader Paperclip Chain Necklace Adjustable 46cm/18”
This dainty paperclip chain is made to be layered. The delicate design makes for an everyday piece that will form the foundation in which other styles can transform it from a casual, to more formal dress codes. It is made entirely from recycled 14k solid gold so it will wear beautifully.
Buy now £350.00, Monica Vinader
Missoma Coterie Chain Necklace
Instagram-favourite label Missoma has put a textured twist on the classic aesthetic of the paperclip necklace with plain and twisted links set against each other. The design takes inspiration from ropes and bonds and the way they move. You can affix charms additionally to take it from simple to striking in an instant. Made from 18ct gold plated brass.
Buy now £198.00, Missoma
Mejuri Bold Link Chain Necklace
Fine jewellery made affordable is Mejuri’s MO and the same is true for this chain necklace, a hugely popular style from the label. An exemplary take on the paperchain, it lets the links do the talking. Available in gold vermeil or sterling silver, it can be worn all day, every day and take you from 9-5 to after hours.
Buy now £148.00, Mejuri
Hey Harper Boss Necklace
Don’t let the affordable price tag fool you, Hey Harper is one of the most hard-wearing brands on the market with its waterproof construction that leaves tarnishes and green oxidisation out of the equation. The Boss necklace is a simple but sleek style in a stainless steel and 14k golden exterior that will stand the test of time - you’ll never need to take it off.
Buy now £48.00, Hey Harper
Estella Bartlett The Edit Paperclip Link Chain Necklace, Gold
Estella Bartlett is here to simplify the gifting process with its purse-friendly and trend-led styles. The brand has tapped into the paperclip trend with this delicate and minimal necklace that will elevate any white t-shirt and jeans combo. Made from gold plated brass.
Buy now £35.00, John Lewis
Pandora ME Link Chain Necklace
Charms are at the heart of Pandora’s collections and with this chain paperclip style, you can load up with the playful detailings to personalise it, whether to mark special occasions or to create an eye-catching curation. Alternatively, keep it simple and it’s an easy win in your jewellery collection. Sterling silver.
Buy now £125.00, Pandora
Orelia Large Link Chain Necklace in Gold
This paperclip necklace from Orelia will become part of your everyday curation, bringing an elevated detail to wear with casualwear. It provides endless styling potential when paired with shorter pendant necklaces. The piece is crafted in gold plated brass.
Buy now £15.00, Orelia
Mulberry Pearl-pendant paperclip-chain silver-plated necklace
Mulberry may already play a part in your accessory collection with its signature leather goods but it’s coming for your jewellery box too with this paperclip necklace. Taking the minimalistic style to the next level, it comes with a freshwater pearl pendant in tow with a toggle-clasp fastening.
Buy now £270.00, Selfridges
Amadeus Daphne Paperclip 14ct yellow gold-plated vermeil recycled sterling silver necklace
Amadeus Daphne is a small independent jewellery label that handmakes each of its pieces in recycled and Fairtrade materials, in which this paperclip style is a true favourite. While the necklace pictured is kept classic save for the oversize carabiner-style ring, there are pre-loved pearls and turquoise stone embellishments too, all of which have a vintage feel.
Buy now £270.00, Selfridges
Muru Jewellery Initial Padlock Charm Paperclip Necklace Gold 18”
Lock on to the trend with this padlock pendant piece in which the symbol that is now synonymous with everlasting love is placed on a classic paperclip chain. The gifting potential is evident but made all the more so by the ability to have it engraved with an initial. It is created with sterling silver or 18ct gold-plated vermeil.
Buy now £109.00, Muru Jewellery
Awe Inspired Chunky Paperclip Necklace in sterling silver
Fine jewellery label Awe Inspired is the ethical label behind this chunky paperclip chain necklace. It has a utilitarian, industrial feel that is front and centre on the fashion agenda and will bring an edgy touch to your look. Created with sterling silver.
Buy now £341.00, Wolf & Badger
Lutiro Paperclip & Freshwater Pearl Necklace
While maintaining the elegance of the paperclip chain, this necklace from Canadian jewellery label Lutiro has taken a bolder approach by setting the links with freshwater pearls to create a timeless staple in your jewellery rotation. The necklace is available in sterling silver as well as 14k gold plating.
Buy now £102.00, Wolf & Badger