Pearls are always thought of as the most classic, understated and elegant pieces of jewellery. Worn alongside the little black dress or a serious suit, women have regarded pearl jewellery as something that never lets them down and always looks seriously smart.

But smart and classic needn’t mean boring. Like so many classic looks, pearl jewellery is wonderfully versatile and can be pushed in new directions.

For example, why not mix in coloured strands of irregular beads or stones of different lengths along your pearl necklace or bracelet for a more unusual look. Pairing a classic pearl necklace with one which is of a different colour and shape is another way to give a modern twist to a classic look.

Pearl jewellery with jeans? Why not. These days mixing smart clothing such as a Chanel jacket with a Top Shop T-shirt is all the rage and so with jewellery � putting something elegant and classy such as peal necklace with your favourite, washed out jeans works well. Then, simply, add those Prada shoes to complete the look.

Something light and understated such as a white freshwater pearl pendant is one item of pearl jewellery that goes perfectly with a casual T-shirt, for instance, to give an elegant look that shows you�re not trying too hard.

Pairing pearls with dark, sober colours or neutral shades is a well established look. But pearls go beautifully with shocking pink, canary yellow or pistachio. Their pale colour and delicate sheen means that they react beautifully alongside strong colours, providing a subtle contrast in styles. This looks means that a pearl necklace never gets lost with bright colours but neither does it seems to fight it � on the contrary it�s a match made in style heaven.