Wimbledon has always been as much about what is worn off the court as on it. But this year, pearls really made a statement. Two women brought two completely different approaches. Between them, we witnessed a masterclass in how versatile a single gem can be.
Osaka steals the show
Naomi Osaka arrived at Wimbledon 2026 in a kimono outfit that stopped people in their tracks, and her pearl jewellery was no afterthought. On her wrist, a Mikimoto pearl bracelet, the pearls held in place with strips of fabric that matched the kimono itself. Pearl earrings completed the look. The effect was striking enough to blur the line between sport and fashion entirely.
"Naomi Osaka rocked onto the court with her fabulous kimono outfit, wearing pearls on her wrist created by Mikimoto and her own beautiful pearl earrings," says Chrissie Douglas. "They made such an impact. Some people were left wondering whether it was fashion we were looking at or sport."
Mikimoto's involvement is significant. The Japanese house has been cultivating and setting pearls since 1893, and their association with Osaka (herself of Japanese heritage) gives the look a cultural coherence that goes well beyond styling. The bracelet in particular, with its fabric-woven construction, is a design that bridges Japanese craft tradition and contemporary jewellery in a way that few pieces achieve.
Related: Guide to Japanese Pearls: History, Types & Characteristics
Then came Mary Berry
The contrast could not have been greater. Dame Mary Berry wore a yellow gold chain necklace with pearls set at intervals throughout. It’s a piece she returns to regularly and one that barely needs introduction. Where Osaka's pearls were bold and architectural, Berry's were quietly, unmistakably right.
"Mary Berry is wearing one of the pearl necklaces that she actually wears a lot," says Chrissie. "It's a yellow gold chain necklace with some beautiful pearls interspersed within. Very much a statement that conveys pearls are always appropriate. That necklace really says it all."
Two looks, one lesson
Wimbledon 2026 demonstrated something more vividly than any runway show could. It was the range that pearls now occupy in contemporary style. The same gem that a national treasure reaches for season after season can be worked into a kimono bracelet by one of the world's great jewellery houses. It feels equally at home, which is simply the nature of pearl.
For those dressing for Wimbledon or any of the great events of the summer season, Chrissie's advice is to think in sets rather than single pieces. A necklace and earrings create a visual triangle that draws the eye and gives a cohesive look. Add a bracelet and the effect becomes something more considered still.
"For Wimbledon and any of the season events, I would really recommend wearing pearls as a set. A necklace, bracelet and earrings, or certainly earrings and a necklace," says Chrissie. "You want to make the visual triangle to appeal to the eye of the beholder. And since it's fun times and special times, match it to bracelets too. Get the whole game, set and match."
Dress the season in pearls
At Coleman Douglas Pearls, Chrissie has been dressing clients for the English season for over thirty years. She matches pearls to complexion, occasion and personal style with the same care she brings to every piece. Whether you’re drawn to something architectural and modern or something that quietly says everything, there is a pearl for it.
To find the right pearl for the season ahead, visit Coleman Douglas Pearls or book a personal consultation with Chrissie.
