Cultured pearls are perhaps the easiest way to dress up any outfit. If you have a simple suit jacket and trousers to wear to a business meeting, cultured pearls will pull it all together. If you want to wear a simple tank dress to an upscale restaurant, pearls will take it to a higher level.

Dressing up with Pearls

One of my favorite ways to wear pearls is with a sweater or turtleneck. I don't like to spend a lot of time or effort getting dressed up. I also prefer to be comfortable. In the past, these preferences meant that I was often underdressed. I'd be the only person at the office in slacks, or the only person to show up for Christmas in jeans.

Fearing that I might always dress like a slob, my parents bought me a single strand of pearls for my 16th birthday. My mother taught me to wear it with sweaters or turtlenecks whenever I wanted to dress down, while giving the impression that I was dressing up. The same sweater and pants that could look offensively casual suddenly look very impressive when topped with a pearl necklace.

For a totally comfortable, elegant look, try wearing a fitted, dark turtleneck, a suit jacket, and a strand of pearls. This fool-proof outfit can be worn absolutely anywhere. Something so versatile and comfortable makes an ideal travel outfit. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, pack this easy, go-anywhere outfit.