Rethinking Trends

By Talya Pekdogan

Are trends even original anymore?

Over the past few years, I’ve watched enough TikTok to confidently call myself an expert in trend-spotting. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that everyone follows trends.

My mom got into Reformer Pilates because all the women her age on Instagram were doing it. My professors tried (and failed) to use “Gen Z slang” in lectures. Everywhere I looked, people were hopping on the latest thing, making me wonder: is anything even original anymore? Or are we all just copy-paste versions of each other in a globalized world?

The pearl trend & my love-hate relationship with it

I’ve always loved fashion and followed the scene closely. One year, it was leopard print. The next, Sofia Richie’s quiet luxury era brought back pearls, which felt both classic and a little old-fashioned.

Being a Blair Waldorf girl, I immediately embraced the pearl revival. Wearing them made me feel like her — polished, sophisticated, and, if I’m being honest, just a little pushy. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized:

1. I didn’t actually like Blair’s attitude.
2. I wasn’t comfortable with how pearls are made.

Pearls might be a symbol of elegance, but their creation? Not so glamorous. They form as an oyster’s defense mechanism against irritants. It made me think: aren’t trends kind of the same? We take something raw, shape it into what’s considered “perfect,” and suddenly, it’s the new must-have.

A more ethical, elevated alternative to pearls

I grew up by the beach in Turkey, where vendors sold so-called fresh pearls. Back then, I didn’t think twice about it. But now, working at BOUND, I see things differently.

On my first day, we had an event, and my colleague Saule was wearing this stunning white beaded necklace. At first glance, I thought it was an ethical pearl necklace, but it turned out to be something even better—the white quartz Yuna necklace.

It was love at first sight.

Not only did it capture everything I now appreciate — sustainable design, unique style, and timeless elegance — but it also looked even better than traditional pearls.

Why white quartz is the ultimate gemstone necklace

For those who love the pearl aesthetic but want something more refined and ethical, this gemstone necklace is it. Here’s why:

• The look (without the guilt)

The white quartz Yuna necklace gives you that classic pearl-like glow but with a more natural, soft radiance. Traditional pearls can be overly bright, stealing attention away from your natural beauty. White quartz, on the other hand, reflects light in a way that enhances, not overshadows; your features.

• Energy & meaning

Unlike pearls, which form from an oyster’s defense mechanism, white quartz carries a high-vibrational, uplifting energy. It’s known for promoting:

1. Clarity – helping you focus on what truly matters
2. Balance – keeping you grounded and aligned
3. Positivity – elevating your everyday energy

A necklace should be more than just an accessory—it should bring something meaningful into your life.

Perfect for necklace stacks

Another thing I love? The versatility. The white quartz Yuna necklace is designed to pair seamlessly with necklace stacks, whether you’re going for a minimalist layered look or mixing textures for a bold statement.

Try styling it with:

1. A dainty gold chain for an elegant contrast
2. A chunky silver piece for a modern edge
3. Other gemstone necklaces for a colorful, dynamic look

The final word

Trends come and go, but timeless, ethically made pieces are forever. The white quartz Yuna necklace is proof that you don’t have to compromise on beauty, energy, or values. It’s the lab-grown gemstone necklace that gives you the pearl look — without the pearl process.

Ready to upgrade your necklace stacks? Discover the white quartz Yuna necklace today.