I’m really loving creative neckwear these days and have found some amazing pieces from coast to coast. Chunky necklaces using a variety of materials from plastics to rhinestones to metals combine to create hanging works of art, but these works of art hang not in a gallery or museum, but around your neck. I found the following necklace at Pinky Otto in New York. It never fails to get loads of compliments every time it’s worn! Don’t fret my non-NYC lovelies–they have locations in Boston and LA, too!

Chunky necklace from Pinky Otto

I also recently attended Thread, an independent fashion and design event, and found some amazingly creative wares. Checkedy check it out.  Micha Kuechenhoff, the German-born designer of Micha Design makes some crazy chunky necklaces that have made their way into Nylon, Riviera and Women’s Wear Daily, amongst others. She brings together chains, feathers, brooches and more to create one-of-a-kind pieces that you can throw on with a wifebeater, jeans and heels for instant chic.

Braided Collection

Clusters Collection

Hardware Deluxe Collection

Another treasure found was an adorable and eccentric line called Unstandard Deviations. Jennie Hinkle, the line’s designer, uses polystyrene (a thermoplastic) and and impressions of unique and vintage images to create eye-catching conversation pieces (necklaces, bracelets and more). Not sure why Anthropologie hasn’t picked up her line yet! I think the pieces are fab and you can find them on Etsy. She also takes custom orders.

Here are some of my favorites:

Not for your friends in AA.

Drink Up Buttercup Necklace

Wearing your heart on your chest is better than wearing it on your sleeve.

Anatomical Heart Necklace

Not to be worn after watching “The Birds” movie.

Black Crow Necklace

I love this necklace! It has an ethereal aspect to it. Plus, there’s faint script and antique key, which I love. It’s like a dream on a chain.

Woman and Key Necklace