Description
This sculptural vintage beaded collar is constructed in a netted lattice of glossy black molded plastic beads, forming a dramatic shoulder-draping silhouette with elongated articulated drop beads along the outer edge. Designed to sit high at the neck and cascade across the shoulders, the piece functions as both necklace and adornment, blurring the boundary between jewelry and garment.
The web-like construction creates fluid movement while maintaining structure, allowing the collar to frame the neckline and upper torso with graphic clarity. The elongated drop beads add visual weight and rhythm, moving freely with the body and emphasizing the shoulder line. The collar fastens at the back of the neck and is designed to rest evenly across both shoulders.
This style reflects late 20th-century reinterpretations of earlier ornamental forms, rendered in modern materials. The use of molded plastic beads—rather than glass—was intentional, allowing for scale, movement, and wearability without excessive weight.
Details
- Era: Late 1970s–early 1980s
- Materials: Black molded plastic beads with elongated drop beads
- Construction: Netted beadwork with articulated fringe
- Closure: Back fastening
- Condition: Excellent vintage condition; no visible bead loss
Measurements:
Inner neck opening approx. 18” diameter; shoulder drop approx. 9”; overall width approx. 18”
Curator’s Note
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, designers increasingly turned to plastic and synthetic materials not as substitutes, but as tools for experimentation. Molded plastic beads made it possible to create large, architectural forms that would have been impractical—or unwearable—in glass or stone.
Beaded shoulder collars like this one draw on visual references from Edwardian epaulettes, early theatrical costume, and Art Deco ornament, but their material language is distinctly modern. The uniform black plastic beads produce a matte-to-soft-gloss finish that reads as graphic rather than precious, shifting the piece from jewelry toward wearable object.
Within the archive, this collar is best understood as an example of late-20th-century adornment design—where material innovation enabled dramatic scale, and ornament became an extension of silhouette rather than decoration alone.
Take advantage of our layaway option with Affirm — buy now and pay over time with easy monthly payments. It’s a great way to budget your purchase and you get your item right away!
Return Policy
At Revolving Vintage Closet, every piece is thoughtfully sourced, inspected, and documented with care. Because our garments and décor items are truly one-of-a-kind, all sales are final.
Vintage pieces cannot be replaced once they leave our studio, and return shipping can risk damage to delicate fabrics, trims, and finishes. For this reason, we do not accept returns, exchanges, or cancellations.
We photograph, measure, and describe each item thoroughly to ensure accuracy and to help you shop with confidence. If you would like additional photos, measurements, or styling clarity before purchasing, please reach out — we’re happy to help you find the perfect fit.
Shipping Policy
All items ship from our studio with careful protective packaging.
Tracking is included with every order.
We ship within 2–4 business days, unless noted otherwise in the listing.
Revolving Vintage Closet is not responsible for delays caused by the postal carrier, customs, or weather. If you require signature confirmation, expedited shipping, or insurance upgrades, please contact us prior to purchase.
FOLLOW*
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.