The statement necklace is a key accessory this season, as fashion’s focus shifts from the ear and the wrist to the neck. On the Spring 2010 runways, the most important necklace silhouette is the bib. Wide waterfall styles were shown with strapless styles, one shoulder silhouettes, inside necklines and collars, over boat necks, and even under some of the sheer styles that were all over runways this season.

Chanel showed delicate branched bib necklaces inside the neckline of jackets. Badgley Mischka and Diane von Furstenberg showed beaded fringe bibs. Vera Wang’s beaded web bib is large in scale but surprisingly wearable.  Reem Acra’s bib necklaces have draped swags of pearls and dramatic Mogul style gems.

Bottega Veneta and Lanvin showed heavier more ethnic silver styles set with gems. Bottega Veneta showed overlapping silver leaves and blossoms set with circles of bone.  Lanvin showed layered heavy oxidized silver chain with bold plaques in silver and gold set with cabochon turquoise, amethyst, and other bold gems. Each style was different but all were tough yet glamorous. These chic pieces of style armor are surely a sign of many more necklaces to come.