Updated on: March 24, 2026 | Maison de l'Amour
Do you have to be a believer to wear a cross? Fashion's answer is NO. Since the 1980s, the cross has transcended its religious meaning to become a universal style symbol. Sometimes rock, sometimes chic goth or ultra-minimalist, it is now a bold accessory. At Maison de l'Amour, we reinterpret it in gold stainless steel for a touch of bold elegance every day.
1. From church to the runway: The evolution of an icon
It's one of the most frequently asked questions: "I love your cross necklaces, but I'm not a practicing believer. Am I allowed to wear them?"
To understand why the answer is a resounding yes, we need to go back in time. It was in the 1980s that pop culture embraced this symbol. Rebellious icons like Madonna (particularly in her Like a Prayer music video) reinterpreted the traditional cross, turning it into a provocative, sexy accessory deeply rooted in fashion.
Later, Haute Couture houses (such as Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana) incorporated it extensively into their collections. The cross is no longer merely an object of faith: it has become a fashion icon.
Model wearing a cross at a Chanel fashion show. Photo from ladepeche.fr
2. What does the cross symbolize today?
When worn outside a purely religious context, the cross takes on new meanings, depending on how you wear it:
- The "Rock and Rebellious" spirit: Paired with a leather biker jacket or a vintage T-shirt, a large hammered cross or one set with zirconia recalls the grunge and chic goth aesthetic.
- Protection and the Talisman: For many people, the cross remains a universal symbol of spiritual protection, a good-luck charm that watches over the person wearing it, independently of religious dogma.
- Aesthetic boldness: With its perfect, symmetrical geometry, the cross is visually striking. It draws the eye and frames a neckline like no other pendant.
3. How to wear cross jewelry in style
The secret to wearing a cross in 2026 is to break away from the overly literal look. Here are 3 ways to adopt it according to the codes of Maison de l'Amour.
Look 1: Layering
Don't leave your cross on its own! The ultimate fashion trick is to layer it. Wear a thin choker, add your cross necklace in the middle, and finish with a long chain. This blends the symbol into an ultra-trendy golden cascade.
Look 2: Pure Minimalism
Choose a very fine mini cross, worn close to the neck on bare skin or over a black turtleneck. The effect is mysterious, delicate, and absolutely chic. Ideal for those who want to try the trend gently.
Look 3: At the ear
Forget the necklace and try earrings instead! A small cross dangling from a gold hoop earring immediately adds plenty of character to the face.
4. Stainless Steel: Your everyday style ally
Whether you choose a bold or minimalist cross, the important thing is that it keeps its shine.
Our necklaces and earrings are crafted from water-resistant stainless steel. You can keep your jewelry on in the shower, at the pool, or while exercising: it will not tarnish and will retain its intense golden color, which brightens your complexion.
Express your style
Rock, minimalist, or bohemian... Discover how the cross adapts to your personality in our new collection.