From Daisy Edgar-Jones’s shimmering Boucheron necklace worn backwards at Cannes to Margot Robbie’s sculptural diamond back harness in London, the red carpet has been quietly rewriting how jewellery is worn. Even emerging style voices like Kalyani Priyadarshan and global pop stars such as Sabrina Carpenter are embracing the same shift.Together, these moments signal the rise of the “backlace” or “reverse necklace”. The backlace may feel like a modern obsession, but its roots go back decades. One of the earliest champions of the look was Princess Diana, who famously wore pearl strands draped elegantly down her back.Today, the trend has found a new generation of admirers. At the Fjord screening during Cannes Film Festival, Daisy Edgar-Jones delivered one such moment in a shimmering Balenciaga gown. It wasn’t just the silhouette that drew attention but her diamond necklace worn backwards. Cascading down her exposed back, the jewel transformed the open back into the focal point of the ensemble, reinforcing the rise of the backlace as a red-carpet signature.Janhvi Kapoorin an Anamika Khanna creation paired with a custom back chain by Aurus JewelsThe fascination has been building steadily. At Cannes last year, Janhvi Kapoor wore a mint green Anamika Khanna creation paired with a custom back chain by Aurus Jewels; while Ariana Greenblatt styled layered Chopard necklaces down the back of her ivory Cong Tri gown. Margot Robbie also embraced the trend in London, wearing a crystal-embellished outfit with a diamond back harness that tied the dress together.Margot Robbie attends the premiere of “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” in London, Britain, September 11, 2025. REUTERS/Maja SmiejkowskaBeyond the red carpet, the backlace trend is expanding into everyday fashion. From wedding wear to cocktail dressing, backless silhouettes are evolving across gowns, blouses and jumpsuits. Rachit Malhotra, director of Femina Plus Salon and Rachit Lavanya Makeovers, notes the shift: “Right from traditional to western, backless numbers are fast becoming a fashion statement. It’s not just about revealing skin — it’s about how you style it.” He adds that sleek buns, bubble ponytails and lifted hairstyles remain favourites, often paired with shimmer or glitter makeup along the back. “Just like we contour the face, we now do makeup for the back. It’s the new beauty canvas,” he says.Ariana Greenblatt in shiny back chainsVandana M Jagwani, founder of Vandals and creative director at Mahesh Notandass, champions versatile designs. “We design necklaces that are made to be seen — diamond tennis in the front, statement chain in the back. One piece, multiple moods,” she says.Gautam Soni, managing director at The House of MBJ, sees the backlace as a revival of ancient Indian jewellery traditions. “In royal times, adornment wasn’t limited to the front. The backlace is a graceful nod to that philosophy, marrying heritage with modern elegance. It’s not just a trend; it’s timeless,” he explains.Whether it’s through elaborate jewels, delicate tattoos or shimmering makeup, the back has emerged as fashion’s most unexpected focal point. From Cannes to closets across the globe, the backlace trend is redefining glamour — one statement at a time.