Connell's chain: Normal People sends men's jewellery viral

By Rebecca Gonsalves on 7/5/2020

The BBC adaptation of Normal People has perked up lockdown for millions, not least thanks to 'Connell's chain' which makes jewellery for men look good again

Connell Waldron (Paul Mescal) and his famous chain relax in the pool

Whether it's a result of the lack of physical contact many are experiencing due to lockdown, or simply the fact that it's a beautifully wrought (and suitably steamy) production of a hit novel, the BBC adaptation of Sally Rooney's Normal People has certainly struck a chord with viewers around the world.

Connell (Paul Mescal), Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and the chain on holiday

And while we've all been mesmerised by the loaded, lingering glances between protagonists Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Connell (Paul Mescal) and the evocative portrayal of both the suffocating stillness of life in a small town and the experimental hedonism of the modern uni experience, there's a detail much finer than that which has truly caught the attention of the watching masses.

'Connell's chain' – the slim, short silver necklace that delicately clings to the neck of the male love interest – has become such an important part of the characterisation of its wearer that it has broken out as another star of the show. An impressive feat when you consider just how compelling the performances of the actual actors are.

Instagram account 'Connellschain' has amassed thousands of followers in days

An Instagram account dedicated to the chain had amassed 45,000 followers only five days after the first post, while fashion search engine Lyst reports that searches for chain necklaces had spiked 23% week-on-week since the launch of the TV series.

Costume designer Lorna Marie Mugan (Peaky Blinders, Small Island, Shadowdancer) has captured the way teenagers dress, from the relaxed and slightly bohemian style of Marianne's vintage wardrobe to the 'wrong-side-of-the-tracks' sports-casual of Connell's tracksuits. But the chain was a detail that Mescal himself picked out as part of his characterisation of Connell.

Marianne, Connell and the chain share a tender moment

'The chain is in the novel' Mugan told Irish radio presenter Ray D'Arcy, as reported by RTE. 'It's one small line. Marianne notices it on Connell and remembers it as something she saw at school. We knew it was there, we didn't think too much about it but Paul picked up on it straight away. After the first fitting, he said, 'can I get that chain?'

Asking yourself the same question? Read on for the Culture Whisper edit of chains for men. Culture Whisper is your curated guide to the best of London. We may earn a commission for items purchased through our retailer links.

1. Alighieri The Dante sterling-silver necklace, £155 – buy here. 2. Topman layered silver choker (pack of twwo), was £12.50, now £11.25 – buy here.