The cross is a recognizable symbol of not just fashion, but an expression of Christian faith. Lately, however, cross pendants are becoming more and more prominent in the public eye. Chappell Roan brought attention to the accessory when she wore an oversized cross pendant at 2024’s MTV Video Music Awards. “The necklace, aside from sitting more perfectly than the other 100 I had on hand, adds to the historical realism of the outfit,” Genesis Webb, Roan’s stylist, said in an interview. “It completed the world that we were trying to build.” She later said, “The iconography is classically beautiful, and it’s also rooted in a sense of trust to be protected by something you believe in.” Camila Cabello also wore layered crosses by Loree Rodkin that same night. Elle reported that interest in cross pendants has increased on Etsy. Influencer Lilly Sisto, who is also a Christian, stated the appeal of cross pendants goes beyond religious faith. “Of course, it’s a part of my religion, but I also think they are so beyond chic to wear. It can be a fashion statement; you don’t need to be religious to wear one.”

To others, their cross necklaces are more than just a fashion statement. US Attorney General Pam Bondi stated her cross necklaces express her “strong Christian” faith. “My faith is very important to me. It is what gets me through each day,” she said. White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, has also been seen wearing prominent crosses. Leavitt has referred to the cross as “the perfect accessory to any outfit,” and that she wears it “because it serves as a reminder of the strength that can only be found through faith.” It’s not a trend limited to Republicans either. Democrat Representative Hakeem Jeffries Hakeem of New York wore a large cross necklace during a protest against the GOP budget. Robert Covolo, who has published a book about Christianity and fashion, discussed the ranging meanings of the symbol to its wearers. “They have an official meaning but people bring their own meaning, which is where symbols really get their power,” he said.

Of course, not everyone is so eager to see the cross embraced just for fashion’s sake. Riley White, a content creator in Birmingham, AL, stated she began wearing crosses to “share Christian values and love.” But she isn’t so sure about people in the public eye wearing crosses. “I like to see the cross worn by people who have Christian values and who treat people how the Bible tells us to,” she said. “It can be hard seeing people wear a cross and hearing how they speak about people in a way that doesn’t necessarily align with Christian values.”