Jewellery can make or break an outfit. The simplest or most basic ensemble can be lifted out of drudgery by accessorising cleverly. Yet, as with all things fashion, it can prove to be a minefield. Too much of it and you risk losing all credibility. Too little and no one will notice anyway. So, to help you maneuver your way through the next few months here are five trends worth knowing for 2021.
80s neon
As a child of the 80s I’m a grand fan of all things neon. 2021 is the year of popping that fluorescence in your accessories. Keep your outfit simple and add earrings, a clutch or a cuff with a burst of hot pink, lime green or glowy orange. Accessorising with a pop of colour against a block-coloured outfit is not a new trick. It’s a classic styling hack. So, this needn’t be just for 2021. Do it always.
Life’s a bead
All that escapism and fantasy on the runways for Spring 21 did not stop at clothes. They most certainly extended to jewellery. Think colourful beads of all shapes and all sizes, worn alone or coupled with sea shells. Adorn your neck, wrists, waist or hair with colourful beads. Even better if you can add charms to your jewellery.
Mismatch or singular – choose wisely
If you’re prone to losing things this is a great trend for you. Mismatched earrings are now a thing. So, if you’ve long lost one of a pair of earrings but held on to the other you can make this happen. The same is true of singular earrings. Lost one? Wear the other. Fendi, Preen and Acne Studios are just a few who went bold with just one earring.
Cuff it
Who’d have guessed it? Cuffs are back. Stand still long enough and fashion just comes right back to where it started. Yes, large, oversized statement cuffs are back with a vengeance. Wear them on both wrists or one but either way – the bigger the better. Whilst I’m not a fan of brandishing logos, the runways were filled with logo cuffs. So, if you’re that way inclined go ahead and jump on the bandwagon.
Go for gold
Remember the chunky gold chains 80s rappers wore with huge medallions? Well, they’re back. To be fair this has been around for a few seasons now. I personally do love a chunky gold link chain to light up a garment. Regardless of how it appears or sounds, a big gold necklace can still be understated. Try not to follow this trend too literally. Opt for smaller link chains as opposed to Flava Flav style monstrosities.
The Sea The Sea
I saved the best till last. Pearls; the epitome of classic style and elegance is now on trend. Pearls are my birthstone and I adore them. I mean they grow inside a beautiful shell, in complete darkness, under the sea but reflect like the moon on land. Could anything be more magical? I think not. Chanel (of course), Erdem, Simone Rocha all embellished their creations with pearl jewellery updated for 2021. So wear them around your neck, on your fingers, around your wrists and ears. I mean go forth and shine bright like the full moon.