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 | | It’s official – colour is back! | | |
Thankfully fashion is cyclical in nature so whatever is out one season will doubtless return to favour a couple of years down the line. However, it has taken a while for bright colours to make a real comeback after a decade characterised by restrained tones and dominated by oceans of grey and beige. The 2003 and 2004 seasons have seen colours creep back into a corner of most women’s wardrobes and this slow start is expected to explode into vibrant life in coming seasons. For those who are one step ahead of the pack, the most obvious way to set colourful accents in an outfit is with a piece of stylish jewellery. The overarching theme for this summer’s accessories is bright colour and bold designs that will hopefully tempt this year’s frankly timid sun out from wherever it has been hiding. |
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| In terms of the weather, it has been a disappointing summer so far in northern Europe, certainly when compared to the relentless heatwave that was summer 2003. It is perhaps ironic that colour should make its comeback against such a rain-drenched setting. “Don’t worry!” is the response of jewellery designers, who have striven to recreate the hues of summer in their new collections. Gold clearly features heavily, representing the sun in all its dazzling glory. Metals of all kinds are highly burnished for a glittery effect and are complemented with sparkling jewels or brightly coloured enamels. Designs are correspondingly bold and take nature in all its colourful variety as inspiration. |
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A drop of sun
One of the signature looks that probably says summer 2004 more than any other style is the over-sized pendant. Very large pendants make an ideal accompaniment to the 60s-inspired floral dresses that are popular this summer. This style can be worn by any age group and the luxury interpretations to be found in the top end of the market will soon be imitated by suppliers in the cut price sector. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold designs, in fact the bolder the better. There really are no rules, but bigger is definitely what is looked for here. |
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Cascading earrings
That rule applies equally to earrings where the chandelier style is the look to be aiming for. Earrings have been getting longer and longer over the past couple of seasons and the trend shows no sign of ending. The beaded drop style is great for both day and evening and is often combined with a vintage or antique look. The beaded cascades are available in every possible stone from pearl to turquoise to Venetian glass and are well worth keeping an eye out for. |
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Art imitates life
Natural looking, ethnic-inspired jewellery is another big look for this summer that goes well with the rustic textures of cotton and linen that feature widely in the summer clothes collections. Another nature inspired look can be seen in brooches and charms depicting turtles, fish, butterflies, seashells, dragonflies and lizards. These designs test the jewellery makers’ skills to the limit and are certain to provide an impressive focal point to any outfit. |
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Anything goes
Fashion in the noughties is far more fluid than in previous decades with various different looks co-existing happily alongside each other. As we put more distance between ourselves and previous decades there is a growing trend to revivalism. Many designers are raiding the design treasure chests that were the 60s, 70s and even the 80s, although it will be a brave woman who digs her old leggings out of the cupboard again to team them with this season’s jewelled heels. Nevertheless, the 80s are one of the main inspirations behind the return of colour. However, one of the biggest trends that is just beginning to emerge is a revival of 50s style as the backlash against bare midriffs and low rise jeans kicks in at last. |
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Hollywood retro
As usual it is Hollywood that is leading the way and quite a few A-list celebrities have been sporting 50s style dresses to high profile premieres and events in recent months. The look could also be seen in this spring’s romantic comedy “Down with Love”, which sought to recapture the glamour of 50s icons Doris Day and Rock Hudson. Again this is a look that can be interpreted in many ways and can be tailored to suit women of all ages. Matching jewellery is prettily feminine and softer colours work well with the feminine shapes. The classic string of pearls is the key 50s accessory but it is being updated in many ways, not least in the colours chosen. Retro chic is certain to be around for a while so opting for classic designs is never a bad choice |
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Pick and mix
The great advantage of the eclecticism of noughties trends is that pretty much anything is allowed. There is much more variety available in the market while it is fairly easy to spot the few distinct trends around. Then, simply have some fun following them. And don’t worry about picking a few high fashion items from this season’s must have looks, they are bound to come back into favour again at some stage.
Claire Jackson |
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© September 2010 - European Publications GmbH
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