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Spring
and Summer 2006 Fashion Forecast
For
the moderately priced jewelry market, we continue to see a
dominance by organic themes. Shell,
wood
and pearls
are sure to continue to be strong all the way through this
summer, so don't be shy when placing order because this one's
got legs. Look for bigger, chunkier, and even gaudy styles
that make a statement.
Beyond
these general classifications, there are specifics to be on
the lookout for. Discs
and naturally
shaped pendants and charms with symbols or sayings are
hot. The ring shape as a pendant, with or without engraving
is everywhere. There are lots of horseshoes to tie into the
trendy Western accessories theme of cowboy hats, and briolette
shaped gemstones done in multiples as pendants or earrings.
Important
sub-themes going forward are tassels, long, chunky chain,
layered necklaces, crochet and macramÈ, and believe
it or not, nautical themes like anchors. The mix is a combination
of 80's glitz and early 70's hippie that works sometimes but
often comes together in a look that will make many ask "what
was I thinking" in about 5 years.
Crochet
beads and frayed ribbon accents on necklaces and bracelets
add a soft and ladylike look when done cleanly. Multiple necklaces
work nicely as long as it doesn't end up looking like a prosthetic
device. The engraved saying is something that is simple but
lends a touch of soulful detail. Look for this as a strong
undercurrent at indiasilver.com
after January. We have been working on our own original designs.
Honestly,
a lot of the designs I've seen going forward, including the
whole anchor thing, are a bit much. Some designers are showing
necklaces that look like the result of a 70's craft class
gone horribly wrong. Without pointing too many fingers, trendsetters
like Robert Rose and R J Graziano are a bit overboard in their
spring 2006 collections with gaudy gold anchor pendants and
jumbled necklaces that look more like an ox yoke than an adornment.
On the
other hand, companies like Stephan
& Co., and Nine
West seem to get it. They incorporate the trends like
organic materials, or crochet bead necklaces with simplicity
and tastefulness. Me
and Ro especially showcase how nicely done the whole engraving
theme can be done.
As for
handbags, look for the trend toward larger bags to continue.
Consumers seem to like the idea of a functional carryall.
Metallics continue to be strong, as well as tassels, grommets,
hardware and "purse charms." The hobo is the most
popular shape now and into summer. Look for bucket and satchel
shapes to gain in popularity. Vintage frames, beaded and sequin
details, and Western leather styles all have a place going
forward. There is no classification that encompasses the overall
trend, rather it is a conglomeration of the bold-gaudy, the
ladylike and dainty, and the hippy/bohemian look.
Again,
beware of over-the-top styles with excessive hardware, tassels,
etc. since these may tend to end up in the markdown bin when
the wind blows a different way.
(This
article written by Mike McGinnis and published originally
on indiasilver.com.
We allow republication provided the piece is copied in its
entirety with links and attribution.)
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