As our thoughts turn to cold weather dressing, jewelry has a starring role and sparkle is in the spotlight for this fall/winter season. The fall runways highlighted looks meant to send us fully back out into the world looking totally fabulous. Tailoring and elegance, with an eye to dressing for a return to the office and elevating one’s look are central themes of the season. And what elevates a look more than an extraordinary piece (or two or three) of vintage jewelry? Here are some of the top jewelry trends you’ll be seeing for the fall/winter 2023/24 season.
Pearls
If there is one thing that never goes out of style it’s pearls and these ocean treasures are having even more of a moment than usual, especially the classic pearl strand, which has evolved into an accessory that anyone can wear. Leather — especially in black — is ubiquitous for fall. Try pairing a leather jacket with pearls for a fresh take on both, or wear them in a more traditional way — peeking out of the collar of a blouse. There are plenty of office ready suits for the fall/winter season and pearls are always beautifully understated for work. There were also abundant punk references in this season’s styles and pearls are easily intertwined in these rebel looks, especially when mixed — in an artfully messy way — with other necklaces. Add any pearl necklace to one of the season’s many etheric slip dresses to create a boudoir perfect look.
The Brooch Is Back
Great news: The brooch is back. According to Vogue Magazine, “Brooches are quickly becoming the coolest piece of jewelry to have in your repertoire.” One fabulous brooch can become a signature piece that you can wear in as many ways as you can imagine. Pin a brooch to a hat, or beret for every day, or wear it in your upswept hair for a cocktail party. Wear a brooch on the lapel of a blazer or outerwear coat. A brooch will add another layer of sophistication to the meticulous tailoring and 1980s inspired power shoulder, pin-striped suits that are trending. You can also use a brooch as a way to hold an oversized wrap in place. Ties worn with slouchy jackets and big trousers were ubiquitous on the fall runways. Pin a brooch to the tie for a little unexpected shimmer and shine. If you don’t have a brooch in your jewelry box, it’s the prefect piece to buy for yourself as a special treat.
Bold Gold
Gold jewelry in all its glory is everywhere. It was found in clothes as well as jewelry, with large gold pieces an important accessory. Oversized gold chain link necklaces and bracelets are great everyday pieces, but most important are gold earrings for daywear. Chunky huggies, hoop and stud earrings in gleaming gold are all on trend. Big gold jewelry — the kind where you only need one piece — also works really well with the resurrected from the ‘90’s minimalist styles that are favored for the fall season. Camel and gray, along with black, were the most important neutrals for fall/winter and the warmth of yellow gold harmonizes with those hues. The one standout color for this season is red. It is featured by many designers as either an accent color, or more often worn monochromatically. Gold jewelry is stunning with this vibrant hue. While minimalist looks and sharp tailoring are one look for the season, there are still voluminous cocooning clothes and voluptuous gold jewelry is the perfect accompaniment.
Sparkle Everywhere
Why keep your best jewels for special occasions? This fall/winter season gives us permission to wear our blingiest jewels anytime, anywhere. That big diamond bracelet that’s been hiding in the back of your jewelry box can come out to play during the day, at work or for social events. Black is having another comeback moment (not that it ever really went away) and it’s always the perfect backdrop for jewelry. Wear a black pencil skirt with a black sweater or jacket and add a gemstone necklace for a pop of glam. Wear your diamond or colored gemstone jewelry with your sweater dresses and other knits, or anything denim and you’ll be the coolest and chicest person in the room.
This season showcases fashions that are moving us back into a daily life that includes time in the office and nights out on the town. Be ready with a vintage jewelry wardrobe that adds glamour, sophistication and a touch of playfulness to your personal style.
Featured image (top of page): Model photographed by Chalo Garcia, Unsplash.
First: Natural pearl strand, showcases 63 pearls with a 14-karat gold clasp adorned with an old mine diamond; Second: Gold flower brooch features diamonds weighing approximately 30-carats, and cabochon emerald weighing approximately 10-carats; Third: 18-karat yellow gold earrings, made in Italy, signed Bulgari, circa 1950s; Fourth: Gold and diamond link bracelet signed Van Cleef & Arpels.
Authored by Amber Michelle