Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Sequins, Pearls and Art Deco...oh my!!


These things can only mean one thing…

The Great Gatsby hits theatres in a few days!  The buzz and excitement around this year’s highly anticipated classic novel on the silver screen has caused a resurgence of the era’s quintessential fashion trends. 
Fashion and jewelry of the time can be summarized in a few basic terms – it sparkles, it shines, and there was plenty of it (think Coco Chanel and 1920s Tiffany & Co.).

The Art Deco movement played a significant role in changing the shape of jewelry and accessory design during this time.  Geometric patterns and symmetry adorn bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches, headpieces and a plethora of other accessories.  Jewelry consisted of basic square, circle, and triangle shapes.  Diamonds and pearls were staples of 1920s era jewelry but the traditional standards began to morph as the decade roared on.   

Innovations in modern travel also drove the direction of jewelry during the time. The ability to travel far and away made the exotic more tangible.  Along with the geometric inspiration, Egyptian influences played right into the symmetry of Art Deco.  The utilization of popular Egyptian symbols displayed global influences of the time.  Bright colors such as blue, red, and green, stones that had never before been seen, and themes and motifs found across the world made their way into 1920s jewelry. 

The evolution of plastic production changed jewelry forever allowing everyone to have access to stylish new accessories.  Products could be mass produced in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes.  Jewelry was now available for every need and for every person.

Necklaces were long, chandelier earrings were a favorite, and the more gold bangles the better.  The 1920s opened the door for jewelry, not only as an accessory, but as a statement.

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