If you ask me what the optimal amount of sparkle one should wear, I'd say it's something on the far end of the spectrum, drenched in them—right where these looks of Cher, Rihanna, and Dolly Parton live.
One of the biggest enablers of this effect is, of course, rhinestones. Some reasons have been particularly directing my attention to this style of adornment recently.
During the Pride March in New York, I was walking around the Meatpacking District when I came across the photo exhibit called Streets, Sex, and Survival. It featured images that depicted the region during the 80s and 90s very rawly. One of the images was particularly amazing—here's a snapshot of the zine available at the event, with a photo by Jill Freedman.
In it, a person with a beard, clothes usually assigned to different genders, mixed, and most importantly, a bold and beautiful rhinestone set. Just as was mentioned in the last issue about the single earring, the rhinestone is also a strong tool for self-expression. Shine and glitter always meant exuberance, and rhinestone is the easiest embodiment of it.
In an open sense, this type of faux gem made of glass or rock crystal has been used for centuries because of its ability to mimic brilliant precious stones. Especially attractive during times of crisis, post-war, post-pandemic. It also contemplated minorities who did not have purchasing power for natural gems. In those moments, the shine is proportional to the thirst for hope and joy.
This type of jewelry element has marked notable trends: In the Art Deco era, they harmonized with the geometric flair. Hollywood in the 1950s often saw stars like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn in studded chokers and hair ornaments (sometimes diamonds, sometimes rhinestones). The 1960s embraced rhinestones to accent futuristic designs, while the opulent 1980s (think Madonna) celebrated excess through layered necklaces and belts. The early 2000s reintroduced them in a flashy styling, thanks to Paris Hilton and friends.
Sidenote, Modern rhinestones we're familiar with originated in the 18th century, when Alsatian jeweler Georg Friedrich Strass developed a method to imitate the sparkle of diamonds by coating the back of glass crystals with a metal powder. Rhinestone, strass, crystal, faux diamonds: all popular names for the same thing.
In the contemporary scene, the versatility of these simulated gems is still very much in. They have an audience and occasion of their own. They are lightweight and, most of all, affordable. This allows for more creative freedom. Big, bold, beautiful pieces.
Here is my point of view: jewelry has to be clear and conscious about the material it is made of, but above all, jewelry is aesthetic and emotional. It is a cultural item, it is an adornment. It is affection, joy and pleasure.
So the point is to have fun while taking this kind of material seriously too.
If you have sensitive skin like I do:
As the summer heat fades and the milder weather arrives, you're likely to perspire less. This makes it more convenient to adorn yourself with jewelry that isn't crafted in precious metals like gold and silver (often, these imitation gemstones are set in silver or gold-filled settings that lose layers over time). Fall is super welcoming for wearing larger jewelry pieces as the clothing isn't as bulky and restrictive yet, allowing your accessories to stand out without pulling the treads of our Winter sweaters.
Now, let me show you the ones I've been wearing or wish I had. Following the styling of the photo taken by Freedman, the focus is on the ears.
A clean giant
The Mesmera clip-on earring is part of the first collection that was signed by the creative director Giovanna Engelbert for Swarovski. She is a genius, brilliant. I didn't think I would buy something from the brand before it. This clip-on earring looks like a rhinestone that has been scaled up: an intriguing yet extremely simple cut crystal.
I initially wore it as "something extra" in a cocktail look with hair tied up, but I've been deeply enjoying wearing it as pictured, in a day-to-day look, jeans and a t-shirt.
Easy commitment
This piece is from CompletedWorks, a London-based brand that I can safely say I would wear everything.
The aesthetic proposal brings novelty but with a super digestible beauty. It is worth mentioning that there is greater rigor in the materials used: made with 14kt white gold-plated recycled sterling silver. Plus, it has a super attractive price point.
A step further
This three-dimensional creation by the brand Area renewed the idea of hoops once again. This assembly of bugle beads reminds me a lot of the embroidered skirts from a recent Prada collection. A touch of exquisite handcrafting.
Life of the party
Eduardo Caires is one of the first names I remember seeing taking rhinestones very seriously, so much so that it's the thread that ties all of his creations together. Everything he creates is a work of art, the center of the look that pulls everything around with its colossal magnitude. Rhinestones for a rockstar.
Extra-long pendant
In the images: Chanel twice, then Isabel Marant and Balmain. I love them, but I haven't found the one yet. I'm on the hunt for an earring of this style: simple, easy, and that lengthens the neck. While the Chanel one has the closest in design, the factors of price and chosen metals are too far apart for me. I will keep you all updated.
Something sweet
Before I go, I leave you with this cuteness. Supersmalls proposes jewelry as child's play, and (just like Barbie) I would enjoy playing/wearing it as an adult just as much.
Thank you for reading, enjoy your week!
Signing off, with love,
Ísis