KAREN COLLINS (STYLED BY SASA THOMANN)
What does jewelry look like in the new decade? In the past few years, we saw jewelry scale back: Massive statement necklaces from Gossip Girl’s heyday were replaced by layered chains and charms, and we traded in gaudy earrings for a constellation of stud piercings. Surprisingly, we’re swinging back in the oversized, over-bedazzled, but not-so-overdone direction. At least that’s what we found out when we tapped two retail experts from Bloomingdales and Net-A-Porter to get a better feel for which 2020 jewelry trends are worth buying into in. Read on for their secret to accessorizing like a pro, here.
Chain Links
Chain link jewelry has been in the spotlight for some time now, but this year the trend is even bigger, both figuratively and literally. “The chain link necklace or bracelet continues to be important for 2020,” says Erica Russo, vice president and fashion director of accessories and beauty at Bloomingdales. “We love them thin and layered at various lengths, or as a singular bracelet that’s big and bold.”
Based on the spring runways alone—where we saw it at Bottega Veneta, Brandon Maxwell, and Zimmermann—we foresee 2020 as the year of the chain. You can try the trend two different ways: layer pieces together for a chic, messy neck, or opt for a singular heavy-duty statement pieces.
Shop the Chain Trend
Heirloom-Inspired Jewelry
According to Libby Page, senior fashion market editor at Net-A-Porter, 2020 is the year for heirlooms, whether you raid your grandma’s jewelry box or not. “Jewelry is all about personality and pieces with emotion that hold a personal touch,” she says. “Family heirlooms are big this year—from a locket or a family bracelet to your Dad’s vintage chain necklace.”
Of course, not all of us have pieces we can nab from a family member. Lucky for us, jewelry designers are influenced by vintage pieces, with “antique” jewelry making their way to both runways and retailers. “Heritage will be the source of inspiration for designers this year,” says Page. She references “Parisian jewelry designer Lauren Rubinski (who is launching her new namesake label this spring), who instigated this in a luxury, yet thoughtful, way.” From customizable signet rings to heart-shaped lockets, this is an easy trend for everyone to partake in.
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Irregular Oversized Hoops
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Hoops resurfaced over the past couple of seasons—raise your hand if you’re currently wearing a pair—but Russo claims 2020 will see styles of larger proportions take the lead. “They add both simplicity and drama to any outfit,” she says. These amped-up shapes are the perfect addition to any outfit, whether you’re wearing jeans and a T-shirt or getting dressed for a formal affair.
These aren’t your daily hoops, either. We prefer the statement-makers courtesy of Proenza Schouler and Balenciaga, who are both offering chunky double hoops and large knotted styles. It’s the perfect opportunity to experiment with updated silhouettes on the classic circular earrings you already have sitting on your dresser.
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Jeweled Collar Necklaces
The statement necklace is finally making a comeback, particularly ones that are bejeweled and bedazzled. Don’t be scared tough, these are far from the Serena van der Woodsen baubles. “From diamonds to precious gems, the collar necklace is seeing a bold resurgence,” Russo says. “Wear it with your favorite everyday look, or to your own special ‘red-carpet’ worthy moment.”
Not all of us can reasonably shop for a neckline full of diamonds. You can fawn over Gucci and Anna Sui’s spring 2020 runways for inspiration, but there are plenty of costume and demi-fine styles that won’t make our wallets cry. When in doubt, J.Crew’s jewelry line is our go-to for that bedazzled look on a budget.
Shop the Jeweled Collar Trend
