The Reign of Costume Jewelry

The last five years has seen a democratization of sorts of fashion.  Bloggers have invaded the front rows of fashion week, as well as the list of most coveted wardrobes.  Ordinary but oh so stylish civilians have been captured on the streets and their photos published in high fashion magazines.  Heck, even a Japanese hobo has become a fashion icon! Then there is the DIY movement that allows even the stylish paupers to wear their own versions of Proenza Schouler or Burberry!  In short, shallow pockets has never been less of a detriment to great style as it is now.  And jewelry is not an exception.

Welcome the REIGN of costume jewelry.

In the Academy Award-nominated film, Black Swan, there is a scene where Nina's (Natalie Portman) mother asks her where she got her earrings.  She answers that it's fake, and her mom reacts by saying, "You could've fooled me."

The truth is, it hardly matters anymore whether a piece of jewelry is authentic or costume (unless if it's an engagement ring).  There are so many reasons to patronize costume jewelry--not only is it more affordable, but you also have more options.  There are a variety of styles and levels of craftsmanship that will suit your needs--just check out the department store, bazaars, and even handicraft collections such as that of Palamuti. And if you fall in love with ten different necklaces, why, YOU CAN BUY THEM ALL!!!  You can mix and match the real with the costume jewelry, or you can even dare to layer all your costume jewelry at once.  The trick is really choosing great design and good quality.  Extra points for costume jewelry because you don't have to be on your guard all the time, counting your diamonds and checking if both earrings are still in place.  This is great for traveling too

If you need further proof, here's an excerpt from Celine Lopez' article "Costume Jewelry is the New Icing".

"The Duchess of Windsor and Coco Chanel never made pretentious claims when it came to their baubles. The more ornate, the more bijoux it is, thus the pieces once reserved for circus acts have entered hallowed moneyed circles. Even Jackie Kennedy-Onassis admitted that her trademark triple strand pearls didn’t really come from the ocean....

At the end, bijoux is all about having fun. It need not be of the overly ornate fashions of yesteryear. Discreet jewelry design is back and the more dainty the better. "

So go ahead, indulge in a little bit of Palamuti.  Your inner style icon, and your wallet, will thank you.