Americana Accessories

Showing patriotic pride isn't reserved just for Memorial Day or the 4th of July. Tribute the red, white and blue any day by wearing jewelry inspired by Old Glory. Americana accessories have been on the rise, especially in a culture where ''Made in the USA'' carries extra clout for promoting high-quality handcrafted goods and improving our national economy.

What is Americana? Defined as artifacts, style or collections related to the geography, folklore and history or the cultural heritage of the U.S., Americana materials include all media such as music, artwork, home décor, jewelry, fashion clothing and more. It is a nationalist nostalgia of this still-budding nation through creative expression.

Americana is often portrayed with stars and stripes in bold formations, not just in the flag shape—though this image is still a popular motif. Bright red, white and blue are often evened out with rustic tones for a "distressed" or "primitive" look that is especially attractive in the market of handmade items. Dangles, frayed ends and fringe are fun ways to capture this look in jewelry. Some popular words or phrases include, "Liberty," "God Bless America," "United We Stand," "Born Free," "Stars and Stripes Forever" and others.

Common images found in conjunction with the Americana color scheme include hearts, checkered picnic-blanket, eagles, skyline monuments such as Lady Liberty, the Liberty Bell or vintage brand logos such as Coca-Cola®, Indian Motorcycles® and original American pick-up manufacturers. Think drive-in theaters or diners with malt shakes and juke boxes. Americana also includes the World War eras with images of soldiers, pin-up girls and icons such as Uncle Sam or Rosie the Riveter.

From amber waves of grain to purple mountain majesties, pledge allegiance to the American spirit and design or accessorize accordingly to reap the style benefits of the land of the free and home of the brave.