Body Chain
Body chains redefine traditional jewelry, rising above typical pieces such as necklaces, bracelets, anklets, earrings, rings, and belts. These avant-garde accessories empower fashion enthusiasts to boldly accentuate specific parts of their bodies. From dainty chains to large statement pieces, these are seen on the red carpet and in everyday streetwear.
While the term "body chain" implies a focus on chains, it's important to note that not all jewelry within this category features chain elements. Some designs incorporate leather, colorful cording, metal or gemstone links and other materials instead.
In contrast to traditional statement necklaces, body chain distributes the weight of larger jewelry designs, alleviating strain on the neck. This design approach makes the style more accessible for a broader demographic.
"X" and "I" Style Torso Chains
”X” and “I” style body chain has been seen on trendsetters such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Georgia May Jagger, Kim Kardashian, Hailey Bieber and others. Notably, Rihanna wore body chains to showcase her baby bump, demonstrating that this is a great style for maternity jewelry.
Both “X” and “I” styles run down the torso and are especially effective when designed with fine chain, tiny links or sparkling cupchain. The "X" style doesn't require closures, although they can be added to personalize chain size for off-the-rack designs. The "I" style goes around the neck and waist, so closures are necessary in both areas, especially if the waist length will be passing through belt loops.
Torso body chain offers a wide range of variation, including the ladder front, web or net and bib-style. Some designers have put discreet lobster claw clasps at the focal components in "X" styles, so the focal can be changed out to suit the wearer's mood—plated steel components for daytime and glimmering Crystal Passions® components for the evening.
Shoulders, Legs, Upper Arms and More
The shoulder armor style of body chain has gained popularity in evening wear, especially when paired with strapless gowns, shirts or bustiers. This trend extends to bridal fashion, with strapless wedding gowns now being complemented by glittering nets of crystals draped over the bride's shoulders.
Symmetrical styles are common for shoulder armor, although single-shoulder or asymmetrical versions are catching on.
Arm body chains, like armbands of military uniforms, are worn around the upper arm. Meanwhile, legs are being decorated from shin to thigh with draped and dangled chain, feet are being festooned with beads and sparkles, and bracelets have left their sedate circles around wrists to adorn the backs of hands with glittering jewelry. No limb is being left unadorned in this trend. Include some Crystal Passions crystal or Preciosa MAXIMA beads, and they'll have all the dazzle they crave.
Waistlets
Waist jewelry is a popular way to embellish your curves. Simply use unfinished chain, add a clasp and embellish with charms for a decorative appeal. Personalize waistlets with themed charms and gemstone beads.
Not Just for Summer
While body chains are certainly popular summer wear, they also look incredibly stylish during autumn and winter. Bright metal body chain worn over a slim-fitting turtleneck gives an otherwise staid outfit a little dash of the unexpected. Finer chain styles are ideal over shell blouses worn under suit jackets, so it can even go to work and look both respectable and daring.
Shop for Your Materials Here:
Have a question regarding this project? Email Customer Service.
Copyright Permissions
All works of authorship (articles, videos, tutorials and other creative works) are from the Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® Collection, and permission to copy is granted for non-commercial educational purposes only. All other reproduction requires written permission. For more information, please email copyrightpermission@firemtn.com.