Make Your Own 80s-Inspired Jewelry
The 1980s are back and looking better than ever! This memorable decade known for its major influences from pop culture and some of the best music, movies, TV shows and toys of all time is influencing jewelry trends in a big way.
The runways are gleaming with endless amounts of yellow gold in bold and impactful jewelry statements. There is everything from decadent necklaces and opulent bracelets to attention-getting brooches and stacks of rings. This big and bold jewelry trend is right in line with how the world is reemerging from isolation and the desire to feel glamorous and adorned.
If you're looking for '80s jewelry inspiration don't miss Lady Gaga's baubles in the movie House of Gucci. Remind yourself of the '80s feel by channeling the fashion icons of the time, such as Princess Diana, Cyndi Lauper, Madonna, and television shows such as Dynasty and Dallas.
Think large and colorful stones, large pearls, long beaded necklaces, huge earrings, and endless bangles. This was the era of costume jewelry and statement pieces, as avant-garde jewelry designers looked to new materials, colors and styles to create a big and bold effect.
Earrings
The earrings of the '80s were large, dramatic and over-the-top, with oversized hoops playing an important role as a wardrobe staple. Earrings were made of plastic and steel, faux pearls and gemstones.
Gold discs, plastic neon and tassels can be used in chandelier and mismatched earrings, along with geometric motifs including triangles and stars. Animal prints, crosses and crucifixes are also a great match for 1980s-inspired jewelry.
Design with hoops, filigree components, gemstones, pearls and sparkling fancy stones for statement-making earrings.
Necklaces
Large pendants, lots of beads, crystal and cut glass were popular elements of necklaces in the '80s. Create long ropes of imitation pearls in every color of the rainbow that hang in varying lengths around the neck. Gold-colored materials reign supreme in chains and findings.
Design with large pendants, gold-colored chain, cultured freshwater pearls, Preciosa crystal beads, Celestial Crystal® beads, Crystal Passions® pearls and beads and Czech glass beads.
Bracelets
There is no such thing as too many bangles! Heavily embellished bangles are popular, along with plastic and neon-hued resin and beaded bracelets. And of course, braided or macramé friendship bracelets and charm bracelets are always attention-getting.
Design with gold bracelet components and chain, chainmaille, Almost Instant Jewelry®, seed beads, charms and crystal flat backs.
Rings and Brooches
Cocktail rings and brooches are favored pieces in '80s-style jewelry. Bold and large, these pieces represented wealth and high fashion.
Design with Crystal Passions® fancy stones and beads, gold ring settings, rhinestones and seed beads for unstoppable glamour.
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