Jewelry-Making Articles

Style Snapshot: Top 5 Jewelry Trends for the 2016 Holiday Season

by by Susanne Kathol, Exclusively for Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®

Fashion designers are channeling a dark and dreamy Victorian-inspired vibe this holiday season--think chokers, stacks of long chains and pearls interlaced with feminine bows, lace and industrial elements such as spikes and metal hardware. The rich texture of velvet combines with patent leather and mixed metals for sizzling hot multilayered necklace combinations, stately shoulder-length earrings, multi-strand bracelets and stackable rings. Here are the Top 5 Trends for the upcoming holiday season:

Style Snapshot: Top 5 Jewelry Trends for the 2016 Holiday Season

1. Chains and Chokers
Celebrations are calling for stackable layers of large-link chain necklaces and chokers worn together for a major statement. There is an industrial influence to jewelry as seen in spikes and metal hardware such as nuts and bolts. Large gemstone beads and Swarovski® Crystal fancy stones steal the stage for a major presentation. Long chain tassel necklaces and shoulder-duster chain earrings elongate the silhouette for a flattering finish.

2. Pearls and Pendants
Pearls are adding a sophisticated punch to holiday affairs in all different sizes and shades, including White Lotus™ cultured freshwater pearls, glass pearls and Swarovski crystal pearls. Worn in multiple layers around the neck or on the arm, these classy pieces combine with collar and choker-style necklaces for a major impact. Jewelry is embellished with bows, lace, feathers, marcasite findings and Filigree components for a feminine, vintage-inspired feel. Pendants are bigger and brighter than ever, in attention-getting gemstones, sparkling crystals, long tassels and stunning crosses.

3. Kitschy Xmas
As holiday-themed sweaters continue to be the rage for "ugly sweater parties" and holiday events, jewelry is taking on a kitschy feel as well. Show holiday spirit with fun and funky holiday motifs such as Christmas tree pins, reindeer earrings and holiday-themed charm bracelets and necklaces. Design with lampworked glass beads, brooch components, rhinestone chatons, Dione® beads and sparkling Swarovski crystal beads for festive fashion.

4. Interchangeable Jewelry
Interchangeable jewelry allows for creative mix and matching that takes one look and stretches it to many. Discover the Dione Add A Bead System for limitless options for custom looks. Pendants with lobster claw clasps offer the possibility of many different pieces in one, as they are simple to take on and off.

5. Clutches and Ear Cuffs
The mini-bag trend marches in with embellished clutches that stand out more than ever. Swarovski flat back crystals offer a large embellishment to these small accessories. Ear cuffs, jackets and crawlers offer an attention-getting way to dress up any holiday look and are highlighted by wearing hair up or behind the ears.