Considering the past year was defined by an endless rotation of sweats and matching sets, it’s perhaps unsurprising that jewellery became our sartorial saving grace. From elevating zoom calls with that favourite pair of gold hoops to the careful curation of your rings, bracelets and necklaces forming the new definition of getting dressed for the day, jewellery has well and truly made its mark.
But while we’ve returned to the world at last—at least, for the most part—our jewellery has yet to take a back seat. Instead, it’s found new life and energy in a form of emerging trends inspired by everything from our time at home to the entertainment that lifted our spirits.
Below, the six jewellery trends to look out for in 2021.
Regency Pearls
Gone are the days of understated and barely-there pearls, thanks to the likes of a recent Regency-era drama (hello, Bridgerton!). Since devouring the viral Netflix series, you may have noticed a strange urge to up the ante when it comes to your jewellery game—especially considering it could help you land your very own Duke of Hastings. The ladies of Bridgerton wear extravagant gowns matched with equally as striking tiaras, earrings and bracelets—all adorned with show-stopping pearls, fit for a royal. From statement chokers to colourful surrounding gems, there are plenty of ways to get on board this trend.
Couple Up
If Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik’s latest matching moment is anything to go by, couple jewellery is set to have a major moment in 2021. This week in NYC, Zigi twinned in Thai label PATTARAPHAN’s Double Pressure earring—only, one in gold and one in silver, to suit their personal styles. It’s not the first time the couple has been caught wearing matching pieces, sporting the same evil eye bracelet ahead of the arrival of their first child last year. Rumour has it, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are also firm fans of twin fashion moments, sharing photos of themselves wearing the same bracelet prior to their engagement. It’s a welcome trend too, considering that designers are creating collections that aren’t defined by gender, and pushed forward by jewellery advocates Harry Styles and Frank Ocean.
Go Simple
While chunky gold chains have reigned supreme lately, prepare your sartorial calendar for daintier variations. Sparked by Normal People’s Connell, and quickly adopted by real-life counterpart Paul Mescal, the trend has only heightened since Sally Rooney’s steamy creation was brought to life onscreen. Now, the simple accessory is becoming a must-have item, adding a sleek, timeless elevation to any look.
Dainty Anklets
Anklets are back! Again! The ’90s staple, which regularly rears its fashionable head from time to time, is once again becoming a lust-worthy staple in our jewellery rotations—and thankfully, it’s one of the easiest and foolproof trends to pull off. Whether it be colourful beads or statement pearls à la Emma Stone on the red carpet, anklets are quickly becoming a favourite among the style set. If you’re not too convinced considering the transition into cooler weather, take cues from Caroline Daur, who expertly pairs her anklet over stockings.
Body, Ody, Ody
The female form may have overtaken our homes in everything from prints to vases during lockdown, but it’s about to take over our jewellery collections too. Celeb-loved homewares designer Anissa Kermiche has taken her cult Love Handle vase to the sparkling realm of jewellery, creating necklaces, earrings and bracelets, all adorned with her brand’s signature derrière. Kermiche also isn’t the only one, with the female form having sparked inspiration aplenty for designers over the years.
Eccentric Rings
Thanks to the colourful, quirky creations from jewellers such as La Manso, Beepy Bella and Blobb—which have quickly been snapped up by Miley Cyrus, Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa and more—eccentric rings have become a fun addition to our wardrobes. Perhaps as a means to find some bright and colourful ways to decorate ourselves following a year of wearing the same sweatpants, these eccentric designs present themselves as just that.