Bring in the Bling

CEBU, Philippines - With financial powerhouses like Goldman Sachs and Meryll Lynch going down the drain just as 2009 opened, the economic downturn and not to mention the recent swine flu scare have definitely set this year on a gloomier mood than normal. Instead of pegging our feel on fashion on the gloom and doom of the end of this decade, the fashion world can definitely make do by going big and bold in order to cheer everyone up.

When it comes to accessories, 2009 is definitely all about outrageous statement jewelry worn with equally attention-catching prints and cuts. This year is all about turning heads and eliciting shocks from the everyday, average man on the street. To put it simply, this year is all about wearing big, chunky statement blings like a plain white T-shirt.

Although statement jewelry may come in all imaginable (and unimaginable) shapes and sizes as of late, according to Tania Braukamper of Fashionising, this year’s statement pieces can simply be boxed up into those that were gleaned from geometric inspirations, exotic and ethnic pieces, as well as those that come in pops of color.

This year’s geometric pieces manifest strong influences from the roaring 20s and the Art Deco era depicting sleek, sophisticated and simple cuts that speak strong and sexy. Take the cue from Roberto Cavalli’s big, bold, basic pieces and wear your geometric pieces in threads that come in contrasting colors and interesting cuts. Take it to the next level with modernist and avant garde pieces a la Christian Lacroix and Giambattista Valli.

Exotic and ethnic pieces are all about chokers, bangles, and cuffs that channel queenly vibes. This year is also all about Egyptian-esque bibs, wrought gold, mother of pearl, and pieces that seem of jump out right from a new world expedition. Check out the runway trends from Valentino, Anna Sui and Ralph Lauren, and start investing on pieces that come in various textures and forms for a more exotic feel.

If your wardrobe mostly consists of basic pieces that come in the plainest shades like khaki, black, and white, spike it with pops of color by sporting over-sized rings, huge dangling earrings, and chokers that come in a flurry of tangerine, aquamarine, fuchsia, and canary yellow. This is perhaps one of the cheapest and fastest ways to turn that dress from blah to brilliant.

Jewelry has definitely taken a more crucial role in any person’s wardrobe this year which is why it is vital to choose your bling carefully. Bling can make or break any getup which means that when it comes to these statement pieces, wear it—don’t let it wear you!