While the perfect tan has long been considered the most coveted summer accessory, we’re here with the lowdown on this summer season’s most popular fashion accessories. Jewelry trends in 2013 have been all about the shapes, with bold geometric figures taking center stage. Prisms, pyramids, squares, and triangle pendants and rings in bright primary colors are all the rage for this summer season. Join trendsetters and sport an oversized geometric ring to cocktail hour. A long geometric pendant adds a touch of flare when worn with a basic white sundress.
Bright pastels have endured and continue to be a key jewelry trend in the summer 2013 season. Our favorite pastel piece is the staple chunky beaded collar necklace. Dress it up with a cocktail dress or down with a basic tank and shorts. The most popular pastel? Aqua is the winner. Straight off the spring runway, aqua stones complemented by gold accents have been shown worn with any and every color.
Stackable thin bangles, a trend rooted in the free spirited “hippies” of the Woodstock era, have burst back onto the scene. Though gold appears to be the preferred metal of most fashion houses, silver bangles work well with cool colors such as blue, green, or gray. The brand to watch this summer season is without a doubt Alex and Ani. Founded by designer Carolyn Rafaelian, this line of signature expandable wire bangles (available in both gold and silver) features beaded designs, simple charm attachments, and much more. Alex and Ani bangles have been spotted stacked on wrists up and down the east coast, allowing their wearers to customize their very own Alex and Ani look. Start your collection with a charm bearing your first initial or birthstone and move on to collect the bangles representing your favorite sports team or a momentous accomplishment. Marcellina Boutique of the Wildwood boardwalk carries a number of Alex and Ani styles and allows local trendsetters to get a piece of this bangle craze.
Lastly, summer fashionistas have begun to get in touch with their wild side, sporting pendants and rings featuring animal subjects such as tigers, snakes, leopards, and a range of wild species. A fierce take on the chunky cocktail ring look, these animal profile rings work best worn with an understated evening look such as a solid color dress or a basic skirt and linen top.
By Megan Kummer