|  Movement and motion are the current buzz words for the newest lines of accessories shaking up the fashion world. It may not be the first feature that you look for when selecting your jewelry, but that may change when you see the drama it adds to your ensemble. Both tassel jewelry and extra-long necklaces, at times combined, are invigorating the latest runways with alluring style.
The most show stopping of these pieces, tassel earrings, has been seen sweeping across the shoulders of some very influential people. With their shimmering strands of lustrous beads, fine chain, or wispy strands of silk, these earrings are an essential item for any women to commemorate a special night. With a look this lively, little more is required than a simple cocktail ring as not to detract from the elegant design. The demand for these Prohibition Era accessories is undergoing a revival and the inspiration comes straight out of Hollywood.
 Get ready to experience a big budget remake of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, which is to bereleased on Christmas Day and in 3D no less. This will be the fourth silver screen remake, not including the TV version, and the costumes and adornments are promised to be over-the-top exquisite. Fashion designers are having a field day with all of the luxurious accessories and styles that made a huge splash during the Jazz Age. The modern day flapper has arrived in her head to toe pearl strands, t-strap shoes , drop waist beaded or full fringe dresses, feather cover-ups and cloche hats. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the story, The Great Gatsby follows the lives of some very wealthy New York socialites in 1922. The Twenties was an era which redefined womanhood; lux turn of the century fashion, scandal, fancy parties and a desire to be seen were of the moment. The lengthy rope-style necklaces which contained heaps of gleaming pearls are now as fashionable as ever and still universally loved by modern day women. |
 Designer Coco Chanel is credited with making the pearl necklace a staple in every woman’s jewelry box. The longer length necklaces she coveted were wrapped, draped, and knotted in ways not traditionally worn in the past. Known as a “sautoir”, which translates into an Old French term meaning “to chain”, the necklace exceeds an opera length (28-34 inches) and often ends in a tassel or pendant. This accessory increased in popularity when greater focus was placed on the elongation of the feminine silhouette. Clothing became less restrictive and showcasing curves was the norm. The term “flapper beads” refers to strands of pearls that were typically wrapped twice around the neck in a choker style and then hung down past the waist and knotted at the end. The jewelry women wore at the time drew attention to their physique when it swayed and bounced with their body movements.
Sautoir style necklaces move gracefully with every step and, most importantly, give the illusion of a longer torso. Chanel is a major fashion house that is known for its modern renditions of this style and has amassed a substantial customer base that awaits the latest release. V-neck tops are the easiest to pair with these pieces as it mimics the natural shape of the neckline and becomes an instant focal point of any outfit. The centerpiece of the design will instantly glide to the middle of your form and create a flattering horizontal line. The signature tassel at the base of the necklace can be constructed in a variety of ways or choose a detachable pendant that can be easily added or removed. These beaded or chain pendants are quite popular as they can be attached to bracelets, shoes and handbags as well. It’s so easy to be inspired by these pieces and you can replicate that wealthy Hamptons look at just a fraction of the price! So put on some jazz and kick up your heels; it’s time to get nostalgic. ~ Nick |