News + Trends

Plastic jewellery outshines gold and silver

26.5.2021

A new wave of plastic jewellery appreciation has hit social networks. But what may look like a homemade piece often costs big bucks.

Scrolling through my Instagram feed currently feels like time travelling. Influencers such as Chiara Ferragni show off playful and colourful necklaces and bracelets. The perfect feel good jewellery for the drab weather that May blessed me with.

In a fit of nostalgia, I think of my childhood. I still remember one summer in the early nineties when I was carefully threading one bead after another onto a nylon thread with my best friend on the garden table. I finished these necklaces and bracelets off with stylish white plastic squares with letters on them. Layer by layer, I decorated myself with them. I looked like a Christmas tree. My motto: more colour, more style. And apparently this motto is making a comeback. On social media, people are splurging on playful plastic jewellery in all variations: wearing multiple layers on top of another seems to be the way to go again.

Colourful beads as far as the eye can see: whether as luxury...Image: @chiaraferragni

...or as a more affordable option – playful jewellery is fun. Image: @mysha.col — Colourful beads as far as the eye can see: whether as luxury...Image: @chiaraferragni

Would I still wear these necklaces and bracelets today? Definitely not. Not even fashion experst can persuade me of this trend, even though they style it the «right» way. Let’s face it: the pieces look childish, even on them. I have to admit, the playful plastic jewellery gives you a good feeling, though.

What aggravates me the most about this trend is the fact that many of the pieces shown on Instagram aren’t homemade, but from luxury brands such as Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta. The latter offers a flower necklace (see below) in its current collection, which costs about 2,890 francs. This exorbitant price doesn’t seem to stop buyers: the fashion statement is already sold out. So are Bottega Veneta’s necklaces and earrings that look like Invisibobbles. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. However, anyone with a reputation in the fashion industry wants to stand out at any price: absurdity as a game changer. With jewellery that at least visually resembles worn out spiral hair ties, this aspiration may be succeeded. Or with an overpriced branded plastic chain, which Balenciaga showcases in their boutiques.

The «Floral-Beaded» necklace by Bottega Veneta. Image: @bottegaveneta

The «Toy» necklace for around 640 francs is a bargain in comparison ;-) Image: @balenciaga — The «Floral-Beaded» necklace by Bottega Veneta. Image: @bottegaveneta

Aside from the fact that this plastic trend is anything but sustainable, and the high-fashion pieces are already sold out, I advise you to rather buy something more long-lived with your money. Or craft your own jewellery instead. Not only is it fun, but in times like these, it’s a creative and entertaining pastime.

Craft sets

CHF18.–

NoName Loom Bands Set in small case

Craft sets

CHF30.70

Make it Real Mega Jewels Set

Craft sets

Quantity discount

CHF13.50 per piece for 2 units

Nice Group Magic Unicorn Bead Set

Craft sets

CHF18.–

NoName Loom Bands Set in small case

Craft sets

CHF30.70

Make it Real Mega Jewels Set

Quantity discount

Craft sets

CHF13.50 per piece for 2 units

Nice Group Magic Unicorn Bead Set

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Vanessa Kim

Editor

vanessa.kim@digitecgalaxus.ch

When I’m not exploring the depths of the sea as an open water diver, I enjoy plunging into the world of fashion. On the streets of Paris, Milan and New York is where I keep my eyes peeled for the latest trends. And I’ll show you how to take them from the catwalk to your everyday life.

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