 | Spring is a time of regeneration. After a long winter, thoughts may turn to lighter clothing and new fashion trends for the season. If you are considering some upgrading of your wardrobe for spring, perhaps you are also considering some new jewelry to add a shot of color to your new look. |
Irish jewelry is known for its intricate metalwork and its careful use of inlaid gems. For centuries, the Irish were renowned for their mastery in jewelry design. To this day, Irish art treasures, crafted of precious metals, rest in museums, as a testament to the skill and passion of Celtic artisans.
The traditions remain alive today, but modern Irish jewelry designers take into account the latest fashion trends and design features. The melding of past and present allows today’s pieces to play many roles.
You can wear a special ring, pendant or earrings for a variety of occasions. From special pieces for a Spring wedding, to everyday styles you will never take off, Irish jewelry can become a treasured collectible with timeless appeal.
Here is our top five list of fashion trends for women this season, along with complementary jewelry pieces you can wear for a finished look:
5.) Gold Tones – According to Vogue magazine, gold and other burnished metallics are a popular choice for women’s wear this spring. Runway shows featured soft fabrics in muted metallic tones for pants and tops.
Accent your new wardrobe with gold Irish jewelry that will pick up the subtle glimmer in your ensemble. Some bright choices for spring are intricate Saint Bridget’s Cross pendants, with “woven” details, or Claddagh pendants that feature birthstones for a pop of color. The symbols of love, faith and loyalty that are represented in Saint Bridget’s Cross, and in the crowned hearts found on Claddagh designs, add a touch of mystery and deeper meaning to your jewelry.
4.) Ruffled Bridal Gowns – A return to true femininity in bridal designs was a feature of spring runway shows. Ruffled wedding gowns with crinolines and volume were standout choices for the season. Accent a frilly, ballerina-inspired wedding dress with pearl drop Trinity Knot earrings and matching pendant. The teardrop shape of the lustrous, cultured pearls in these white-gold designs will be the perfect complement to a strapless bodice and full skirt.
3.) Wild Color Combinations – The grouping of two bright colors in a single ensemble was a vivid trend on runways during the spring collections. This daring trend is known as color blocking, and it relies on mixes such as bright pink and red, or hot yellow and electric blue. For a matching jewelry look, consider a bright emerald ring that features shimmering diamonds set around a central, deep-green emerald.
Bold color choices call for equally bold accessories, so look for a cocktail ring such as an emerald and diamond cluster Celtic ring. This ring will also feature intricate knot work that makes it stand out from the rest.
2.) Retro Denim – Pale denims with an Eighties’ feel were very common on runway this season, and they often featured special washes that added dimension to simple shapes. Jeans this year are tapered to the ankle, and worn with high-heeled sandals and military jackets.
To add a touch of Celtic beauty to your retro casual wear, consider a classic Claddagh ring in gold or silver for this spring. The Claddagh ring was worn by Bono frequently during the Eighties, as the perfect complement to his structured jackets and slim jeans. This look can work beautifully for women as well.
1.) Nude Tones – Gentle, earthy nude tones were all over spring runways, and they require soft, subtle jewelry choices to keep the look refined. A gold and diamond Celtic Cross Pendant will add a touch of richness and beauty to nude designs without being too bold. The sophisticated knot work and tiny gems of a traditional Celtic Cross pendant will flow well with soft fabrics and flowy shapes.