How handmade charms made their way back into fashion
OMG. Okay, so these are my OBSESSION CONFESSIONS. I know, maybe it’s a little embarrassing, but come on… Surely I can’t be the only one? This series is about all the things that we can’t take our eyes off, the latest viral TikTok trends, the secret infatuations with certain former boyband members…okay I’m only going to say this one more time, surely I can’t be the only one?
With everyone from your 12-year-old sister to Dua Lipa sporting them, handmade charms are the latest jewellery trend back on the block. But how and why did they make their way back into fashion?
Given the insane state of the world this past year, people have been in-and-out of lockdown more times than Cher has had comebacks. With so many things closed down, many of us have kept ourselves busy through DIY projects and crafts. The handmade charms trending right now are a direct result of being cooped up in the house during this pandemic, creating things that were simply accessible to make. With millions of jobs lost due to the virus, it makes sense that a lot of creatives have become resourceful in finding ways to make money through selling handmade goods. I mean, it’s either that or OnlyFans…
Courtesy of @string_ting
Both GIGI HADID and KAIA GERBER have been spotted with rainbow beaded phone wristlets by Peckham-based brand STRING TING - founded by Rachel Steed-Middleton during the first lockdown. IAN CHARMS (a particular favourite of DUA LIPA’S) also started during the pandemic. Founder Lisa Sahakian says she thinks handmade charms have made such a comeback because “it's a very dark time when we not only find comfort in familiar nostalgia, but also appreciate the fun escapism that handmade charms brings.”
Beyond this, trends often reference different generations and time periods, and right now we’re in the middle of a big ‘90s fashion resurgence. Growing up during that era, this type of kitschy jewellery was a staple - from handmade bead kits you’d get at craft stores to create necklaces at home, to making your own bracelets at summer camp. As ‘90s trends have re-emerged, so too has this type of nostalgic childhood pastime.
Courtesy of @dailydaisyproject