There’s a saying that history often repeats itself, and that can also be said when it comes to fashion, too. Everything that has ever existed in fashion often comes back around again and again, recycled or dressed up in a different way than it was before.
One of the most timeless pieces of fashion, though, is jewellery. Antique jewellery, to be specific, is often restyled with both vintage and contemporary outfits. They also serve as heirlooms that are often passed down from one generation to the next.
How can you reclaim style through the use of antique jewellery? Here are some of the ways in which you can bring antiques back while mixing them with current trends.
Why rewearing the past feels so modern
Wearing antique jewellery that’s modern makes a statement about sustainability and the rejection of fast fashion. Buying antique jewellery helps in participating in a circular fashion and, as such, reduces the environmental impact.
As well as that, it also offers a unique style and provides an element of history that you can then get creative with when dressing up your outfit. Using one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces with unique designs makes a personal statement that helps you stand out.
Many modern trends are trying to embrace a mix of eras and metals, with antique pieces often providing a link between the past and individual self-expression that often mass-produced items will lack.
There’s also an emotional value that comes with antique jewellery, carrying sentimental value and representing a family heritage or a connection with a loved one. That emotional depth can’t really be recreated in mass-produced jewellery.
How to mix antique jewellery with current trends
When you’re looking to mix up antique jewellery with current trends, there’s a key balance and contrast that needs to be achieved. Here are some key styling tips to follow:
Start with a statement piece
To kickstart your outfit off in the right way, look at a statement piece for your outfit. This might be a bold ring or intricate pendant, or brooch. It should be the focal point of your look and outfit in general.
As a part of the statement piece, everything else that you incorporate should ideally be minimal in its design and appearance. The same goes for the clothing, too.
Pair with minimalist outfits
Modern fashion is often known for its simple silhouettes and clean lines. As such, it makes for the perfect backdrop for antique jewellery that’s detailed and statement-worthy.
A vintage necklace can end up looking the real deal, especially when partnered with a plain white top, for example.
Some antique jewellery can feel quite costum-y when it comes to wearing it with certain outfits, so the best advice is to keep it simple and let the jewellery do the talking.
Master the art of layering
The art of layering is all about combining new and old pieces together for personalized depth and style. Look at how you could layer up your necklaces, whether it’s a pendant and numerous thin chains, to something more chunky and in your face.
Bracelets can be stacked too in order to create more depth to the jewellery you’re wearing. Rings go well together, so it’s worth seeing what you can rack up on your fingers.
Incorporate color and gemstones
Antique jewellery often provides vibrance and a unique look to your pieces. That’s why it’s good to make them the focal point, especially when they’re adding a pop of color to a neutral or monochrome look you’ve assembled.
Repurpose pieces
If there’s an antique piece that’s not suiting you currently in its original form. Why not try something new? A lot of jewellery can be melted down and transformed into something else completely. From rings to earrings, to melting down bracelets to make necklaces.
There are plenty of ways that you can repurpose pieces in order to make them wearable for you or the person intended to wear them.
The emotional power of jewellery that tells a story
There’s an emotional power that comes from jewellery, particularly when it comes to antiques. The history and memories that it likely has attached to it can make it emotional alone, but when it means something to the wearer specifical, that emotional power might be stronger as a result.
Antique jewellery is not just an accessory, but it tells a story, and that’s one you can incorporate within the rest of your closet daily. Be sure to build up the selection you curate within your accessories.
