Fashion Jewelry Comeback
The last few years have seen a huge comeback for costume jewelry, with every season's look being complemented by a new range of accessories. High street shops are fully responsible for this as they all carry their own ranges to go with their clothes, but the consumer is also becoming more fashion conscious and accessories are a great way to change the look of an outfit without spending a lot of money.
Costume jewelry comes in all styles imaginable, which means that no matter your taste, you can always find something to suit. Plastic jewelry can make an outfit look kitsch and retro, but diamante jewelry worn with the same thing can transform it into something a lot more grown-up.
One of the best things about costume jewelry is that it's cheap. Mainstream shops sell their ranges for just a few pounds and while it may not be unique, a lot of pretty pieces can be picked up. The cost does not always reflect the materials however; plastic jewelry by a famous designer or artist can be just as expensive as diamonds and gold. A lot of designers prefer working with materials like plastic or glass because of the range of styles and colors that can be achieved.
On the other hand, modern manufacturing processes mean that real materials like diamonds can be replicated to an incredibly high standard, giving you something sparkly at just a fraction of the price. This kind of thing is great if you've got a black tie reception or a wedding to go to, since you can finish an outfit really easily and look great. A good piece of diamante jewelry is an essential part of any girl's wardrobe; even if you only wear it once a year it's still worth it.
Because it's been in production for decades, you really have a huge choice when buying costume jewelery. If you like vintage you can pick pieces up in second hand shops or at boot sales. Some second hand shops even specialize in jewelry and can tell you all about the provenance of items. Iconic styles really make a statement, especially if they're made in the materials of the day such as Bakelite. If you're really lucky you could find a bargain at a boot sale, because sellers sometimes do not know the real value of their items.
The internet is brilliant for looking at all different styles available and getting an idea of price. Just like high street shops, online retailers have their own routes to go with their goods. They often import jewelry in bulk so can sell at a reasonable price and they do not have the same overheads as business with concessions. You might also find more exotic pieces here such as local handicrafts or unusual materials. The internet also gives you access to a huge range of designers so the choice is even greater.
It's quite easy to build up a collection that includes every color, so no matter what you wear you have an accessory to suit, that does not break the bank.