Meet Your Vacation Fine-Jewelry Capsule For 2024
Preparing to jet off means seeking out a streamlined edit of sparkling jewels that can take you anywhere. Here, KIM PARKER explores the cool and contemporary pieces to pop into your carry-on this season – wherever you’re heading
With vacation season (finally) on the horizon, the thought of packing a suitcase and boarding an airplane for a sun-soaked escape becomes infinitely more enticing. Of course, when it comes to getting away, ease is everything – lightweight dresses, loose shirts and flat sandals make ideal carry-on companions, as does a capsule wardrobe of chic, wear-with-anything jewelry that will help you stand apart without weighing you down. This season, leave your chunkier jewels at home and pack these essential pieces for a shortcut to scintillating destination dressing.
Shell jewels
Nothing says ‘out of office’ quite like shell-themed jewels. Martha Calvo’s ‘Isla’ necklace is instantly impactful, while Santangelo’s long-drop shell earrings give beach-day energy in spades. Shell-set pieces by Pippa Small will also cast a luminous glow against sun-kissed skin – they’re elevated yet understated enough to wear from sunrise until sundowners by the pool. Alternatively, for just the hint of a vacay vibe, add a tiny ‘Cauri’ stud by Almasika into your existing ear stack, or choose Oscar de la Renta’s oversized ‘Dotted Shell’ earrings to add instant drama to an LBD. And on your wrists? Die-hard mermaids must stack up shell bead bracelets by Sydney Evan, preferably three at a time.
A boho necklace
When temperatures rise, you don’t want to be laden down with heavy chains. Higher-carat weights can be cumbersome, so choose 9-, 10- or 14-karat gold chains (they’re lightweight, comfortable and brilliantly water-resistant) – then mix them with beads and charms for a bohemian feel. The SS24 runways were awash with hippie iterations of the ‘neckmess’, with plenty of cords, strands of leather and strings of crystals truly embodying the summer spirit. Marie Lichtenberg is the ultimate boho-attuned designer – her unique lockets are hung on colorful silk threads that never fail to enthral. Experiment by layering delicate pieces by wanderlust-worthy brands such as Marla Aaron, Yvonne Léon and Foundrae – aim for a combination of gleaming diamonds, talismans and pendant charms to create a flattering mix of textures.
A statement cuff
When you’re short on suitcase space, it’s important that each item you pack works as hard as it possibly can, stylistically speaking. Enter the statement cuff: when your clothes are pared back, this one punchy piece will take you from a beachside bar to a dressier dinner with zero effort. Look to fashion maisons such as Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen and Bottega Veneta for modern and minimalist designs in mixed-metal tones, while Amrapali London, Jia Jia and David Yurman offer eye-catching gem-set pieces.
Silver earrings
Going on vacation is a great opportunity to shake up your jewelry collection and incorporate a new look – silver tones if you’re used to wearing yellow gold, for example. Bottega Veneta’s teardrop silver earrings have become a viral sensation, and styles by Lié Studio, Agmes and Sophie Buhai deliver similar volume with equally appealing curves. If you’re able to invest in white gold, look to modern and minimalist pieces by Anita Ko, Ofira and Messika, which accentuate summery skin in an instant.
The anklet
Oh, yes, the ’90s staple is back – and it’s an excellent way to embellish freshly pedicured, beach-ready feet. Wear a pearl iteration solo with your favorite sandals as a simple statement, or layer up two sleek gold chains for a more bohemian vibe. Roxanne Assoulin’s ‘On The Fringe’ crystal anklet is a fun, sparkling take on the silver-jewelry trend, while Mateo, Jacquie Aiche and Marlo Laz offer delicate yellow-gold designs. Pastel gemstone beads and diamond-studded charms will add a dash of sun-bleached color and shine, but the ultimate holiday anklet aesthetic has to feature lapis lazuli and turquoise – stones that look like they were made to be worn in blue, crystal-clear waters.
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