Back to Earth
This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.
Though the trend toward feminine fashion in all shades of rhinestone-embellished pink hasn’t entirely run aground, it’s going to have some competition this fall. At two fashion trade shows – Accessories the Show and Fame, both at the Jacob Javits Center – earth tones and natural materials had a strong showing. It’s time for smooth wood, red corals, turquoise, and rich gold, especially in jewelry.
One label poised to enjoy that trend is Alexia Crawford, which has a line of inexpensive bracelets loaded with red, blue, and mother-of-pearl beads. The bracelets are priced between $25 and $36 on www.shopalexiacrawford.com.
Jewelry designer Page Sargisson has introduced a high-end product to her clever line of necklaces made from antique poker chips. She’s now moved into gold; her series of stackable 18-karat rings have shiny semi-precious stones and irregular grooves that give them a natural, earthy look.
“I wanted to create rings that have texture,” said the designer. The rings are available at www.pagesargisson.com and start at $325.
By Boe has a large collection of necklaces made from wooden beads, as well as wide circles or ovals in wood paired with silver or gold-tone metal. The pieces have such pure lines, you want to reach out and touch them. (Available at Annika Inez, 243 East 78th St., 212-717-9644.)
Mandy Barrett of bb Designs has combined several trends in her stunning gold necklaces that dangle a large open circle at the center. Made to be worn in layers, they have an easy, elegant look, but are rich in gold. Ms. Barrett continued the circle motif in her rings (an open circle lies flat against the top of the finger) and link bracelets. (Available at Rumrunner, 14 Main St., East Hampton, 631-324-3444, and 24 Main St., Southampton, 631-287-0583; prices vary.)
Colorful, busy handbags remain popular, but there’s also a smoother, earth-toned leather look emerging. Cleo & Patek (120 West 57th St., 212-957-0729) has a line of leather bags in autumnal colors with chocolate-brown trim (prices vary) that’s just the antidote to the shimmering pink and metallic bags everyone’s carrying.
