Is it crazy to start thinking about next year? I don't think so. I hate to break it to you, but there are less than 40 days until Christmas, which means there are only a few more days than that until 2022. Yes, I know. Anyway, the reason I'm writing about the coming New Year is that I'm thinking about new trends, particularly jewellery trends for 2022. Ever since the pandemic started and we've been hooked to our computers and Zoom meetings, various luxury outlets reported a rise in sales of jewellery. Specifically, people are buying fine jewellery that's great for wearing every day. The idea being that people wanted to elevate their more casual WFH looks with chic necklaces and earrings—the Zoom-friendly options.
In 2021, however, Gen Z jewellery trends started to take off. A proliferation of plasticky Y2K-inspired pieces became the items du jour. Pastel hues on necklaces reminiscent of sweetie necklaces you used to get from the corner shop, puka-shell anklets and necklaces, resin pieces and mood rings have been everywhere this year. So with 2020's and 2021's jewellery trends almost at opposite ends of the spectrum, what's in store for 2022? I spoke to a couple of jewellery experts to get a good understanding of what to expect. Jayran Zahedi, former head buyer at ASOS and founder of jewellery brand @pawnshoplondon, and Sophie Quy, executive vice president at Threads Styling, both told me that there are a few styles they predict will be big. Keep scrolling for 2022's biggest jewellery trends.
1. '70s Charms
It's unsurprising that the '70s have made their way into our jewellery boxes considering the decade has been such a big inspiration on the runways for the past few seasons. Zahedi, who's an avid collector of vintage jewellery, tells me that she's seen a lot of people keen on "thrifty" trends and that nostalgia features heavily, such as '70s charms.
You can never have enough pearls.
It's not just any charm bracelet; it's a Paco Rabanne charm bracelet.
See, florals aren't just for spring.
Yes to mixed metals.
2. Signet Rings
I've spotted this trend already bubbling up amongst the Gen Z crowd, but Zahedi confirmed it, too, telling me that this is one of the biggest sellers on Pawnshop and that the more "Elizabeth Duke–inspired" pieces are doing the best.
Signet rings on your little finger are here to stay.
They look good worn so vintage sites have the best styles.
The chunkier, the better for 2022.
3. Large Stone-Set Rings
Perhaps the opposite of the plastic-jewellery trend is this: large stone-set rings. This look is all about multiple stones set in a large ring, essentially. Quy says, "Designers are starting to go big with the stones they're using, making bolder designs often set in bigger statement pieces."
Look to vintage sites for unique rings no one else will have.
You'll want to wear this sapphire way beyond 2022.
Yes, cocktail rings are officially back.
Made from 100% recycled 18K yellow gold and an ethically sourced sapphire.
4. Big Stones
Carrying on the above theme, necklaces are also getting the supersized treatment. Quy cites Harwell Godfrey's "amazing new pendants," Jacquie Aiche's eye pendants and Bayco's mega cuffs as pieces to invest in. She also says to look out for "really fun, big pieces with colourful stones, emeralds, opals and coloured sapphires."
No matter what chain you add this pendant to, it'll be your new favourite necklace.
With emerald, onyx and diamonds, this necklace is a winner.
This cuff is perfect for layering with other bangles.
5. Zodiac Jewellery
According to recent stats from Lyst, the global shopping platform, Zodiac jewellery is seeing a major increase. Demand for zodiac jewellery is up 29%, with necklaces being the most popular.
Multi chains aren't going anywhere. The more, the merrier.
A zodiac necklace will be your new everyday favourite.
Get your loved ones' signs all on the same chain.
Even the high street has got the memo about zodiac jewellery.
6. Nameplate Necklaces
The personalisation theme continues with the nameplate necklaces, with Lyst revealing that demand for "letter" and "nameplate" necklaces has increased 36%. And what with the return of Carrie Bradshaw, I can imagine this category is going to be even more popular once And Just Like That… airs.
Otiumberg is a go-to for sustainable jewels.
Get your name or your favourite person's.
Beaded necklaces weren't just a summer fling, they're sticking around for 2022, too.
