HAPPILY EVER AFTER
BY ANNIE DAVIDSON
quiet luxury WHEN IT COMES TO BRIDAL JEWELS, EXTRAVAGANCE AND OPULENCE HAVE LONG TAKEN CENTER STAGE; THE BIGGER AND BOLDER THE STONE, THE BETTER. HOWEVER, A NEW SENTIMENT IS SLOWLY BUT SURELY MAKING ITS PRESENCE KNOWN IN THE BRIDAL JEWELRY MARKET: QUIET LUXURY.
Quiet luxury is a concept that represents a refined and understated approach to finer things. It revolves around the idea that true sophistication does not require flashy displays of wealth or excessive ornamentation. Instead, quiet luxury focuses on subtle details, craftsmanship, and quality materials to create a sense of exclusivity and timeless appeal. It’s a trend (or in many ways, an anti-trend) that’s developed in conjunction with cultural moments, including the rise in popularity of Succession during its final season, and Gwyneth Paltrow’s style during her recent, widely-aired court hearings. As such, discerning brides are choosing bridal jewelry that speaks more through subtle sophistication rather than flashy displays of wealth. Where the most popular bridal designs over the past decade have been ornate pieces with pavé diamond halos and heavy vintage detailing, simple solitaires and pear- and emerald-cuts in east-west settings are starting to take their place. The focus now is on craftsmanship, quality materials, and meaningful design, rather than extravagant gemstones and excessive ornamentation. Brides are looking to tell stories through simplicity — whether it’s giving more space for a stone that’s been passed down, or a heightened interest in sustainability — and pushing back on overindulgence.
Sustainability has, in fact, contributed to the rise of quiet luxury. With the increasing demand for sustainable and ethical practices within the fashion industry, modern brides are showing a heightened awareness of the impact their choices have on the environment and the workers who create these beautiful pieces. Therefore, they’re opting for less in more ways than one, from design all the way down to practices and materials. By opting for such jewelry, brides can indulge in their jewels while contributing to a more sustainable and responsible future — which to many, is the ultimate luxury. Moving forward, it’s evident that the era of ostentatious bridal jewelry is giving way to a more refined and heartfelt approach. Quiet luxury is not merely a trend; it’s a shift in mindset towards mindful and conscious consumption, where meaning and craftsmanship trump material excess. Designs, therefore, are getting more adventurous, with brides opting for more unique cuts (marquise, for example, seems to be more popular now than ever before), settings, and even colored stones, while still maintaining a focus on minimalism.
44 ALSON JEWELERS MAGAZINE
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