Those who attended my chat at the AGS Conclave yesterday got a list of 10 important fashion and jewelry trends for this year

Yesterday at 11:45 a.m., a standing-room-only audience (thank you, attendees!) came to hear me share my thoughts and research on Jewelry Fashion Trends That Define 2016 at the American Gem Society’s Conclave, which takes place from April 13–16 in Washington, D.C. Here are three of those 10 points, but if you want the rest, just email me at JHeebner@jckonline.com.

Trend No. 1: Keep it casual

With the importance of athleisure in Americans’ wardrobes, jewelry selections have become a lot more casual. Why? When you’re wearing yoga pants and a T-shirt, big diamond jewels could look a bit out of place. Consider Kate Hudson’s new line of athleisure clothing dubbed Fabletics, and last week Royersford, Pa.–based jeweler Cathy Calhoun told me that many of her clients “don’t dress up as much.” The appropriate jewelry to wear? Think stackable bands with small stones and a smaller profile, wearables such as Fitbits or a sporty watch, or even charms, cabochon-cut gemstones, and signet rings.

Trend No. 2: Boho chic

We can thank all the 1960s- and 1970s-inspired attire on fashion runways in recent years for the plethora of fringe, feathers, beads, and turquoise motifs that followed. Plus, the annual music fair Coachella (happening now), with its earthy vibe and setting in Indio, Calif., has become such a scene that many celebrities are now paid by brands to attend. Boho-chic jewelry includes silver and turquoise, feathers, and long beads or necklaces.

Trend No. 3: Chokers and collar necklaces

Thanks to recent red carpet looks and runways shows in which designers dressed models in myriad necklaces, the style has finally gotten some major attention. Jewelry designers have responded accordingly with lots of new offerings aiming to adorn the neckline—which is fun for jewelry lovers to embrace after years of big cuffs and dangling earrings.

E-mail me at JHeebner@jckonline.com for the entire Powerpoint presentation. 

The Style 360 blog is your editorial source for the newest jewelry trends, market analysis, trade show insights, designer profiles, and more.

JCK