Loopiness! My New Spring Line

Since I discovered a supplier of unused vintage plastic hoop beads, my creative juices have been revitalized. I have always been inspired by the materials I use rather than designing something first and then finding what I need to bring the design to life. Often those materials would come from broken or unattractive vintage pieces, but there are some vintage bead dealers that have somehow amassed large amounts (not if I keep buying them!) of unused vintage beads. One such supplier is johnv6 , from whom I have purchased several lots of plastic hoop beads.

They have inspired a series of new necklaces and earrings, which I think of (with undeserved hubris, may I add!) as my SPRING LINE.

Spring Trends

I have been perusing fashion magazines, style websites and culture blogs to determine what are the fashion and design trends for Spring 2009. Don't get me wrong...I am not a slave to fashion. As a matter of fact, the most important thing clothes must be for me is comfortable. But as a jewelry maker, I am interested in what women will be wearing and buying this season (which can't get here soon enough for me!).

From my readings, I have culled the following:

colors: black & white, bright colors (yellow, purple, blue and pink), pastels (I know this seems like now we are including every color imaginable to man...but I'm only reporting what others are writing.)

fabrics: sheers, floral, animal and ethnic prints

design: ruffles, 3-D construction (think hard ruffles!)

jewelry: big bib (say that three times fast!) necklaces, over-sized earrings

affordability: self-explanatory although what some of these experts consider affordable is not what I consider affordable

I already incorporate affordability into my jewelry (my definition) and although I am somewhat limited because I use only vintage beads and chains in my designs, I think there are enough trendy color choices to keep me working.

Any other trends you've spotted? (Oh! an animal print...Ha Ha)