Noughties "the Decade Of The Accessory"

Published on 24/04/08

The turn of the millennium signified the beginning of the "decade of the accessory", according to a new report.

Bronwyn Cosgrave writes in the Telegraph that celebrity style over the last eight years has been characterised by a focus on bags, shoes and now designer jewellery.

Spring/summer and autumn/winter 2008 shows at Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry, Balenciaga and Lanvin featured statement bespoke jewellery such as metal bangles, chandelier earrings and bold brooches, the report observes.

Carol Woolton, jewellery editor for Vogue, told the publication that designer jewellery may prove to be a sound investment, while "ultra-fashionable" pieces should be avoided in favour of signature and bespoke jewellery that ensures its wearer stands out from the crowd.

And costume accessories can be combined with real stones in the manner of Sarah Jessica Parker, who recently wore an Erickson Beamon necklace with a £12,600 gold and mosaic opal strand from Fred Leighton.

Parker is soon to be seen in Sex and the City: The Movie, released in the UK next month.