Is your jewelry a fashion accessory?

For some people jewelry is just something they wear and it doesn’t always have to match their clothes, but others make jewelry a fashion accessory. I’ve noticed many people here in the ‘Pep’ enjoy matching up their jewelry on a pretty regular basis.

According to top jewelry trend watchers, jewelry in every category including bracelets, earrings, rings, and pendants, that feature open or cut designs are considered in this season. Many people are also seeking the eco-friendly jewelry from recycled materials to promote the “green” movement. Beads coupled with pendants have also proven to be a fashion trend.

I visited two local jewelry stores, the first being The Jewelry Box at 140 E Davis St. There I spoke with Penny Magyar one of the sales associates. She told me that a lot of pearls in the shades of chocolate, lavender, blues and blacks are in this season.

Bangles, which are a ridged bracelet or anklet, with no clasp, are still in especially ones with removable centerpieces to change out your look, along with large hoops, and the more dangily earrings, a lot of multi-layered necklaces with multiple colors and designs.

At The Jewelry Box a lot of beach theme pieces such as the bangles mentioned earlier, a lot of sterling silver some with swarovski crystals, gemstones, or unembellished, are being sought after says Penny. Alternative metals and materials are in, especially in men’s jewelry, such as stainless steel, titanium, tungsten, rubber, carbon fiber and leather.

The second store I visited was Sushar Beads at 246 E Davis St. Sue Silvia, one of the owners, told me that she has noticed at lot of chunky, gaudy jewelry and natural stones being worn. A lot of Sushar customers are purchasing pinks and turquoise and crystals.

SuShar Beads also offers jewelry making classes. Sue said that in Culpeper about the same number of people come in for supplies to make there own jewelry, as they do to buy SuShar pre-made jewelry.

Both Penny and Sue stated that many of their customers are seeking earth tones, and a lot of silver, as silver can worn whether you are dressing up or just being casual. It is also said that silver makes your skin appear tanner.

Now that you know what type of jewelry is in, it’s time for you to get out, hit the stores, and grab some matching jewelry to jazz up — or should I say “jewel” up — your style. Whether you plan to just be casual or to dress to the nines, jewelry can make a difference. Even better go grab some supplies to make your own jewelry and be original. Maybe some day you’ll start your own fashion trend.

Kimberly Smith can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 101 or at .