Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Hollywood Diamonds at Elle’s 15th Annual Tribute

Several award ceremonies and other red carpet events each year give us an idea of what’s soon to be hot in fashion and jewels. Paying close attention to what the stars are wearing when they dress for these events will give important clues as to which body part is most important to emphasize. This year’s Women in Hollywood Tribute by Elle brought celebrities to the red carpet in yards of diamond and glitter, and it seems the hottest trend was emphasizing size and style of the earrings.Huge diamond hoops in gold and platinum, adorned with diamonds, were seen everywhere. Icons and divas alike were pulling off some the largest ear jewels we’ve seen yet. It has been said that any shape will do, but it must be larger than a silver dollar to be qualified for celebrity wear.


Jennifer Lopez sparkled with white diamond cluster earrings. The carat weight has not been disclosed, but they were approximately the size of a small child’s fist. We all know she’s never liked to be outdone, and these jewels caught everyone’s eyes that night.


Increasing size and carat weights of diamonds were also seen at this year’s Oscars and Academy Awards. No size is too big, and bold is best this year.


Jane Fonda wore a similar, yet smaller version of JLo’s earrings, and jokingly commented, “What a fantastic business. Aren’t we glad we’re not all bankers?”


Amber Tamblyn wore a trendy pair of diamond drop-style earrings that grazed her perfect shoulders. Drop and waterfall earrings are touting several colors and cuts this year in Hollywood.
Many of our current jewelry trends are determined by Hollywood and bridal jewelry designs, and other award ceremonies this year have lent us a peek at celebrity jewel collections to complement our entire wardrobes.


Earlier this season, at the 60th Emmy Awards, several new trends were noted among the celebrities. Vintage and antique designs were seen with nature-inspired carvings, as well as multiple stones and rare cuts and colors. Cuff bracelets and black diamonds were some of the most common themes.


Mixing raw and uncut diamonds with other stones and jewels has been seen on the red carpet this year as well. Turquoise, jade and rubies and pearls are common counterparts to diamonds in modern, high-class jewelry.


This fall’s looks are expected to be fashioned in deep jewel tones, and jewelry that makes a statement is sure to follow. Costume-like jewelry in big and bold designs is now available using precious diamonds and other gemstones.


Canary yellow is expected to be the most popular trend in colored diamonds this year. The warm tone and color brings a warm feeling to the winter months. Yellow diamonds may be chosen as the centerpiece to a ring or earring, or smaller versions may accent the main stone.
Gray, chocolate and black diamonds are also seen on more celebrities at this year’s awards. Paired with any color of metal, they may be alternated with colorless or jewel-colored stones for added effect and wearability.


White, rose and pink gold are common alloys that are rising in popularity among the rich and famous, as well as fall brides. Mixing different metal colors to create a unique or antique look is a personal way to express your style.


Large necklaces using bold designs and several different sizes and colors of stones are also popular. Multiple chains and lengths are acceptable, and no single focal point is required for a design to be considered fashionable.


Diamond-encrusted watches and cuff bracelets were seen at MTV’s Video Music Awards. Cuffs may also be worn on both wrists, or paired with stacked bangles to provide varying widths.
Pendants are also making a comeback this year, as added emphasis is needed to accent the bold necklines of fall fashions. Oversized and encrusted with multiple gemstones, pendants may be worn on a diamond link chain, or in addition to other necklaces.


Due to the current trend of eco-friendly practices, raw and natural stones are paving the way for new diamond designs. These raw diamonds may be paired with cut and colored diamond or other gemstones for a more refined and formal look, or fashioned in an organic piece with pearls or jade to create a dramatic casual look.


Many Hollywood celebrities are layering and coordinating like there’s no tomorrow. It is simply not possible to be wearing too much jewelry or too many jewels. Dangling earrings that graze shoulders or fall below the hairline are paired with multi-strand, fancy necklaces. Cuff bracelets are worn with several diamond rings and pendants, and all pieces may tout varying cuts and colors of diamonds.