Transparent Treasures

With all the vibrant colors and prints populating fashion look books this spring, it’s no wonder that designers are gravitating toward accessories that don’t compete visually yet still add polish. One of the key trends is the use of transparent materials in jewelry and other accessories.

The March issue of Elle suggests: “Keep them guessing with see-through pieces such as Lucite heels, transparent clutches, and a reenvisioned Vuitton Lockit [handbag].” Actually, it’s more as though the owner is baring, if not her soul, then her possessions, especially with the bag. Along with the aforementioned bag, Dries Van Noten sandals and a Plexiglas clutch with hematite studs from Valentino Garavani, Elle features a clear resin cuff from Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière.

Among the “10 Finds Under $50” in the March 2012 issue of Real Simple is a “strand of clear, golf ball-size beads” that is “definitely bold, but it won’t overpower an outfit.” That plastic necklace is from Joe Fresh. Also featured are earrings from Lucky Brand and a preppy nylon-band wristwatch from Timex.

The March 2012 issue of Real Simple also showcases a transparent necklace from Patricia von Musulin with a vibrantly hued A-line tank from Hutch.

With an asymmetrical white dress from Nha Khanh, March’s Real Simple pictures a long necklace incorporating large transparent segments from Nugaard.

One of the key spring trends profiled in the February 20 – 27, 2012 issue of New York magazine is “Total Clarity: Accessories you can see right through.” The first page of the two-page spread includes transparent door knocker earrings from Marni.

The second page of the New York magazine spread pictures the resin cuff from Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière also seen in Elle.

An ad that appears in the February 20–27 issue of New York magazine pictures a complex necklace of transparent links from Folli Follie.

A current ad for Ralph Lauren features a dazzling silver evening gown accompanied by long crystal chain earrings that end with clear Lucite drops.

A current for John Frieda stylizes a ravishing redhead with a crisp white dress adorned with a set of crystal-studded transparent bangles.

The January issue of Lucky profiles the accessory trend “Clear Choices” noting, “Whether showing off skin or the contents of your purse, these pieces are stylishly voyeuristic.” The earrings pictured center right may need a second look—they are more than long sparkling dangles. The caption reads: “A bit playful, as if your glammest earrings were frozen in ice.” The earrings of Lucite, glass, and Swarovski crystal are by Sandy Hyun.

If plastic doesn’t pique your interest, there is another option, also pictured in that fashion trend piece in Lucky: long, dangling rock crystal and sterling silver earrings by Elsa Peretti.

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