Art Nouveau for a New Generation

The fashion world has finally tired of minimalist--but ultimately boring--jewelry. And not a moment too soon!

For Spring 2008, designers like Marc Jacobs, Yohji Yamamoto (he of the Adidas Y-3 line) and the houses of Dior and Eternamé are toying with Art Nouveau themes and gilding them with modern finishes. The results are sometimes playful, sometimes lavish, but always edgy.

I prefer to think of it as bling for women who think.

Yes, this is fine jewelry. But if you yearn for platinum but live on a rhodium budget, I have seen similar costume pieces at the more upscale bazaars.

A word of warning, girls. When you slip one on, don't wear any other piece. And put that Pucci-esque tunic back on the hanger. Believe me, a bauble like the Dior ring (above left) is the only statement you need to make.




A lariat with a shell pendant and the calla-lily pearl ring, from Yohji Yamamoto


















Marc Jacob's mouse ring--perfect for a delicate pinky









Eternamé octopus bracelet with diamonds and sapphires. Great on a bare arm and white linen.







Dior cocktail ring with diamonds, pearls and other semi-precious gems--best on a young debutante in a simple frock. (Mommies, keep away. This, like leopard print, is kryptonite to women of a certain age.)




(Photographs by Denko Ivanisevic)