No trend can claim to be the only correct one. Furthermore, people interested in design – whether it's jewellery, fashion, or interior design – choose those elements of current trends that bring something new to their personal style or complement it. Regardless of whether these trends are derived from romantic, ethnic, artistic, classic, or magical inspirations, one tendency that penetrates all the trend themes of the upcoming season is the emotional story of the product. An increasing number of designers are telling the story behind the product they have created. They reveal how the idea was born, how the object was made, and what production processes it went through. The “Product Art” trend shows this very clearly.
Product Art
The rediscovery of traditional craft techniques, coupled with our passion for meticulously crafted objects, is giving rise to artistic jewellery. In addition to classic precious metals, this trend incorporates materials such as leather, wood, horn, raffia, horsehair, colourful glass beads, or found trinkets. Intricate, heartfelt craftsmanship transforms these into unique pieces of jewellery, and the process of their creation is an important part of the artwork: precious metals are crocheted, knitted, or braided into cords, or used for traditional bobbin lace. Many jewellery pieces thus refer to the old precision crafts. Simultaneously, we see coarsely braided or woven products. Blackened and white silver, matt gold, and all metal shades from copper to bronze enhance the natural finish of the jewellery. Shades of red, orange, and brown bring a lively ethnic touch, inspired by the traditional crafts of North Africa. A symbiosis of precise craft techniques and poetic creativity can also be found in fashion, accessories, and interior design. Soft suede and rustic fabrics, striking fringes and loops, wool and linen, crochet and macramé appear in current collections from Robert Cavalli to Gucci.
Freely luxury
While the „Product Art” trend is defined by elements taken from nature and physical contact with the earth, in this case, fashion particularly shows us its discreet and sophisticated side. Chic fabrics, exclusive precious stones, and sophisticated accessories speak of the pleasure derived from being around exceptional objects. Meanwhile, it is not the ostentatious display of dazzling luxury goods, but tasteful restraint that marks the distinctiveness of this trend. A casual approach to such refined valuables has given it the name „Casual Luxury.” Flowing materials, such as silk, envelop the body with delicate patterns and soft ruffles, offering an elegant look combined with subtle pastels. Fashion plays a leading role here and serves as inspiration for jewellery designers, making beautiful individual rings, bangles, or necklaces a perfect complement to feminine grace. Rose, yellow, and white gold or platinum take on pastel nuances, subtle diamond bands, single pearls, and coloured stones add creative accents, while gently curved lines and shapes taken from nature emphasise the captivating character of the whole.
The article was published in Amberif Preview 2011