A common theme in the accessory realm these days is nature. Everything from leaf shaped patterns to literal animal shaped pendants led me to believe that this “Back to the Earth” trend is here to stay for a while. Handmade (or things that just look that way) purses or bags, headbands, earrings, necklaces and scarves – or any other wearable item that evokes nature of some sort – such as woodland creatures, birds, or twigs would be thought of as “green.” Let’s take a look at some inspiration in the following categories:

Animal
The use of animal imagery, such as the buck complete with his antlers in this necklace, is both fun and whimsical. Leather that is tooled and decorated in a cuff or belt can be a definitive statement piece for the serious fashionista to consider. When combined with simple silhouettes, the pieces stand out in the best of ways. The feather trend in hair bands, earrings, and necklaces simply cannot be ignored.

Witness the plethora of celebrities and regular people sporting their own fine-feathered pieces! Look for color and texture to get the most out of this lightweight trend. The metal feather inspired necklace is another example of this hot look! By being both delicate and bold they are an easy way to update any existing dress or ensemble in your wardrobe.

Vegetable
Straw and hemp that are woven or even crocheted into a handbag looks so modern and fresh. The rough texture provides a good counterpoint to a more sleek fabric in your ensemble such as soft silks and cotton dresses. Macramé books and how to books can be a great score at the Goodwill if you are a crafty type, and I have run across quite a few in my many shopping trips.

When this simple knotting technique is combined with wooden beads, or even rough-hewn ceramic beads the look is one of a kind. Leaf inspired designs abound in so many ways this season, whether made of metal like this Chanel brooch, or flora and fauna painted on a wooden bangle, they keep the “green” fashion vibe going!

Mineral
Large stones and uneven texture provide drama for that natural look. A silver triple ring that seems to be growing moss could be considered a double whammy! You have both vegetable and mineral in one piece as well as a unique conversation starter. Cuffs and earrings with insect motifs of semi-precious, faux stone or cast metal can be a real winner when set against a neutral fashion backdrop.

As always, keep your eyes wide open to fashion possibility each and every time you go to the Goodwill Retail Store & Donation Center near you. “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle” is not just our slogan; it’s a great way to update your wardrobe or create your own style for a lot less than retail, and support your community programs that Goodwill offers as well. What could be more green that that?

askbjorn@goodwillsew.com

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