Jelly and plastic isn’t just for kids. Synthetic materials have become a fun summer trend that you can enjoy at any price point. Seen on the runways at Dolce & Gabanna (Plastic Alphabet Necklace), Marc Jacobs (piled on, thick bangles), and Jill Sander (the Anti-It Bag), this is one vibrant look you can enjoy while still looking glamourous.
Maybe Barbie was onto something with all the plastic accessories?
Jewelry
The first thing that probably comes to mind when one thinks of plastic accessories is bracelets. And yes, brightly coloured bangles are current for 2011, but rather than being an assortment of crazy colours they are paired in somewhat matching sets. They should look more like a gradient of one shade going up your arm to look current and put together. For example, try reds, pinks and dark oranges in different sizes and shapes stacked up your arm (or try another part of the colour wheel). Look for plastic rings, earrings and necklaces with bold-coloured baubles as well.
The bright neon jelly watch is also a huge hit in 2011. Functionality meets funky style with brands like Casio, Nixon, and Timex offering irresistible arm candy in a number of delightful shades. And yes, they can go with modern work wear to create a professional look.
You can also choose to top off your look with a pair of brightly coloured, plastic frame sunglasses, which come in a variety of wild hues and patterns this season.
Check out Anthropologie’s Quatro Plastic Chunky Bangles, $58. Available at Anthropologie.
Purses
Lot’s of purses come in shiny, plastic looking finishes (like patent leather). More popular now is the completely see through, acetate bag. Shaped like a shopping bag you would get from a store, but in a crayon-like colours, this is one purse you will need to make sure you don’t have anything incriminating inside for all of the world to see.
If you can’t afford a designer brand you can easily get a nylon look-a-like by a brand like Envirosax, $8.95. Good for the planet, your look and available at envirosax.com.
Shoes
Jellies come in a variety of styles and sizes. Indulge your inner child while still looking professional with a more adult pair of jeweled tone sandals or flats. You definitely have more options than Crocs!
You can also get plastic shoes in heels and wedges if you look hard enough. These playful and comfortable shoes can be found on melissa.com or by searching for “jelly” on endless.com under women’s shoes.
Check out Melissa Amazonista shoes in a number of hues.
Tips for Wearing
When trying to incorporate these bright hues into your outfit, make sure the rest of your outfit isn’t made up of all neutrals. Add a bright coloured shoe or purse to tie your outfit together and to make it look fun and intentional (as opposed to one bright red plastic bangle with a black suit). Of course some plastic will come in more safe shades like black, white, beige and tortoise shell if you’re not a fan of bold colour and want a more conservative look. Not all the shades have to match but they should go (i.e. be the same brightness or hue, be in the same colour family, be complimentary, etc.).
Image taken from the Marc Jacobs Spring/Summer 2011 RTW Collection.
This is also one of those great trends you can definitely find for cheap in thrift stores. Don’t forget to try putting a punch of colourful lipstick or eye shadow on as well to play up this look!
