Archive for the ‘Rhinestone Bracelets’ Category
Coveted Mardi Gras Throws
If you’ve ever witnessed a Mardi Gras parade, particularly in New Orleans, then you know how important throws can be. Traditionally, Mardi Gras beads are thrown out, but in addition to the colorful beads, there are some unusual throws. The Krewe of Tucks throws out miniature squirting toilets, plungers, and a flyswatter with the image of Friar Tuck, their namesake.
The all-female krewe, Muses, is well-known for distributing some of the most coveted items of the Carnival season. Muses gave out plush wildlife creatures in honor of the animals affected by the BP oil spill. Other coveted items are a glittery notepad, light-up hair barrettes, and a rhinestone bracelet. The “Museuzela” – a take on the plastic horn made infamous at last year’s World Cup – also made their debut.
An Abridged History of Rhinestone Jewelry
When you think of rhinestones, you might be forgiven for looking back fondly on the late ’70s and early ’80s. Back then, Glen Campbell had sent the popular fashion accessory into the stratosphere with his chart-topping hit “Rhinestone Cowboy.” In fact, rhinestones have been used as embellishments on garments and highlights in jewelry for centuries. In the 13th century, the merchant elite in Bohemia wore them in Prague and other cultural centers.
In the 1920s, famous fashion designer Coco Chanel was instrumental in bringing about a style revolution. The de facto dress code had changed from modest and conservative to loose and unrestrained. Colorful gems were all the rage, and the colored glass pieces of rhinestone jewelry became popular across America. As we all know, fashion is cyclical. It should come as no surprise that these accoutrements have once again found favor in fashionable circles.
The Best of the Best in Costume Jewelry
Although many people consider diamonds the gold standard for jewelry, that doesn’t mean you can’t find quality items using synthetic diamonds or rhinestones. It is impossible not to shine when you have something like this on.
Many of the very best designs were heavily influenced by the Art Deco movement. A rhinestone bracelet can be an elegant, high quality, and well-made alternative to a much more expensive diamond alternative. And rhinestone jewelry allows you to bring glamour wherever you go.