Back To The Future

From hit throwback television shows like Stranger Things and Glow to the comeback of acid wash jeans and statement jumpsuits, the 2020s are jam-packed with nostalgia for the 1980s. A decade synonymous with rebellious aesthetics, iconic films and brand new genres of music, the ethos of the 80s continues to shape pop culture throughout the 21st century. Here, Vock & Vintage shares how to upgrade your jewelry collection with a modern rendition of bold 1980s style.

The cultural evolutions of each decade are often reflected in the fashion of the era. The 1980s ushered in a new generation of women to the workforce, with many occupying high powered positions in booming industries. This new feminine purchasing power sparked a migration from delicate styles found throughout the mid-century period, replaced instead with daring and experimental alternatives. Since women didn’t need to rely on men to buy them jewelry any longer, this new generation of empowered women could utilize jewels as a means of personal expression.

Bursting with glitz, glam and eye-popping neon hues, 80s statement jewelry added an extra dimension to fashion-forward ensembles. The “Bold and Gold” trend saw jewelry designers working with larger pieces of precious metals to craft chunky cuffs, large rounded necklaces and drop earrings. In an effort to lower prices, jewelry makers began to mix and match materials, like the popular high-contrast combo of platinum, crystal and gold. Gemstones were also incorporated to compliment the bright colors found in trendy 80s clothing, often adorned with smaller settings of diamonds. These style fundamentals can be seen in Donna Vock’s head-turning Lapis, Turquoise, Diamond, and Blue Sapphire Cuff, as well as Vock’s playful Handmade Silver Link Necklace.

A quintessential 80s outfit would be incomplete without a striking pair of earrings. The “door knocker” hoop soared into popularity in the early part of the decade, often sported by Madonna, Brooke Shields and other 1980s it-girls. Large button earrings were a chic alternative to chandelier or hoop styles, often anchored by large pearls or thick braided gold. For an 80s-inspired look with a touch of contemporary luxury, pair a fun, curly updo with Donna Vock’s 18KYG Textured Wood Door Knocker Earrings, or the unique Turquoise, South Sea Cultered Pearl, and Diamond Fan Earrings.

Multi-strand neck adornments were often spotted on Cyndi Lauper, Princess Diana and the runways of Chanel. Seen in varying lengths, from chokers to 36” inch chains, these pieces incorporated pearls, beads and gems to create a twinkling, multi-colored effect. Donna Vock’s moody blue Labradorite, Tanzanite, Hematite, and Tahitian Pearl Necklace features five rows of rare stone, pearl and crystal and measures 29 inches in length, which can be easily paired with an 80s-esque off-shoulder sleeve dress or top.