Editor’s Note
This article explores the growing trend of personal expression through jewelry, highlighting how unique, statement pieces are being chosen to complement minimalist fashion and reveal personal style.
When Athena Calderone, founder of EyeSwoon, selected her bridal jewelry for her recent vow renewal in Umbria, she opted for two statement pieces to complement her minimalist Dior dress: vintage earrings from the 1920s (a gift from Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent) and a sapphire pin.
she tells Vogue.
Her instincts align with a broader trend. While past brides often chose simple, classic pieces like diamond princess-cut engagement rings and plain gold bands, more women are now opting for unique accessories. Pinterest’s research for its 2025 wedding trends report found that Gen Z overwhelmingly favors vintage and maximalist jewelry. Searches for pink diamond engagement rings surged by 349%, followed by sapphire rings (328%) and brown diamonds (179%). Interest in mixed metal stacks also saw triple-digit growth. Notably, searches for 1920s-style engagement rings skyrocketed by 1,458%.
the report noted.
Jean Prounis, founder of the New York-based jewelry brand Prounis (inspired by ancient Greek designs and Art Deco-era New York), recently hosted a popular “vow salon” with Desert Vintage in Brooklyn Heights. The event showcased tome-like, unpolished gold hand-wrought rings, many featuring antique diamonds.
Prounis tells Vogue.
Los Angeles-based jeweler Jennifer Meyer also observes a growing trend toward experimental bridal jewelry. While diamond tennis studs and bracelets remain top sellers, many customers are choosing pieces like dangling gold four-prong diamond earrings, which Meyer describes as a “fun, bold look.” Meyer, who is planning her own wedding, hopes to wear sapphires on her big day.
Reflecting on her own vow renewal jewelry, Calderone drew inspiration from Art Deco’s clean, rigid lines for her collection with John Hardy, giving them a modern update.
she says.
Fashion designers are incorporating this trend into bridal wear. During a recent bridal fashion week, Vivienne Westwood showcased looks with body-length silver necklaces. Designer Danielle Frankel offers a line of painted clay flower earrings alongside her avant-garde dresses.
This rise in vintage-inspired jewelry and colored gems coincides with peak interest in minimalist fashion, exemplified by brands like The Row and Toteme. The pared-back aesthetic of minimalist wedding fashion often allows more room for statement accessories. The enduring appeal of both vintage-inspired pieces and colored gems is their timeless ability to make a statement.