By Laaleh Mizani, Independent Costume Designer
The following is an excerpt from “Lights, Camera, Carats: A Look at This Winter’s Diamond Trends,” written for the American Gem Society’s SPECTRA® magazine.
As Vogue identifies modern heirlooms as a key trend, we are seeing new life breathed into antique styles. We’re drawn to pieces that hold meaning, tell a backstory—possibly through generations—and give them a sense of rediscovering something new.
This rebirth illustrates how jewelry archives are increasingly tapped as sources of authenticity and prestige, adding a layer of history. The same is true in how costume designers interpret this trend: where did this character get their jewelry, and how can it create cinematic intrigue?
Refer back to HBO’s “The Gilded Age” and lose yourself in the endless loops of intricate filigree and ornate metalwork, all thrones upon which the diamonds reside.
As we see what’s old is becoming new again, Christopher Designs is mastering this trend—whether it’s elaborate Belle Epoque styles reminiscent of the Gilded Age’s treasure, or crisp, geometric ones that recall Art Deco architecture.
You can even get your own star-themed glitz from the New York-based designer, as well. Cross the Atlantic back to London’s Downton Abbey finale that takes place in the 1930s. Lady Mary opens the film in a breathtaking crimson silk gown, fashioned with diamond dress clips and spikey diamond chandeliers emerging from her bobbed hair, reminiscent of Christopher Design’s L’Amour Crisscut® diamond star earrings (as pictured).
Take a look at more timeless trends from our American Gem Society (AGS) members. When you’re ready to find your next antique-inspired piece, find an AGS jeweler near you at ags.org/findajeweler.
About the author:
Laaleh Mizani is a costume designer for film and television. She has worked on hits such as In the Heights, Dr. Death, Ocean’s Eight, The Equalizer, Blank Slate, The Blacklist, The OA, and many more productions. Ms. Mizani has a BFA from Parsons School of Design.