2K Jewelry For The Win: How The Resurgence In Y2K Trends Is Leading To More Sustainable Methods Of Jewelry Production
When it comes to sustainable production in fashion, most people immediately think of ethical substitutes such as vegan leather or faux fur. Although these are praise-worthy swaps to make with your own wardrobe choices, this mindset does not always seem to carry over into the world of accessories. It is often overlooked that many commonly worn accessories, jewelry specifically, can harm the environment as well.
Sustainable jewelry is jewelry that can be traced through its production process, or jewelry that employs recycled materials. Unfortunately, many of the methods through which traditional jewelry (metal, diamonds, or gemstones) is formed are not transparent or considerate of our planet. It is estimated that just to mine one diamond, 250 tons of Earth must be displaced for every single carat. Mining and gemstone extraction can also contribute to air pollution, water pollution, and ecosystem damage -- and this is only part of the problem. Most jewelry sold in stores today is made of metals and minerals derived from some of the most impoverished regions of the planet, subjecting laborers to poor work conditions and local residents to even poorer surroundings.
Now that you’ve gotten the inside scoop on the dark side behind your innocent shiny embellishments, you may be wondering what you can do to minimize buying unethical jewelry. Well, with the modern re-emergence of many 2000s inspired styles of clothing and jewelry underway, it seems you’re in luck. Recycled plastic rings, neon-colored accessories, and rhinestones galore, originally popular decades ago, are now reclaiming their trendy title.
Ariana Grande wearing Y2K
https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/ariana-grande-wearing-bonbonwhims-chunky-ring-48298303
Celebrities and fashion role models such as Ariana Grande, Devon Lee Carlson, and Dua Lipa are participating in wearing Y2K jewelry, setting the tone for bright, chunky trinkets to be the look of the season. Much of this jewelry repurposes plastic, melting it down and using it to craft new creations, or uses responsibly sourced metals and gems.
La Manso - If you haven’t seen these amazingly creative and bold rings online, then prepare to ogle (and be warned, bringing this brand to your attention may cause damage to your bank account). Barcelona-based accessory brand La Manso became all the rage this past year, after being spotted on the likes of Bella Hadid, Miley Cyrus, and about every influencer under the sun. The woman-owned brand, which was a passion project of Adriana Manso, melts down old plastic and re-molds it into funky rings of different shapes and sizes. The brand also offers hairclips and purses made from repurposed or recycled vintage materials. Upcycled and utterly adorable -- what more could you ask for?
Where to Buy: https://fave.co/3DugPLb
Image Sourced from: https://lamanso.shop and https://www.instagram.com/la_manso/
Image Sourced from: https://lamanso.shop and https://www.instagram.com/la_manso/
BonBonWhimsClub - BonBonWhims, founded by Clare Ngai, makes playful pieces reminiscent of childhood accessories. The brand uses deadstock plastic knick-knacks and ornaments and incorporates them into pieces that complement any outfit. This is a healthy and clever alternative to damaging the environment with every piece made. All of their products are 100% unique, created with love, and consideration for the environment.
Where to Buy: https://fave.co/3cn2CDK
Image Sourced from: https://www.instagram.com/thebonbonwhimsclub/ and https://bonbonwhims.com
Image Sourced from: https://www.instagram.com/thebonbonwhimsclub/ and https://bonbonwhims.com
Katkim NYC - When I think of Y2K, not only do I think of bright tones and flashy accessories, but I also think of glitter to the max! Katkim, created by designer Katherine Kim, offers many pieces that incorporate shiny, sparkly pavé jewels, making them fit for a binged out 2000s look. Sustainability is at the forefront of the brand’s vision, as every piece is handmade locally in Los Angeles. Katkim uses recycled gold in its jewelry and all diamonds are conflict-free. This brand is a bit on the pricier side, but it’s a price worth paying for top quality and environmental consideration. It is important, if attempting to practice sustainability, to extend “green” ideologies to many different parts of our lives. When it comes to fashion, there is often more than meets the eye to the production method of garments and accessories alike. If you want to join the Y2K craze while also making better choices for the environment, then these are the brands for you.
Where to Buy: https://fave.co/30D8Fl6
Image Sourced from: https://katkimfinejewelry.com/collections/earrings and https://www.instagram.com/_katkim/
Image Sourced from: https://katkimfinejewelry.com/collections/earrings and
Article by Kayla Curtis-Evans, Contributing Sustainable Editor PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Lekha Samala, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
