Ancient Egyptians, you’ve got to love ‘em. The mysterious beings, renowned for mummifying bodies, constructing pyramids and wearing a whole lot of eye make-up, invented a vast array of everyday items from tables to toothpaste, wigs to clocks — items we now take for granted. But one thing we do adore as much as Tutan and co. is jewellery.
Back in the good ol’ days of scarabs, stone pillows and sacrifice, your brother, mother, sister daughter, son and uncle would’ve all worn jewellery, no matter their income. And now that fashion suddenly has a serious case of Egyptomania, we are taking the time to appreciate jewellery designs of 3050 BC.
Major brands have been going crazy for the theme since Pre-Fall 19, and since, Egyptian looks have been championed by the likes of Janelle Monáe and Pharell Williams. What sparked this interest? Perhaps the word of a big-budget remake of Cleopatra in the pipeline (did someone say Scarlett Johansson?).
So, if your style is becoming dryer than the Sahara desert, add some Nerfetiti chic to your look through the form of accessories. Think gold: the colour Ancient Egyptians associated with the Gods and the sun; think gems: the Ancient Egyptians believed that they had superpowers.
Where can I get me some Ancient Egyptian-inspired jewellery? From Susan Caplan Vintage. We spoke to Susan Caplan about curating jewellery and her Valley-of-the-Kings inspired collection.
"All the jewellery in our vintage collection is authentic. From the studio, I am able to witness the evolutionary journey of jewellery design over the years. One style that keeps resurfacing in different forms is that of the ancient Egyptians as seen in the 1990's Vintage Elizabeth Taylor Earrings."
"It's not hard to understand why adorning themselves was of great importance and jewellery was seen as a status symbol; worn by both men and women. Their jewellery was typically very statement in aesthetic; think wide collars, brightly coloured beads, animals, gold, copper, charms etc."
"It was meant to be seen, which is the main reason why I believe it has stood the test of time - there is always a place in fashion for statement jewellery, that accessory that finishes off a look with great excitement."
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