Diamonds are a girl’s best friend; but soon enough, bungee chords and twine rope will be too. A new Proenza Schouler jewelry line, which is part of its Resort 2012 collection, brings on a new charm (literally) to the world of accessories.

The collection came into fruition last spring when designers Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez were judges at the Hyeres Fashion Festival. The duo, who are mostly known for their timeless PS1 totes, collaborated with jewelry line Alex & Lee – a San Francisco-based jewelry brand who’s pieces are often hand-made by designers and hand-picked from flea markets. McCollough and Hernandez approached Alex & Lee after admiring some of their vintage pieces that were for sale in the Los Angeles vintage clothing, jewelry and shoe boutique, The Way We Wore.

The line of costume jewelry blends the ancient past with the ultra-modern future. It’s aesthetic is like Egypt’s King Tut meets Pocahontas’ Mother Willow meets Star Wars’ R2D2. Mineral stones, jewels and gems are layered atop rustic chest-plates, hung by colorful cables and tied together with rock-climbing carabiners. These elements, though an eclectic combination, are paired together to construct one-of-a-kind accessories.

Proenza Shouler’s necklaces and bracelets are anything but dainty. Each piece is its own elaborate work of art. The collection includes futuristic bright-colors like magenta, lime green, electric-indigo and blood-orange; but also embraces cooler, natural hues with maroon, taupe, rustic and golden tones. The prices range from $175 for basic chord bracelets to more than $3,000. The Crystal Candy necklace above retails for $3,450. Nevertheless, the designs are bold and beautiful. 

Dare to be different with Proenza Schouler’s new jewelry line. The designer’s were innovative with their mottled creations; now it’s your turn to be inventive when accessorizing outfits with these unique pieces.

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