Unveiling the Future of Adornment: Vicenzaoro September 2017 Launches Trendbook 2019+
The global jewellery industry perpetually seeks foresight, an oracle to guide its intricate path through shifting consumer desires and evolving cultural landscapes. It was at the prestigious International Jewellery Exhibition, Vicenzaoro September 2017, that a beacon for this foresight was officially launched: the highly anticipated Trendbook 2019+. This seminal publication, meticulously crafted in collaboration with Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting, serves as the world’s leading observatory for jewellery trends, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the future of luxury and personal adornment.
Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting: The Compass for the Jewellery World
At the heart of the Trendbook’s authoritative insights lies Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting. Renowned globally as a powerhouse of market intelligence, this esteemed entity dedicates itself annually to the comprehensive study of trends within the dynamic luxury and jewellery sectors. Their rigorous methodologies, which blend expert analysis with extensive market research, culminate in the creation of the Trendbook – an indispensable resource for every stakeholder in the industry. Far from being a mere collection of observations, the Trendbook acts as a strategic tool, meticulously designed to introduce ‘mega trend’ forecasts. These predictions are calibrated to influence the evolution of consumer purchases and industry choices with an impressive 18 months of advance notice compared to the broader market, offering a crucial competitive edge.
Trendbook 2019+: Bridging the Gap Between Industry and the New Consumer
The Trendbook 2019+ distinguishes itself by offering a fresh, contemporary, and deeply emotional approach to connecting with the ‘new’ world of consumers. It transcends theoretical concepts, providing actionable insights that detail precisely how the entire jewellery industry can react, adapt, and innovate in response to emerging consumer habits. From the visionary designers conceptualizing future collections to the skilled goldsmiths bringing them to life, from the suppliers sourcing precious materials to the retailers engaging directly with the end-consumer, the Trendbook 2019+ offers a unified roadmap. Its strategic guidance empowers every segment of the supply chain to align their strategies, product development, and marketing efforts with the prevailing winds of consumer sentiment, ensuring relevance and fostering deeper engagement in an increasingly complex marketplace.
To provide clear, actionable direction, the latest Trendbook is thoughtfully organized into five distinct sections. Each section meticulously dissects a key trend predicted to shape the market over the subsequent 18 months, offering a granular view of the forces at play. These five pivotal sections are:
- Gender Neutralist-Neutralia
- Ethnical Modernist-Ethical Vision
- The Midult-Past References
- Retro Futurist-Parallel Realities
- The New Man-Masculinity Unmasked
Diving Deep into the Mega Trends of Tomorrow
1. Gender Neutralist-Neutralia: Embracing Authenticity and Imperfection
Originating from cultural shifts predominantly observed in the United States and Great Britain, the ‘Gender Neutralist-Neutralia’ trend stands as a powerful testament to the growing acceptance of imperfection and individuality. This movement is largely spearheaded by Millennials and Generation Z, demographics characterized by an acute awareness and open embrace of the “different,” the “imperfect,” and the “unusual.” These younger generations are actively rejecting traditional categories and rigid norms imposed by society, seeking instead self-expression and authenticity. For the jewellery sector, this translates into a demand for pieces that defy conventional gendered classifications. Consumers within this category are not looking for matching suites of jewellery; rather, they seek unique, mix-matched, and highly personal items. The core desire is authenticity – every purchase must resonate with their individual identity and stand as a genuine reflection of who they are, valuing personal narrative over prescriptive style.
This trend signifies a profound socio-cultural shift, where traditional boundaries in fashion and personal adornment are dissolving. Jewellery designers are thus challenged to move beyond binary notions, exploring fluid forms, versatile materials, and designs that can be interpreted and styled in countless personal ways. The focus shifts from “his and hers” to “mine,” emphasizing individual expression. Marketing strategies must also evolve, showcasing diverse models and narratives that celebrate uniqueness and imperfection, making jewellery truly inclusive and universally appealing.
2. Ethnical Modernist-Ethical Vision: The Conscience of Adornment
The ‘Ethnical Modernist-Ethical Vision’ trend underscores a profound shift in consumer values: the increasing search for ethical sustainability across all purchase decisions, particularly within the luxury sector. Modern consumers are more informed and conscientious than ever before, demanding transparency and accountability from brands. In the context of jewellery, this translates to a rigorous examination of sourcing practices, ensuring fair labor conditions, minimizing environmental impact, and supporting responsible mining. The demand for ethically sourced gemstones, conflict-free diamonds, recycled precious metals, and even lab-grown alternatives is on a steep ascent. Consumers want to understand the provenance of their jewellery, desiring pieces that tell a story of integrity and positive impact rather than exploitation or harm.
This trend compels the industry to prioritize sustainable practices throughout its entire supply chain. Brands that can demonstrate genuine commitment to ethical standards – through certifications, clear communication, and community engagement – will earn the trust and loyalty of this growing segment. The “modernist” aspect of this trend suggests that ethical concerns do not compromise aesthetic appeal; rather, they enhance it. Designers are incorporating sustainable materials and artisanal techniques into contemporary designs, creating pieces that are both beautiful and morally sound. Ethical jewellery is no longer a niche market; it is becoming a mainstream expectation, driving innovation in material science and supply chain management.
3. The Midult-Past References: The Savvy, Discerning Gen X
The ‘Midult-Past References’ trend brings into sharp focus a consumer group often overlooked but possessing immense purchasing power: Generation X. At the time of the Trendbook’s publication, this demographic was typically defined as being between 30-35 years of age, representing a mature and financially capable cohort. Characterized by a discerning eye and a desire for enduring value, these consumers are powerfully attracted to ultra-luxury brands. Their purchases are driven by a quest for uniqueness and products that possess an almost collectible quality, capable of maintaining or even appreciating in value over time. Unlike younger generations who might prioritize novelty, Gen X values heritage, craftsmanship, and investment-worthy pieces.
This group’s appreciation for “past references” manifests in a fondness for classic designs, vintage-inspired aesthetics, and timeless pieces that evoke a sense of history and legacy. They seek jewellery that speaks to their refined taste, offers exclusivity, and symbolizes lasting quality. For brands, understanding the Midult means offering designs that blend classic elegance with contemporary sensibilities, emphasizing superior craftsmanship, enduring materials, and perhaps even offering bespoke services. Marketing to this segment should highlight the investment aspect, the artistry, and the heirloom potential of jewellery, appealing to their desire for luxury that transcends fleeting trends and offers tangible, lasting value.
4. Retro Futurist-Parallel Realities: Glamour Through Time
The ‘Retro Futurist-Parallel Realities’ trend represents an intriguing cultural phenomenon where consumers navigate the future by looking to the glamorous aspects of the past. Specifically, it draws inspiration from the optimism, technological marvels, and distinctive aesthetics of the mid-20th century – particularly the vibrant decades of the 1950s and 1960s. This isn’t merely about nostalgia; it’s about reinterpreting the past’s vision of the future, blending vintage charm with forward-thinking design elements. It’s a playful exploration of “what if” scenarios, creating “parallel realities” where the elegance of bygone eras meets imaginative, sometimes whimsical, interpretations of technological advancement and space-age optimism.
In jewellery design, this trend translates into bold geometric shapes, innovative use of materials, vibrant color palettes, and distinctively architectural forms reminiscent of Art Deco but with a futuristic twist. Think of the sleek lines of a 1950s car, the atomic patterns of mid-century modern design, or the space-inspired motifs that captured the public’s imagination during the early days of space exploration. Pieces might feature unusual gemstone cuts, enamel work, or unconventional settings that evoke a sense of glamorous innovation. This trend allows for creative storytelling, inviting designers and consumers alike to escape into a world where the past’s most elegant visions of the future come to life through sparkling adornment, offering a sense of sophisticated escapism.
5. The New Man-Masculinity Unmasked: Expanding Horizons for Male Jewellery
Last but certainly not least, ‘The New Man-Masculinity Unmasked’ spells incredibly positive things for the male jewellery industry. This trend recognizes a significant cultural evolution: men are becoming increasingly open, curious, and comfortable with personal adornment, shedding traditional inhibitions about wearing jewellery. The modern man, as identified by the Trendbook, is self-aware, confident, and not afraid to be “pampered” – embracing personal style and self-expression as integral parts of his identity. This represents a stark departure from past generations where men’s jewellery was often limited to watches, wedding bands, or discreet cufflinks.
Today’s man is exploring a wider range of accessories, including rings beyond the wedding band, sophisticated bracelets, statement necklaces, and even brooches or lapel pins. The designs appeal to a variety of tastes, from minimalist and architectural to bold and expressive, often incorporating materials like leather, steel, and unconventional gemstones alongside traditional gold and silver. This expanding market segment presents immense opportunities for designers and retailers to innovate in men’s jewellery, offering pieces that cater to diverse styles, personal narratives, and occasions. The influence of celebrities, athletes, and social media figures proudly sporting various forms of jewellery further normalizes and accelerates this trend, paving the way for a more diverse and vibrant future for male adornment.
Charting the Course for Tomorrow’s Jewellery Landscape
The Trendbook 2019+, as unveiled at Vicenzaoro September 2017, stands as a critical compass for the global jewellery sector. By meticulously forecasting these profound shifts in consumer behaviour and cultural values, Vicenzaoro and Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting empower the entire industry – from the smallest artisan workshop to the largest luxury conglomerate – to adapt, innovate, and thrive. The insights contained within its pages are not merely observations; they are catalysts for strategic decision-making, ensuring that the exquisite world of jewellery remains eternally relevant, beautiful, and connected to the evolving desires of its global audience. Embracing these trends is not just about staying competitive; it’s about actively shaping the future of adornment, crafting pieces that resonate deeply with the sensibilities of tomorrow’s consumers and continue to captivate with timeless allure.