The Nostalgic Summer Camp Jewelry is Back

The summer camp jewelry trend is well-beloved on social media and will be this season’s go-to statement piece. Typically associated with pony beaded necklaces, colorful and funky-shaped plastic rings, and woven bracelets, such accessories are reminiscent of what you’d make during summer camp on school breaks. It’s a reminder of a much simpler and more innocent time in our lives.

Especially during a global pandemic and being forced to spend most of our time indoors, many turned to more nostalgic and eccentric styles as a means of escape. With that said, summer camp jewelry is an ode to the late ‘90s and early ‘00s. However, the resurgence of the said aesthetics is not a particularly new phenomenon in mainstream fashion. This year we’re seeing other familiar trends coming back, like low-rise jeans and serged seam shirts. 

While being in tune with our current affinity towards childhood nostalgia, this playful jewelry trend is also easily accessible due to its DIY-esque aesthetic and relatively inexpensive materials, making them popular among Millennials and Gen Z. But high fashion brands like Bottega Veneta and Versace have also put a luxury spin on the trend. Paired alone or with other jewelry, the kitschy motifs and fun colors serve as a refreshing break from the usual gold and silver chain alone.