Dishfunctional Designs: My Style Forecast For 2016: Part One: Karma's In Full Swing

Sunday, December 27, 2015

My Style Forecast For 2016: Part One: Karma's In Full Swing

I just got these amazing new jewelry components and I can't wait to start working with them! They are going to make some really cool necklaces...I might mix some chain with some hemp by intertwining hemp cord within some metal chain by weaving or braiding it with necklace chain. The hemp softens the design and makes it look earthy and organic, while the chain makes the design more structurally durable as well as gives it more value.

My take? Karma, Yoga, and Eastern Philosophy inspired motifs are hot for 2016!

Keeping with the theme of combining natural materials with metal, I might also add some thin strips of suede cord to the chain. One thing is for sure, I won't know exactly what the finished necklaces are going to look like until they are finished.

That's one of the most fun things about designing - the experimentation. You can think of an idea, sketch it out on paper or in a notebook, or have a pretty good idea of what you want your finished project to look like before you even sit down to create, but it doesn't always work that way. For me...I will usually study my focal component, and then going with whatever vibe I get from it (meaning the mood and feelings I get from it, and then whatever subsequent colors, hues, materials or types of stones I get an inclination to include due to the mood & feel of the main component), I will first chose my supporting components and materials around that, and then sit down to work and just let it go in whatever direction it goes from there. Sometimes things will come together quickly, other times it takes a little bit longer, but it's always a fun process.

As for my style forecast for 2016, be prepared to see plenty of Karma-themed trends coming back again (no pun intended), as well as a steady stream of straight up Bohemian and BoHo Chic style in clothing, home decor, jewelry, and crafts. Earthy colors and materials remain strong and pair with rich jewel toned accents and are softened with occasional sheer materials, laces, crochets, and macrames. I'm also hoping to see lots more greens and oranges in the year ahead! Be sure to visit again soon for more style forecasts for 2016!