Metals, both gold and silver, are becoming hugely important in fashion. For many years, we were focused on delicate stacks of necklaces, ear-scapes that you could only see up close, logo belts, and either sleek minimal bags or, conversely, heavily logoed ones. However, there has been a turn of the tide—especially regarding accessories. It’s bolder, more statement-making, and involves metal—and/or sometimes wood, but mostly, it’s about hardware details taking the stage.

Now, these metals can be more architectural or organic in nature. We see this in various aspects of accessories—from statement jewelry to eye-catching shoes. Both design philosophies offer a unique opportunity to elevate your wardrobe and showcase your individuality.

And as I’ve said before (ugh, so often I feel like a broken record), accessories are an easy place to try out a trend, update your outfit, and express your personal style. If this aesthetic resonates with you, GREAT! If it doesn’t, that’s also great! My job is to make sure you’re aware, and trend INFORMED. Your job is to decide if it works for you. As with any style suggestions or trends, you have agency in this. It is your individual style, which means you have ownership. It’s not a dictatorship. I’m making recommendations, and we are partners in this process, capiche?

Architectural & Organic Hardware in Accessories

When I say architectural and organic design, it often has to do with the hardware of the accessories - the buckles, the drop, the studs, the heel. It’s the shape as well as the material that is making the statement. These details are the difference makers that set an accessory apart from the pack. AND it is also the hardware that makes an outfit feel more modern and current.

The architectural lines are angular and geometric. And the organic lines are more fluid and undulating. Both are equally current and “in”. It becomes a pick-your-own adventure, where you get to decide what type of metal accent feels more like you.

The great part about this resurgence of metals is that one bold metal accessory can change up the entire look. Think about adding a bold buckle belt to delicate layered necklaces and an all-leather bag, and adding just that one element instantly modernizes the entire outfit. And if you’re a more is more kind of gal, you can mix many metal statement accessories to create a very impactful ensemble. 

Statement-making metals is a trend that you can find at all price points too! I’m highlighting the designer ones that were the originators, and I’m linking some more budget friendly options as well.

Statement-Making Hardware Accessories

Jewelry: Hardware Art

Architectural jewelry draws inspiration from the structured beauty of buildings and geometric forms. Think clean lines, sharp angles, and repeating patterns. These pieces often feature metals like silver, gold, or even industrial materials like steel, creating a sense of modernity and sophistication.

On the other hand, organic jewelry celebrates the fluidity and imperfections found in nature. Inspired by leaves, flowers, or even the human form, these pieces embrace curves, asymmetry using metals and natural materials like wood, stones, or pearls. An example of organic jewelry design is the iconic Tiffany Elsa Peretti® Bean® collection, with its smooth contours and sensuous curves reminiscent of the natural bean shape yet made out of metal - so it is BOTH architectural and organic.

When it comes to jewelry …do you gravitate towards the boldness of architectural design or the gentle elegance of organic forms? Statement jewelry serves as a powerful form of self-expression. A chunky geometric necklace can add a touch of edginess to a simple outfit, while an organic pair of earrings with flowing lines can complement a romantic ensemble.

Jewelry:

• Elsa Peretti® Small Bone Cuff for Tiffany & Co.: Another iconic design from Tiffany, this cuffs fluid shape and open design epitomize organic elegance.

• Alexis Bittar's Lucite® bangles and earrings: These pieces often feature embedded natural elements like flowers or insects, creating a striking juxtaposition of organic and man-made materials.

• Roxanne Assoulin’s Heart Pendant: This puffy heart can be worn a few different ways and adds a soft statement because of the more fluid lines.

Shop the jewelry:

Belts as Architectural & Organic Hardware Statements

Belts, often overlooked as mere functional accessories, can be transformed into striking style statements. They often serve as outfit finishers, aka a Third Piece, especially in warmer months when layering is not an option. 

Fashion-wise, we are moving away from overtly logoed belts. Statement belts feel more current. Architectural belts might feature geometric buckles, laser-cut leather, or even metallic accents that create a sense of structure and order. On the other hand, organic belts could showcase a metal buckle that undulates fluidly or natural materials like woven raffia, braided leather, or even repurposed fabrics, adding interest to your outfit more softly.

Belts:

• Isabel Marant's studded leather belts: These belts feature irregularly placed studs, creating an organic and edgy feel.

• Free People's woven belts: These belts showcase woven patterns and an aged brass buckle, adding a bohemian touch to any outfit.

• Khaite’s Axel belt: This slim belt has a clasp made from three geometric shapes, giving it an architectural yet lady-like polish.

Shop the belts:

Bags: Carrying Hardware in Style

Handbags, more than just vessels for our essentials, can become wearable works of art that put the finishing touch on a look. Architectural bags often boast clean lines, structured shapes, and minimalist hardware, creating a sense of refined sophistication. Think boxy clutches, sleek totes, or even backpacks with geometric panels or hardware. Organic bags, in contrast, embrace softer silhouettes, natural textures, and handcrafted details. Look for slouchy hobo bags, woven totes, or even bucket bags with wood or metal accents.

Bags:

• JW Anderson’s Corner bag: This bag's unique, chain link hardware and structured shape creates a sense of geometric grace.

• Cult Gaia's Azariah bag: This suede bag with its distinctive half-moon shape and sculptural hardware coil has a very modern feel. 

• Marni's Trunk bag: This bag's structured, accordion-like design is a testament to architectural precision.

Shop the bags:

Shoes: Stepping into Architectural & Organic Hardware Design

Footwear, the foundation of any outfit, offers a unique canvas for architectural and organic expression. Architectural shoes often feature angular heels, geometric cutouts, or even metallic embellishments, creating a sense of boldness and confidence. Organic shoes, on the other hand, embrace softer lines, natural materials, and earthy tones. Look for sandals with woven straps, boots with stacked wooden heels, or even sneakers with floral embroidery.

Shoes:

• Ancient Greek Sandals' leather sandals: These sandals, often featuring woven straps and natural embellishments, embody a timeless, earthy aesthetic.

• Amina Muaddi’s shoes: They are known for their statement-making heels. They look geometric and also give a sturdy yet feminine feel to the shoes.

• Tory Burch shoes: These shoes often feature pierced hardware and unexpected angles, pushing the boundaries of footwear design.

Shop the shoes:

Mixing & Matching: Creating a Unique Look

The beauty of architectural and organic design lies in their versatility. Don't be afraid to experiment by combining different elements to create a look that's uniquely yours. Pair a structured blazer with a flowing skirt, or juxtapose a geometric necklace with a pair of organic earrings. The key is to balance statement pieces with more understated elements, allowing each accessory to shine without overwhelming the overall outfit. Is your wardrobe balanced?! Take the quiz to find out! Learn more about balancing your wardrobe here.

Architectural and organic design offer a wealth of inspiration for those seeking to express their personal style through accessories. Whether you gravitate towards the clean lines of geometric forms or the gentle curves of nature-inspired pieces, there's a world of statement-making possibilities waiting to be discovered. By embracing these contrasting yet complementary aesthetics, you can curate a wardrobe that's both visually striking and authentically you. So go ahead, experiment, and let your accessories tell your unique style story!