In an age of mass fashion, finding your own “personal style” is becoming increasingly difficult.  When it comes to our jewelry, there is now an emphasis on trying to find unique one-of-a-kind pieces.  You want your jewelry to be special and tell a story, so that you don’t just blend in with the crowd.  The look for accessories this summer has us returning to more traditional ladylike styles, incorporating jewelry that we previously would have deemed old-fashioned or over the top.

So where are we going to turn for inspiration and advice on this season’s sophisticated style?  And where are we going to find this unique vintage jewelry collection that is a must have for the summer?

Believe it or not, there is a woman you know with all the answers.  She has a vast knowledge of vintage accessories, and a large collection of the unique jewelry pieces we’re all trying to find.  So who is this style guru with the “in” on all the latest looks?  Grandma! 

I know what you’re thinking.  When you see your mamaw in her muumuu and with her hair in hot curlers, you don’t exactly think chic.  Think about it though.  You know she has great over-the-top vintage pieces that you can be sure no one else will be wearing, and she will probably be willing to share them with you.  In fact I bet your grandmother would love to talk fashion with her fabulous granddaughter.  She would be flattered you think she’s hott!

Still not convinced?  Let’s break down some of the latest looks that are sure to be in every grandma’s jewelry box.

*** Be Jeweled!  Antique brooches are back in a big way!  Covered in precious and semi-precious stones, they are a great way to add instant glamour to any outfit.  All major designers from Prada to Moschino have big oversized vintage-inspired brooches in their collections this season.  A noticeable conversation piece, these pins are definitely the accessory of the moment.

*** Be Classic!  Pearls pearls pearls!  Whether they are South Seas, cultured, or just your best old Mardi Gras beads, pearls are a must this season.  For a modern take on this classic look pile ‘em on!  Jumble and layer them around your neck to spice up an old dress for a party.

*** Be Charmed!  Another big trend this summer is charms.  They’re not just for little girls any more.  You’ll find yourself putting them on necklaces, on bracelets, and now even on rings, or just hanging them loose on bags and belts as an added touch.

*** Be Dazzled!  It’s all about bold bracelets and big rings!  Nothing gives you instant Bling more than a beautiful oversized cocktail ring.  Blue sapphire, amethyst, turquoise, citrine, watermelon tourmaline… with so many beautiful stones to pick from, the sky is the limit to the color and style you can choose.  Big bracelets are back as well.  Load up on bold gold bangles for instant jet-set glam.

*** Be Different!  Coral has been cherished as a priceless gem since prehistoric times.  It has been popular with cultures worldwide for its hardness, beauty, and appealing hues.  The trend on catwalks this spring/summer is using natural organic material such as coral to make beautiful one-of-a-kind necklaces and jewelry.  The bold shapes and royal hues of coral mixed with earthy gems really make a dramatic statement!

This vintage revival extends to fashion gear as well this summer.  Huge bold bags and totes are very popular.  Silk print scarves are chic again.  And of course there’s the quintessential, silk flowers, made popular again by Sex and the City star Sarah Jessica Parker.   A few short years ago we would never have looked at our hott granny gear as an asset, but classic is making a comeback.  Summer is here, and this season fashion is fun again.  If we can just find it in ourselves to be a little more playful with our jewelry, and to use our new found fashionista for advice, we should have this summer’s look down!

So next time you go to Grandma’s house for Sunday dinner, listen up, because you may just learn a little something about style!