Emerging into the world: finding your style after isolation

 

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” This famous opening line from Charles Dickens’ novel succinctly summarizes how many of us are feeling these days. It’s true that the stress and upheaval caused by the pandemic has affected us to our core… In some ways, we will never be the same.

And yet, as the restrictions in many countries gradually ease up, we find ourselves presented with a unique gift:

..to step into the world once again.

 

Only this time, taking nothing for granted.

As we slowly rediscover and re-experience the social parts of our life that we so sorely missed, questions of a more personal nature arise. Many of us took the time during quarantine to reacquaint with ourselves; to discover the things that truly matter to us; to decipher which objects and subjects really spark joy.

In this context, our relationship to fashion and style took a new turn — one of self-exploration and self-expression. No more an external statement poised to impress others: accessories, clothes and makeup became a tangible, internal way of redefining our sense of self and brightening our mood.

And it’s exactly this newfound notion that we are bringing with us, now that the quarantine is (almost) over.

So how do you emerge into the world this summertime? How can the power of jewelry help you reclaim your personal style? What new stories will your sartorial and accessories choices tell? We’ve been pondering a lot on these questions here at Christian Zane, during these transitioning times. And we hope the following will inspire you:

 

Dazzle yourself first

Now that you’re slowly navigating the outside world once again, old habits may resurface. A need to behave or dress a certain way, in order to stand out or mingle anonymously into the crowd… But by now, you know better. You know that in the performance of fashion and style, you are both the skilled performer and the main, dazed viewer.

So don’t be afraid to don impressing, statement jewelry pieces if you feel like it. Necklaces like our eye-catching Leah, with Swarovski crystals boldly balancing the hand-sourced, vintage gems, will help you write your new manifesto of stylish independence. And if people look at you with approval, or even admiration? It won’t matter so much — as long as your own reflection in the mirror is pleased with what she sees.

Get (carefully) back to nature

The cocoon of your own home may have been loving and nourishing during this time of isolation. But nothing will nourish your soul more than a walk amidst green trees, with the sunlight caressing your skin. Allow yourself to fall back into a communion with nature; visit neglected parks, hiking trails and beaches; rejoice in the bounty of early summer flowers.

Of course, you should be mindful and keep a safe distance from others. If you’re worried that a mask may disguise your facial features and make you look unfriendly, remember that when you smile from the heart, it reaches your eyes.

So wave a hand at your fellow humans and let the glint of happiness in your eyes (and perhaps, a sparkly pair of Christian Zane earrings or a brooch) communicate how grateful you feel to be outdoors with them once again.

Live life colorfully

Life may be returning to a certain familiarity now — but there are still stark differences. Differences that remind us what happened to the world during these months and what we need to do to make sure it doesn’t happen again. And so, as you’re socializing with friends and loved ones, treat each meeting with the reverent flamboyance it deserves. Turn each commonly experienced moment into a soulful celebration.

How to do that? Internally, by anchoring yourself in the now and cherishing every fleeting moment; conforming to the new restrictions without allowing them to affect you. And externally, by wearing bright, happy colors that catch the sun rays and communicate your festive mood, like our Myla necklace that exemplifies the label's playful sense of color.

 

Don’t be afraid to clash patterns and hues; it’s a brave new world after all. Emerge into it.

 

 

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