3-2-1 Summer Camp! Word Play

Jun 10

Get talking

Colorful pony bead and alphabet bead jewelry have a definite time stamp in rave culture. Whether you were there in the `90s or not, “kandi” bracelets started as a DIY exchange between friends, usually with each other’s names on them or sometimes the raver’s credo “PLUR.” Fashion has since taken note. And after being isolated last year and jonesing for simply talking to friends and family, wearing jewelry that says what you’re thinking or feeling feels so timely. Anyone can appreciate colorful letter bead jewelry, and here are five conversation-starters.

**Uni-Corn**

Paris-based Timeless Pearly was started by Leslie Chetrit whose fantastical, handcrafted collections are balanced by classic elements. Smile. Happy. Rainbow. This triple strand represents a “childish colorful universe” that puts us in a playful mood.
Set of three multi-color beaded necklaces, $334 at Timeless Pearly

**Luv You**

Like many designers, Frasier Sterling started her company because she couldn’t find what she wanted: trendy, layer-friendly pieces at an affordable price. Personalization is big for her, or you can buy these ready-made danglers that say it all.
Plastic letters and glass seed beads on 14k gold plated brass huggies “Luv You” earrings, $28 at Frasier Sterling

**Sweet Escape**

Designer Venessa Arizaga is influenced by travel, particularly where she works and lives; her playful pieces project the energy of NYC and the aesthetic of island life in Puerto Rico. Her phrase necklaces and bracelets have been a hit since their inception, and it was only natural she’d offer a DIY kit for fans to pick and choose what they want to say (and eat).
“Say Anything” DIY Sweet Escape necklace, $75 at Venessa Arizaga

**Empower & Inspire**

The passions of the sisters behind Dannijo, Danielle Snyder and Jodie Snyder-Morel, shine through their conversation-starting pieces. This inspirational bracelet duo is just one example of a message they want the wearer to embrace as we all push forward together.
“Empower and Inspire” beaded bracelet set, $85 at Dannijo

**Aloha**

Irem Sesigur began Maison Irem in 2013 after struggling to find what she wanted in the jewelry realm. It turned out well for the Mediterranean-born Amsterdam-based designer, as her designs are stylish and chic with a hint of kitsch, like this necklace. Anything that takes us to Hawaii is welcome in our jewelry box.
“Aloha” beaded necklace, $139.50 at Maison Irem

Editor: Samantha Durbin

Market Editor: Johannah Masters

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