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FASHION – Earring the style changes for the season ahead

The only accessory you need this season is a pair of bold and beautiful earrings, if the catwalks are anything to go by. It's a trend that'll have you hooked, says Katie Wright

Christopher Kane Spring/ Summer 2017 London Fashion Week show at Tate Britain, London
Christopher Kane Spring/ Summer 2017 London Fashion Week show at Tate Britain, London Christopher Kane Spring/ Summer 2017 London Fashion Week show at Tate Britain, London

ECONOMIC uncertainty has been linked to the rise and fall of hemlines ever since the Great Depression, and now Brexit has been blamed for this season's biggest jewellery trend.

The return of hefty, attention-grabbing earrings to the catwalks is a reflection of our desire for pieces that offer major impact but don't cost the earth, apparently.

Whatever the reason, it's a trend we're getting behind, because what's not to love about jangly, dangly jewels that ALWAYS illicit compliments?

Here's how to accessorise your earlobes now...

STRIKE A MISMATCH

Rule number one of the earring renaissance: they don't have to match.

At Marni, Tibi and JW Anderson, ornate shoulder-grazers were paired with studs or shorter styles, and in fact, the asymmetric look has become so popular that some jewellers are now selling earrings individually, so you can mix and match from your own collection.

If that sounds like too much effort, plump for an artfully mismatched pair instead.

:: Astrid & Miyu 18k Rose Gold Plated Sterling Silver Spiral Swing Earring, £100 (available in April; www.astridandmiyu.com)

:: Knolott You Missed It Dangling Blue Large Clip Earrings, £305 (www.konplott.com)

:: Alexi London Gold Hug Kiss Threaders, £45 (www.alexilondon.com)

:: EmbersFashionJewelry Sterling Silver Triangle Hoop Earrings, £49.75, Etsy (EmbersFashionJewelry.etsy.com)

:: RawObjeckt Mismatched Silver Earrings, £49.66, Etsy (RawObjekt.etsy.com)

STAY IN THE LOOP

At House of Holland SS17, gigantic door-knockers took the hoop earring trend to the max, while at Alexander McQueen, large ornate loops complemented the intricately embellished gowns.

On the high street, delicate circular styles offer a daywear-friendly way to tap into the trend.

:: Anthropologie Pendulum Circle Earrings, £48 (www.anthropologie.com)

:: Karen Millen Rose Gold Criss-Cross Hoop Earrings, £44 (www.watchshop.com)

:: East Irregular Disc Earrings, £12 (www.east.co.uk)

TAKE THE LONG ROUTE

How to accessorise, if you're nailing your colours to the sport luxe mast this season?

With long, narrow earrings, that's now.

Fine 'threaders' that hang long at the back as well are ideal, and look chic paired with a simple stud in the other ear.

:: Alexi London CZ Rose Gold Drop Threader Earrings, £40 (www.alexilondon.com)

:: Catherine Hills Spot the Missing Stone Studs with Detachable Chains, £98 (www.catherinehillsjewellery.com)

:: Jigsaw Made Two Tone Line Stud Earrings, £25 (www.jigsaw-online.com)

GO TO PIECES

Garnering lots of praise from the front row, Proenza Schouler's ivory wishbone-shaped shoulder-lengthers were a timely reminder that maybe it's time to give the rose gold a rest – likewise the sizeable gemstone earrings at Christopher Kane.

And the beauty of this trend is that you don't have to be dressed up to rock a graphic or blingy earring: pop on a pair with your favourite jeans, tee and heels to elevate an everyday look.

:: Anthropologie Lido Earrings, £114 (www.anthropologie.com)

:: Carousel Blue Chalcedony and Crystal Drop Earrings, £150 (www.carouseljewels.com)

GET THE LOOK

Get set for an influx of stylised florals this summer, a trend Ruth Wilson nailed with her perfectly proportioned Michael Kors pencil skirt and top pairing at the Olivier Awards nominations celebration. On the high street, French Connection's pale blue lace number is a wedding outfit waiting to happen.

:: French Connection Manzoni Meru Blue Lace Pencil Skirt, £120, John Lewis (www.johnlewis.com)

BUY IT NOW

Taking classic Victorian timepiece stylings and giving them a modern makeover, the new Roxy watch from Marc Jacobs is a real beauty. Available in gold, silver and rose gold colourways, the unisex trio taps into the genderless trend that's taking over fashion right now.

:: Marc Jacobs Unisex The Roxy Rose Gold Watch, £157 (WatchShop.com)

FASHION FLASH

:: FIND STYLE SOLUTIONS AT PHASE EIGHT

Shopping for a special occasion outfit is often the most stressful kind, but help is at hand, as Phase Eight is now offering personal styling at 50 of its standalone stores. Book a two-hour slot and you'll be paired with a trained stylist, who'll make suggestions based on your needs, whether you're shopping for a wedding, party or simply your everyday wardrobe. The service is free, with no minimum spend required. Find your nearest participating store and book at www.phase-eight.com

STYLE STEAL

Stock up on spring kidswear essentials while you do the weekly shop, with George at Asda's Easter offer. From March 30 to April 9, a range of boys' and girls' items, including dresses, tees and waterproof jackets are just £5 each in store and online (www.george.com).

:: George at Asda Dress, £5, and Jacket, £5 (www.george.com)