Phil Oh
Here’s the lowdown on the celebrity-favorite jewelry lines that are making waves within the fashion circuit.
Jewelry brands that bring a bright spark to your everyday are making a comeback in all their colorful and modern glory. Playful accents found in electric hues and alluring texture combinations are being worn by Kim Kardashian, Drake, and Doja Cat to name a few. What makes these jewelry brands intriguing are their penchant for pushing boundaries and their captivating shapes. Frank Ocean’s accessory label Homer alludes to childhood themes in a bold color palette and bubbly forms, meanwhile, Bea Bongiasca takes on a wavy approach to jewelry with wiggly vines and rainbow creations. NYC-based Filipino designer Chris Habana also puts an avant-garde spin on statement jewelry with elevated novelty pieces that exude self-expression. Below, we round up playful jewelry brands that are beloved by celebrities.
For a contemporary edge: Homer
With the buzz surrounding singer Ocean’s possible album drop, it’s only fitting that his luxury jewelry brand, Homer, should have a place on your radar. The 34-year-old musician is known for his 2016 album Blonde and his heartbreaking single, “Thinkin Bout You,” alongside other swoon-worthy greats. Having cleared his Instagram account of all of his posts, dedicated fans are interpreting this enigmatic gesture as a sign that a new release is in the works—just in time for his headline act at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 2023.
Emotive yet intriguing, his pieces reflect his sentimental tracks. Through the label, the singer transforms his “childhood obsessions” into eccentric pieces. Portraying heritage as a fantasy, his collections comprise of Murakami-esque characters, pixelated motifs, and monochrome links.
Last year, Homer even collaborated with Prada, venturing into apparel and accessories, especially alongside the Italian luxury giant. With Prada’s signature silhouettes—the Anorak, Backpack, and Belt Bag—reinterpreted by Ocean, Homer released shiny pieces in muted colors and darkened contrasts. Singer Rosalía wore the collaboration’s lilac backpack during New York Fashion Week last year, while actor Evan Mock wore the anorak in a mint green tone and the backpack in a baby blue hue. (Coincidentally, it was Ocean who catapulted Mock to stardom. While skating together, artist Tom Sachs noticed Mock’s pink hair and asked if he could shoot a video of him for a friend named “Frank.” After Ocean posted the video on his Instagram, Mock’s social media following went through the roof.)
LeBron x Drake. 🤝
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) March 19, 2022
(via @Lakers) pic.twitter.com/Z9m8Jk7PGo
The Sphere Leg Jewelry Necklace was recently worn by Drake at the Lakers versus Raptors game in Toronto. The captivating necklace accented by pavé links and brilliant-cut white diamonds is worth close to US$1.9 million. The Canadian rapper paired the intricate necklace with the Sphere Legs High Jewelry Bracelet embellished with 18-karat white gold, white rhodium plating, and rows of white diamonds.
For a mood-boosting accessory du jour: Bea Bongiasca
Bea Bongiasca has a star-studded lineup of celebrities including Gigi Hadid, Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa, Doja Cat, and Kim Kardashian. With an energetic and free-spirited approach to jewelry, the label is an escape to a whimsical world. Colorful and sustainably sourced, the collections feature candy-hued floral motifs, rings reminiscent of vines, and semi-precious stones crafted into youthful designs.
Italian singer and songwriter Gaia Gozzi wore the eponymous label’s two-toned asymmetrical flower power earrings with a layered assortment of B Half Rings in vibrant, make-you-smile colors. Paired with a minimalist ensemble consisting of a white tank top and an orange glove, the singer emphasizes a nonchalant laidback aesthetic with a pop of color.
Meanwhile, Kim Kardashian wears the Pop Choker with the Lucky Flower Pendant in hot pink paired with a ribbed long-sleeved blouse and electric blue shorts. Found in 9-karat yellow gold with an octagon-cut topaz and striking fuchsia enamel, this piece brings an exuberant finish to one’s everyday ensemble.
For your first fashion-forward foray: Chris Habana
Filipino jewelry designer Chris Habana has dressed a slew of icons including Rihanna, Madonna, Kylie Jenner, and Nicki Minaj. Not only that, but his playful accessories even made their way to New York Fashion Week for LaQuan Smith, Christian Cowan, and Theophilio.
Drawing inspiration from punk, goth, and Indigenous cultures, the designer puts an outré punk twist on contemporary jewelry. The 41-year-old designer transforms sterling silver into modern designs with subversive orbits, spikes, pearl accents, and septum cuffs with plenty of personality.
Rapper Megan Thee Stallion wore a custom Chris Habana bodysuit, pearl jewelry, and heels. The jewelry comprises of statement-making pearls in varying sizes with a pair of dangling earrings to match.
Fashion influencer and YouTuber Bretman Rock wears an eye-catching Tribal Thorn Bracelet matched with an open-knit sleeveless blouse and distressed jeans.
