When I was at college in the 70’s, we were Hippies. My girlfriend used to make necklaces and bracelets for me. Leather string, and found items she picked up when we were travelling. I am pleasantly surprised that in 2020 the look is Bohemian, at least in the summer. I live and work in London and have designed jewellery for 35 years for an affluent group of people that range in age 25-45 years old. I would say my customer base is classical with a twist.

However, in that short and sacred period of time the British call “Summer”, something remarkable happens. The warm air has an extraordinary effect on everyone. I live near the Kings Road and I am always astonished that on the very first warm day, girls appear in shorts, flip-flops, and straw hats like, “Yeah, I just came off the beach, man.”

Everyone’s jewellery changes as well. I know because I have been making jewellery for Summer Holidays forever. Stacks and stacks of bracelets, layered necklaces, and a lot of thin chains are popular. There are no rules. I love the vibe, it almost seems tribal.

The summer brings out the best: rose wine, picnics, sleeping with the windows open, light until 10 pm, more rose wine, and lots of random jewellery.

-Eric Van Peterson