On the Blog:
BANGLES 101
September 13, 2019
Chanel, Fall 1983
Lisa Taylor, Arthur Elgort for Vogue 1976
Linda Evangelista for Chanel, 1991
Chanel, Fall 1983; Lisa Taylor, Arthur Elgort for Vogue 1976; Linda Evangelista for Chanel, 1991
The History of the Iconic Bangle
From the Indian subcontinent, to the Mediterannean, from the ruins of Ancient Egypt to the closets of #BirdGirls around the world – the popular bangle-style bracelet is one of the oldest and most historically significant pieces of jewelry.
"Dancing Girl" statue; Arthur Elgort for Vogue 1976; Madonna, 1980s
We believe that in order to achieve the perfectly stacked combination you need to lay on the right foundation. We find those of-the-moment styles, combined with special heirloom pieces assist in attaining a sought-after, curated look that’s all your own.
With that being said, who’s ready for a history lesson? Welcome to Bangles 101
The cultural significance of the bangle dates alllll the way back to a 4,500-year-old statue known as the “Dancing Girl”. A statue, depicted in the nude, except for an arm that is entirely covered in bangles. This statue represents the first instance of the accessory being used as a part of human culture.
Whether made from wood, stone, enamel, fine metals and more, the bangle holds unique significance across many different cultures - beauty, power, evil and death, along with symbols of marriage and prosperity.
With modern progress came editorials, designers, celebrities, and fashion models who began to showcase bangle bracelets in a different light. From the chunky plastics and space-age colours which defined the 60’s to the thick yellow gold and counterculture inspired pieces of the 70’s, moving right along to the 80’s; defined by the infamous jelly bracelets, as well as both thin bangles and big oversized bangles alike.
Materials may range, cultural factors may change, but one thing about bangles will always stay the same; this timeless style of bracelet is highly versatile. Whether maximalist or minimalist in style, bangles are in, they always will be.
Karen Graham, by Irving Penn, 1975
Veruschka von Lehndorff, Irving Penn, for Vogue 1965
Check out our FAVE must-have JB bangles
