DESIGN 设计 18 | JNA May/June 2024 In an era of individualism and inclusivity, gender boundaries are gradually dissipating. Innovative fashion collections are blurring the lines between menswear and womenswear – and so are jewellery designs. The so-called unisex jewellery per se is not new, but the industry is now seeing more refined pieces continuously pushing the envelope of design. Traditional perceptions of jewellery tend to associate men’s jewellery with masculine traits such as strength and boldness while female-oriented pieces are often presented as softer and more delicate. Today’s genderless designs, however, are reshaping these conventional notions of masculinity and femininity. Fluid designs As gender-neutral jewellery continues to gain traction in the market worldwide, it is becoming more of a staple rather than a mere trend. Joy Wei Chow, creative director of Joy Wei Chow Fine Jewelry from Taiwan, is at the forefront of this design revolution. She said men’s jewellery often embodies geometric shapes that convey a sense of strength and power. In contrast, women’s jewellery tends to feature delicate, softer lines. Chow explained, “The essence of gender-fluid designs is blending these binary distinctions into a singular aspect that embodies softness within strength and strength within softness.” Chow’s forte lies in utilising lines that flow smoothly into the designs to achieve her artistic pursuits. She compares lines to calligraphy as a tool to express tension and vigour, and create intriguing designs that unleash an artist’s vivid imagination. Chow's experiences living and studying in the US alongside her exposure to American culture are reflected in her creations. Her distinctive designs feature bold and expressive lines as well as fancy cut and freeform gemstones and diamonds that reflect individuality. Her latest creation – the Fintastic ear cuff – demonstrates her unique aesthetic approach. It features an amber centre stone set in 18-karat white gold and black rhodium-plated black gold, with the two-toned design adding layers and depth to the jewellery piece. | Sharon Kwok 郭芷雯 | The number of jewellers embracing the concept of gender neutrality is on the rise, giving birth to jewellery designs that are inclusive and universal and allow both men and women to express their individual style. 推崇中性概念的珠宝商日益增加,他们推出更多 具有包容性和通用性的珠宝款式,让男士和女士都能展现个人风格。 1 2 Gender-fluid CREATIVITY 性别流动 创意无限
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