Scaled Restraint
Synthetic
Opulence
Gem alternatives provide affordable luxury with an authentic twist.
Trend
What is the Synthetic Opulence trend?
Synthetic Opulence: In search of glamour while coping with financial instability and pervasive debt, Millennial consumers are accessorizing with nature-inspired materials and DIY options to achieve the look of luxury without breaking the bank. In contrast to the pristine perfection of laser-cut jewels, homemade ornaments also serve to satiate the appearance of authenticity and uniqueness that Millennials crave.
Trend themes
Themes within the Synthetic Opulence trend
Three behaviours holding the trend togetherDIY Luxury
Millennial consumers are seeking the glamorous look of luxury without breaking the bank through DIY and nature-inspired materials.
Eco-Friendly Jewelry
Designers are repurposing natural materials such as wood, repurposed paper, and edible salt to create unique handmade pieces of jewelry.
3D Printed Jewelry
Additive manufacturing technology is offering cost-effective ways to create unique and intricate pieces of jewelry.
Industry implications
What the Synthetic Opulence trend means for industry
Where the trend changes the playbookFashion and Accessories
Designers are experimenting with alternative materials to create affordable, eco-friendly, and unique accessories.
3D Printing
Additive manufacturing is reshaping the jewelry industry, making it possible to create intricate and personalized pieces.
Sustainability
Eco-friendly jewelry design is a part of the larger sustainable movement that is taking root in various industries.
Workshop question
How could your brand incorporate luxurious components to attract Millennial consumers without having to charge luxury prices?
Trend signals
Trend signals for Synthetic Opulence
Trend score 5.3 out of 10, from popularity 73%, activity 79%, freshness 8%.
- Gen Alpha
- Gen Z
- Millennial
- Gen X
- Boomer (not a primary audience)
Evidence
Examples of the Synthetic Opulence trend
5 featured examples from Sep 18, 2015 to Jun 15, 2016Semi-Natural Wooden Jewelry
These Artistic Accessories are Made of Wood and Resin Materials
The fashion and accessories industry can benefit from using sustainable materials like wood and resin to create eco-friendly, artistic pieces of jewelry for the conscious consumer.
Sophisticated Paper Jewelry
This Artisan Jewelry is Constructed With Repurposed Paper
Fashion and accessories industry can explore using repurposed materials to create sustainable and unique jewelry designs.
Boyfriend-Made Engagement Rings
Imgur User Jarvicious Creates His Own Custom Ring to Propose With
Jewelry makers can capitalize on the trend of homemade engagement rings by offering affordable, beginner-friendly workshops, online tutorials, and customizable kits with a focus o…
3D-Printed Crystal Jewelry
STONEDALONE Jewelry Pieces are Created with Additive Manufacturing
Transforming the jewelry industry by incorporating additive manufacturing to produce unique crystal pieces.
Edible Salt Necklaces
These Jewelry Pieces Feature Lickable Salt Pendants for Added Nutrients
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Combine fashion and functionality in innovative ways to offer consumers unique and practical wearable products.