Tiara Dhody
09-Apr-2025
Gen Z believes in joie de vivre, and the fashion gods have heard them!
By Tiara Dhody, Founder of Treasures by Tiara
I’ve always believed that jewellery is more than just an accessory—it’s a statement, a mood, and sometimes, even a rebellion. Over the past few years, I’ve seen a shift in how people, especially Gen Z, engage with fine jewellery. They want something different. Something that speaks to them. Something that makes them smile. That’s where quirky luxury comes in.
Gone are the days when fine jewellery was limited to heirloom pieces tucked away in lockers, only making an appearance at weddings and “important” occasions. Today’s generation is redefining what luxury means, and honestly, I love it. They’re embracing statement pieces that blend humour, nostalgia, and craftsmanship—turning high jewellery into wearable art.
The Rise of Playful Luxury
Gen Z is a generation that doesn’t take itself too seriously. They grew up in a world of emojis, memes, and self-expression through fashion, and they want their jewellery to reflect that same spirit. This means traditional diamonds and pearls are being reimagined with a touch of irreverence—think scissor pendants, fork hair clips, and lemon-chilli necklaces that fuse cultural symbolism with high fashion.
At Treasures by Tiara, I wanted to create a brand that spoke to this new mindset. Why shouldn’t fine jewellery be fun? Why can’t a cocktail ring spark a conversation? Why not wear a bracelet that feels like a good-luck charm with a mischievous twist? These were the questions that led me to design pieces that push boundaries—whether it’s a deck of cards bracelet or an Empire Seal ring that feels like a tiny piece of history on your finger.
Nostalgia Meets New-Age Glamour
Another major driver behind the rise of quirky luxury is nostalgia. Gen Z is deeply influenced by the past—whether it’s Y2K fashion, vintage aesthetics, or symbols of childhood. But instead of simply bringing back old trends, they reinvent them. I see this in the way people gravitate toward our coin rings or Victorian-inspired chokers but with a modern twist. It’s about mixing eras, mixing metals, and most importantly, mixing meaning.
The Intersection of Individuality and Investment
What I admire most about today’s buyers is their desire to make every piece personal. Whether it’s initials, zodiac signs, or talismans, jewellery is now a canvas for storytelling. A quirky fine jewellery piece isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about identity. And the best part? These aren’t just fleeting trends; they are investment pieces that hold sentimental value and grow more precious over time.
As someone who has grown up surrounded by jewellery, I’ve always been fascinated by how a single piece can transform an outfit, an attitude, or even a whole mood. And in today’s world, where self-expression is the ultimate luxury, I see no reason why jewellery shouldn’t be playful, bold, and deeply personal.
Gen Z has spoken, and the message is clear: luxury doesn’t have to be stiff, serious, or predictable. It can be quirky. It can be fun. And most importantly, it can be you.
Cover Credits: Instagram @treasuresbytiara
