Jewelers L’atelier Nawbar and Lebanese fashion influencer Nathalie Fanj have capitalized on the retro plastic jewelry trend to launch a special collection this week. Inspired by the electric hues of the 1990s, the Jem Pop collection features seven explosively colorful rings, each bearing an affordable price tag of $185.
“I remember growing up in the ‘90s and being so inspired by my sisters who were teenagers then and how they dressed,” says Fanj. “I own a lot of clothing items and jewelry from the ‘90s that I will never stop wearing.”
In creating the Jem Pop rings, the Nawbar sisters are following in the footsteps of international brands that have also taken a flight back in time to glean inspiration for their collections. Barcelona-based La Manso, Alison Lou from New York, Milan-based Bea Bongiasca and the UK’s Hotlips by Solange have all released similar ‘90s-inspired baubles at generally accessible price points.
A playful highlight from the Jem Pop range is the Mixed Tape ring, which reinvents vintage cassette tapes into a bold fashion statement. This and the other six gold-plated items from the collection are all handmade by L’atelier Nawbar’s skilled artisans in Beirut, using ancient enameling techniques.
Lebanon’s L’atelier Nawbar is nominated for this year’s FTA Prize, in the jewelry category.
