This decade was a hugely
experimental era with a diversity of looks and trends, including flower
power, ethnic, gypsy and various retro revivals. The very first moon
mission inspired the Space Age look with costume jewellery being
produced in plain plastics and metals in geometric shapes and
designs. The American designer Kenneth J Lane (born in Detroit) was
a huge influence on jewellery design in the 60s, who was one of the
very few who managed to harness the very many diverse trends and styles
of the 1960s. He worked for Hattie Carnegie as creative director,
before becoming a costume jewellery impresario, launching his career
with a collection of large, over the top, rhinestone encrusted, plastic
earrings. The lightweight materials that he used permitted him to
design and create jewels so enormous that some of his clientele
had to use spirit gum in order to keep them on! His styles and
designs were worn by actresses and socialites, Audrey Hepburn and
Elizabeth Taylor. He also produced a successful "Jackie O" line
based on her sense of style and elegance.
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