2025 EMMYS: ANOTHER CASE OF THE MISSING NECKLACE
Has anyone else noticed a gradual decrease in statement jewelry on the red carpet? Or is it just another one of those odd, too-deep-into-pop-culture moments I have on a very regular basis? Seriously though, for a little over a decade, there has been a noticeable decline in red carpet fashions that include eye-catching jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Let’s take a look at some fashions from this year’s Emmys, shall we?
Brittany Snow, of Hairspray and Pitch Perfect fame, wore a light pink gown by the bridal company Wiederhoeft. While she does look beautiful, I can not help but feel as though it is missing something, you know? Perhaps something resting on her décolletage? Same goes for Katherine Lanasa, who just could’ve used a little extra oomph.
Image Courtesy: Instagram
Despite my desire for our favorite stars to wear something shiny on the carpet, some looks from that night admittedly looked better without flashy jewelry.
The Penguin star Cristin Milioti absolutely stunned in her custom, dark red gown by Danielle Frankel. With its “sculptural neckline and a dramatic train that followed her on the red carpet,” it is easy to recognize that a necklace or choker would’ve thrown the entire look off.
Another look that made waves sans necklace? Awards presenter Zuri Hall. Wearing Elio Abou Fayssal, her structured burgundy gown with its sheer metallic fabric gives both beauty and power. And damn, does it look good.
Image Courtesy: Instagram
Image Courtesy: Instagram
Oh, of course I couldn’t forget about Wednesday and Death of a Unicorn (honorable mention: Stuck in the Middle) actor Jenna Ortega. If anyone could see the lack of statement jewelry and up the ante, it would 100% be her. I am fully on board for statement tops in place of smaller jewelry pieces. Like come on, are we kidding? This eats.
Image Courtesy: Instagram
However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that there is just such a distinct expulsion of jewels. With all of that being said, there’s many different aspects to consider. . Some trace this lack of accessory to Kim Kardashian’s 2016 Paris robbery (shoutout this article by Boca Raton Strike writer Morgann Rhule!), while others believe when celebrities and pop culture figures engage in these displays of wealth, it can be insensitiveto the public. A 2023 Fashionista article written by Brooke Frischer tells readers this, “In the time of a pandemic, war and living crises, she [stylist Mary Fellowes] feels that ‘mindless extravagance just feels so out of touch and obsolete.’"
Celebrity, while just a word, can hold different weight for everyone. Being aware of the world around me, I understand the shift away from statement jewelry and find no fault with it. Yet,I can say all of that in the same breath while saying that I miss the marvel and grandiosity of watching stars walk down the red carpet with designer outfits and jewelry to match.
Perhaps someday there will be a return to the norm, but in the interim, I’ll take whatever accessories I can get, especially the ones that hold the highest value.
Image Courtesy: Instagram
Strike Out,
Kaya O’Rourke
Saint Augustine
Editor: Amia King, Jessica Giraldo
Kaya O’Rourke is a writer for Strike Magazine, Saint Augustine. She’s a big fan of film and art houses, curating the perfect Spotify playlist for every occasion, and spending time with her BFFS (her mom and her cats). When she’s not updating her Letterboxd or working on her screenplay, you can reach her on Instagram at @kayaorourke.
