Fast fashion has changed the way we buy clothing and accessories, and jewellery is no exception. Low-cost, trend-led pieces are readily available, often designed to be replaced as quickly as the trends themselves.
At David Mellor Family Jewellers, we believe jewellery should be enjoyed for much longer. From choosing quality pieces to buying pre-owned and taking better care of the jewellery you already own, there are plenty of ways to make more considered choices.
What is fast-fashion jewellery?
Fast fashion is based around producing large quantities of affordable, trend-led products quickly. In jewellery, the same approach can result in inexpensive pieces designed around rapidly changing styles rather than longevity.
Fast-fashion jewellery is often characterised by:
- Very low prices
- Mass production
- Lower-cost materials
- Frequently changing collections
- Trend-led designs
What impact can fast-fashion jewellery have?
Environmental impact
Jewellery designed for short-term use can contribute to unnecessary waste. Lower-quality pieces may be difficult to repair or restore and are more likely to be discarded when they become damaged or fall out of fashion.
Choosing jewellery that is made to last, repairing existing pieces and considering pre-owned jewellery can all help extend the useful life of the materials already in circulation.
Social impact
The pressure to manufacture products quickly and at very low prices can also raise questions about how and where products are made.
Choosing jewellers and brands that are open about their materials, sourcing and manufacturing gives customers the opportunity to make more informed decisions about the jewellery they buy.
Quality and craftsmanship
Fast-changing trends can encourage us to see jewellery as disposable. Traditionally, however, jewellery has been something very different: carefully made pieces designed to be worn, repaired, treasured and sometimes passed from one generation to the next.
Investing in well-made jewellery can mean buying fewer pieces but enjoying them for considerably longer.
How to make more considered jewellery choices
There are several simple ways to move away from disposable jewellery without giving up the enjoyment of discovering something new.
Choose pre-owned and vintage jewellery
Pre-owned jewellery gives an existing piece another chapter in its story. It can also be a wonderful way to discover unusual designs, discontinued styles and jewellery with genuine character.
At David Mellor Family Jewellers, our growing collection of pre-owned jewellery is individually assessed, with pieces restored and reconditioned where required by our workshop team.
Buy less and choose well
Rather than regularly replacing inexpensive pieces, consider investing in jewellery you genuinely love and expect to wear for years.
A smaller collection of versatile, well-made pieces can provide the foundation of a jewellery box that works for everyday wear as well as special occasions.
Look after the jewellery you already own
Good jewellery can last for generations when properly cared for. Regular cleaning, suitable storage and timely repairs can help keep favourite pieces looking their best and prevent minor problems becoming more significant.
Our team can also advise on cleaning, repairs and maintenance to help extend the life of your jewellery.
Consider where your jewellery comes from
Not all fashion jewellery is fast fashion. Many contemporary jewellery brands place greater emphasis on quality, considered production and pieces designed to be enjoyed beyond a single season.
When choosing something new, take the time to consider the materials, craftsmanship and brand behind the piece rather than simply following the latest trend.
Our approach at David Mellor Family Jewellers
At David Mellor Family Jewellers, we believe quality, craftsmanship and longevity matter.
Alongside carefully selected contemporary jewellery brands, we continue to develop our pre-owned collection and invest in the skills and equipment required to restore and recondition existing pieces.
Whether you're choosing something new, discovering a pre-owned piece or looking after jewellery you already treasure, our team is here to help at our Eastleigh, Andover and Totton stores.
