Got my latest copy of Vogue yesterday and I was so happy to empty my brains out by spending a relaxing half an hour indulging in it. However the contest that they were running caught me a little by surprise - yes, the prizes were none other than these $500 Bacio pandora bracelets - $500 each. I was like, ummmmm sorry not going to pay that much for a bracelet that doesn't even scream INDIVIDUALITY and DESIGN.What are pandora bracelets anyway? To me, they exist as nothing more than a steel metal rim, supporting a meagre few lampwork, metal or diamante beads. Sure it's silver and it's got your occassional add-on charms hanging down from it, but what really are all those hundreds of dollars going into?
I know pure silver is expensive, but as a teenager (and I think I speak for many when I say this) we don't solely obsess ourselves with the intricacies and quality of what we're buying; relatively speaking (to adults). I know I'm always on the lookout for things that look good, have significant design appeal and of course, it has to be something unique that makes me stand out when I wear it. That's why I love my wadrobe so much because it's like my second skin that I'm comfortable in - not to mention ECONOMICAL too!
For instance: have you guys had a look at Diva's "Design A Range" Contest recently?
I was quite eager to see the results of the finalists, but it was an awful shock when it came! Head over to see the finalists and you'll know what I mean. I'm not too sure I'll be buying any of these pieces in the near future. (FYI for those who don't know, the selected finalist will get their pieces mass-produced by Diva and sold Australia-wide. OMGOSH)
With the advent of 'hip' thrifting about in op-shops, I've developed a fascination for attending trash and treasure markets, or simply rediscovering the joys of picking up something lovely that someone else undervalues. So no more $500 pandora bracelets for me.
So what exactly is it that we are paying for? A nice looking brass charm attached to a string of normal, plain chain, making it a very mediocre necklace - $30 bucks gone at the very least; ka-ching.
A few noticeable trends in this category of lacking-in-skill "handmade" jewellery I've noticed include those romance-themed ones, like the 'Going Steady' pendant. Really though?
Also, the evergreen - or should I say, 'overseen' - 'LOVE' heart charm:
Left to right: $54.80 French Charm bracelet, ~$40.00 International Love Heart necklace
So I guess the question at the end of the day is really, what we concern ourselves with the value of our money. For looks or for quality craftsmanship?
