More Than BeautyWhile “ethnic” jewelry might simply...

More Than Beauty

While “ethnic” jewelry might simply be aesthetically pleasing for those of us living in the urban world, it serves a deeper purpose for the tribespeople who wear it. The metal cuts, the pendant shapes and the stone selection can symbolize pride or protect one from nature’s hostile ways. For the Tuaregs of the Sahara, “carnelian is believed to aid in healing wounds and averting the evil eye,” according to Patricia Korzec of the Bowers Museum Gallery Store. There the Tuaregs’ silver work is on view and for sale, with pieces ranging from $35 to $600.

Self-Contained

Guys, it’s all in the pockets. What’s in them doesn’t matter so much, as long as they’re there. The cargo pant is the newest recycled idea, offering the functional style so in line with recent tastes. “This pant is of the grouping that’s defined by a slimmer silhouette with fuller detailing,” says designer Natalie Rigolet of 24-7. The Santa Ana label offered a shorter version of its long cargo pant for summer (about $45) in brushed canvas and fine wale corduroy. “It might have a military influence,” she adds, “but please don’t call it new punk.” Check.

A Knockout

The sports-gear-into-street-chic trend of late is turning up some pretty serious contenders--such as the satin boxing shorts and mini skirt from Playmate of New York (about $50). The line is the junior wear offshoot of Global Ghetto. “I always felt boxing shorts were a cool item,” says designer Skat Smith. “Satin works really well for clubbing at night . . . and day, too.” The two-tone bottoms come in hunter green, burgundy, purple and--the hippest of shades now--powder blue. Response has been so great that Smith is considering a pair in pink.

Tying Two On

With much of fashion assuming an innocence, or at least a youthful image reserved for schoolgirls, it’s no surprise hairstyles should react likewise. Braids and pony tails offer the “freshest look” right now, says stylist Kenneth Michael. “Some young women haven’t worn their hair this way since they were 12!” He notes that many models are popularizing the ‘do because they’re in between last season’s short cuts and growing it out. “It’s just very whimsical.”