One of the most prominent consumer responses to the current economic recession is to look back to the good ole days of yesteryear. Consumers are looking for nostalgic products that remind them of happier times.
With our newfound attitudes of hope, change and optimism, we want reassurance that it is possible to rescue each other and ourselves from the current mess of an economy. We want products that offer comfort and hope. Therefore, it makes sense that good luck charms are appearing everywhere.
The jewelry stands at the New York International Gift Fair were riddled with wishbone charms. Since the trade show, I’ve seen them everywhere--at Dogeared, Urban Outfitters, Fred Flare, Macy’s, and Etsy. Recently, I’ve also seen a resurgence of other traditional good luck charms, like the horseshoe, hamsa hand and clover.
Perhaps a more exciting innovation is the emergence of the good fortune charm--a gold replica of a fortune cookie, available at both Fred Flare and Emily Elizabeth Jewelry.
Since the trade show, I’ve also seen a lot of horseshoe and clover charms. While searching Etsy--the Mecca of buying handmade--I also found hamsa hand charms and lucky penny necklaces.
Does wearing a lucky amulet work? Does it offer comfort or hope? If so, then let’s all jump on the bandwagon. We’ll have the economy turned around in no time.
Optimistic Recession Jewelry
Wishbone, Horseshoe and Fortune Cookie Charms for Good Luck
Trend Themes
1. Nostalgic Charms - There is a growing trend for nostalgic charms, so businesses can capitalize on this by offering a range of products that evoke feelings of nostalgia and a desire for happier times.
2. Good Luck Charms - There is a trend for good luck charms, providing an opportunity for companies to create products that offer comfort and hope in uncertain times.
3. Economic Optimism - The emergence of economic optimism has created an opportunity for businesses to create products that are viewed as symbols of hope during tough times.
Industry Implications
1. Jewelry - With the rise in demand for nostalgia and good luck charms, the jewelry industry can tap into this trend by offering a range of products such as vintage-inspired jewelry or good luck charm bracelets.
2. Gifts and Souvenirs - Gift shops and souvenir stores can capitalize on the trend for nostalgic and good luck charms by stocking a range of products that offer comfort and hope during tough economic times.
3. Fashion - The fashion industry can incorporate good luck charms into their designs, creating clothes and accessories with a positive message that offers a sense of hope for consumers.