Choked Up
Besides the fine lines and wrinkles, nothing makes me more aware of the aging process than seeing a style come back around that I knew and loved the first time. It’s like anytime my mom sees a 70’s inspired item of clothing she gets all googly eyed and starts taking me on a trip down memory lane to her college days on “the drag” in Austin with the hippies. I may have been a little kid when 90’s grunge hit the scene, but I was already subconsciously obsessed with fashion. I made my mom buy me oversized flannel shirts from the Gap Kids boys' section—there was even one that had a hoodie attached to it that I practically lived in throughout the second and third grade. I remember first discovering the choker trend. I couldn’t have been more than 8 years old and we couldn’t find one small enough for me. My mom took me to a store called Nomadic Notions where you could choose beads and materials to make your own necklace. I made a black leather choker with a big ying-yang glass bead in the center. I wore my DIY accessory with pride and scarcely it took off.
When the choker recently reemerged on the fashion scene, naturally, I felt nostalgic, but also excited to embrace the trend as an adult. From an aesthetic perspective, I love that this accessory draws the eye up to the face and can give the illusion of a longer, slimmer neck. It has become widely accepted as the must-have neck adornment of the season—even by the minimalist devotees. Unlike a bold bib necklace, the right choker can even be paired with a statement earring which is certainly a winning attribute in my book. In a wide array of materials from fabric to sleek metal to pearls and diamonds, the options and styles are incredibly broad and suit any look from basic to boho to black tie. There is even potential for layering a few together which is a great way to express unique personal style. Pair your choker of choice with an off-the-shoulder or deep-V style for maximum effect. It is also the perfect accessory to add a little edge to a softer, feminine look, like this dress.
This SUN choker from Melissa Lovy is not only perfect for a casual summer day with its 18 karat gold sun charm, it also represents a crucial cause. The design is inspired in memory of Melissa's mother, Sarah, to raise awareness of the importance of skin protection. A portion of the profits from the SUN collection will be donated to benefit skin cancer awareness and prevention. If that's not a perfect reason to get choked up, what is?
Wearing: Melissa Lovy Choker and Earrings, Shein Dress, Hammitt Bag, Zara Hat, Zara Sandals, Vintage Ray-Ban Sunglasses
Photography: Christina Emilie