We can’t tell you exactly how many miles of  jewelry shows we’ve covered this summer, but let’s just say our Fitbit needs a rest! What we can tell you is that as jewelry designers continue to reinvent themselves, they keep dazzling us with fresh, inventive looks. Here are some glittering examples that made our jewelry trend A-list. In other words, we predict that these will be the fab four looks for fall—and more importantly, give jewelry shoppers a reason to buy something new! So smart retailers, be sure to stock these objects of desire.—Sue Perry

Barely-there chains and necklaces

Sure, women still want to make a statement  with their jewelry, but for everyday wearability, the smaller, minimalist necklace has won over women of all age groups. “It’s part of you, it moves with you, and expresses your personality no matter what you’re wearing,” says Karen Giberson, President of the Accessories Council.  Like many women today, Giberson was wearing two slim necklaces when we caught up to her for this interview. “I wear them almost all of the time. They work as well with the suit I’m wearing as well as with the workout clothes I was wearing earlier,” she said.

Take home lesson for retailers:  For many consumers,  a minimalist gold or bejeweled necklace that can be worn everyday—and layers easily with other necklaces—makes justifying a jewelry purchase all the easier.

Shown: Necklace from PS One Jewellry’s Happy Spirit Collection.

More bang for the buck versatility

A piece of fine jewelry that can transform itself into more than one look is also very appealing to today’s practical-minded jewelry consumer. At the shows we attended, including Couture 2016 in Vegas and New York’s JA show, we spotted amazingly clever pieces from gorgeous necklaces and earrings with the ability to change length and even chic pearl and leather belts that could quick-change into edgy necklaces and bracelets. “Earring jackets that make a piece look different are also making a comeback,” says Giberson.

Take home lesson for retailers: Versatility sells. How often you are going to wear a piece is a big factor in the purchasing decision. But  “you have to have a sales force who knows how the product works,” says Giberson. “The piece shouldn’t be too contrived or difficult to adjust or the customer won’t do it.”

Shown: Dana Bronfman’s earrings can be worn three ways: as ear climbers, with a single drop or with three full tiers as pictured.

Fresh new takes on pearls

The industry calls it “not your grandmother’s pearls”, and from what we saw hiking the aisles, this is a trend that’s only getting stronger. Of course, there will always be the consumer who covets a stand of pearls, says Giberson, “but the new styles are made in ways that young people will want to buy and add to their wardrobes.”  That certainly explains why we spotted pearl rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces from  big-name designers with a more modern, casual vibe.

Take home lesson for retailers: Keep in mind that today’s woman is more casual. “She’s running round from day to night but still wants beautiful jewelry that works with her life,” says Giberson. And that goes for pearls. Think equal parts quirky and chic as you add to your stock.

Shown: Ikecho pearl and diamond earrings by Jorge Adeler.

Jewelry in vibrant colors

Colored gemstones were all over the place, mixing with all sorts of metals for breathtaking effects. “People are more comfortable wearing colored stones and mixing different colored metals” says Giberson. “The traditional rules of wearing gold with gold or silver with silver aren’t important any more.” Also, says Giberson, “Stones have meaning for people whether it’s a color they like or their birthstone. And some stones have alleged properties that personalize a look.”

Take home lesson for retailers: Color is becoming an important part of everyday jewelry. Whether its dangling earrings in vibrant colors, a bejeweled necklace or even a gemstone charm—a pop of color is a great way to freshen a wardrobe. Opals in fresh and beautiful styles are also a big part of this color trend, says Giberson. Smart jewelers take notice!

Shown: Eye catching earrings and ring from Buddha Mama.

Shown at top of page: Lotus Shield necklace by Alexis Kletjian.