Blue Nile SVP of Merchandising, Sue Bell and the buying team are front and center when it comes to predicting trends. They design, discuss with vendors and are constantly gallivanting the world to find the best product for our customers - which means the HIGHEST quality at unbeatable prices. I sat down with Sue to talk about what we can expect to trend this spring and summer. I also threw in a fall question as well, because if you're like me, I'm starting my birthday gift list already. (I'm an October baby).

JVP: Tell us about COLOR this spring! What are the most popular hues taking form for Spring 12?

SB: The most popular colors this season are vibrant oranges and shades of tangerine; beautiful gradations of greens; ocean hues of blue and turquoise.

JVP: If you must choose one must-have jewelry accessory to rock, what would it be?

SB: Hands down…a cocktail ring!

JVP: What’s the hype about minis? Tell us about Blue Nile’s mini collection and why it’s trending?

SB: Minis are prevalent on the celebrity scene in a variety of metals and icons. It’s all about making it your look! Personalize! Super fun and accessible

JVP: Are charms still making a comeback?

SB: Charms are a perennial favorite and a natural jewelry wardrobe staple. Collected over the years, they tell your personal story and remind you of all your life experiences and memories.  

 JVP: We know wedding season is just around the corner….can you tell us about upcoming trends in engagement jewelry?

SB: The vintage look continues to be hot in the engagement ring world. Halo settings  continue to be a popular choice – single halo, double halo, micropave split shank, fancy shape diamonds… The halo setting is the perfect style to optimize the look of your center stone. In April, we will be introducing additional vintage looks; some inspired by Spring with hints of flowers and butterflies.

JVP: And what can we except for summer & fall in fashion fine jewelry?

SB: Color will still be hot in fashion jewelry. As we go into Fall we will be featuring some richer tones of brown, orange, gold and green.  Gold and rose gold, with their warm tones, will be popular moving through late summer and into Fall.  Summer and transition introduce organic shapes, artisan handcrafted looks and colored enamels. Heirloom motifs and Art Deco will continue to be inspirational in statement  fine jewelry.