In the bridal shower section of our upcoming special issue, Beading Parties, we show a beautiful bird necklace by Nina Cooper. I've noticed that the bird motif is still going strong — and though I'm not a fan of the actual winged creatures, I do like the theme in jewelry. I'm also seeing lots of owls and wings.

A few of my favorite jewelry designs:

• Free People's sterling silver charm on crocheted cord

• Peggy Li's delicate dove necklaces 

• Heartbreak Jewelry's vintage plastic pendant 

• Buttercup Days' bird charm lariats 

• Local Library's enameled pendant in retro colors 

• Allison Wells' flying bird earrings with attached earring wires
 

As far as sources go, Nina Designs has many styles right now, including open wirework (my favorites — I prefer flat, two-dimensional charms) and songbird-and-floral prints. Or, for inexpensive charms, try the Blue Moon collection at Jo-ann or Michaels. 

I'm hoping that puppy charms will soon become a trend. (Not realistic, but I can hope, right?)