Get ready to embrace the latest trend that is taking the world by storm: friendship bracelets! And we have Taylor Swift to thank for it. In this era of digital connections, these colorful handmade accessories are making a powerful comeback as symbols of genuine friendship and unity.
From their beginnings, friendship bracelets have evolved into personalized creations that celebrate the bonds we share with our friends. Discover why these bracelets have become so popular again, the many styles to choose from, and how other celebrities are jumping on board.
What Are Friendship Bracelets?
Friendship bracelets are handmade accessories that represent the bond of friendship. They have been popular for decades and come in various styles, colors, and designs. Typically made from thread or string, these bracelets are often created using different knotting techniques.
While friendship bracelets have been around since 481 to 221 BC, they first appeared in US culture in the 1970’s. They made a brief resurgence in the late 90s and early 2000s.
They are gifted by one friend to another, as a symbol of their connection and camaraderie. Whether it’s a simple braided design or a complex woven pattern, friendship bracelets serve as tangible reminders of cherished friendships and can be worn with pride on the wrist.
Why Did Friendship Bracelets Become Popular Again?
We have the Swifties to blame! Swifties are a well-known and die-hard group of fans who love Taylor Swift’s music. Swifties often seek out hidden symbolism in Taylor Swift’s music, lyrics, and gestures. This particular trend is due to the lyrics in the song “You’re On Your Own, Kid.”
Specifically, the lyrics: “So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it; You’ve got no reason to be afraid.” This single line has led to a massive increase in sales for bracelet making equipment and supplies, such as round and square beads, at craft stores like Michaels.
Which Style of Friendship Bracelets Are Popular?
If you look at the styles popular with Swifities, you may think they’re oversized bracelets. While they technically aren’t one bracelet, the Swifties are taking pointers from how you’d typically go about styling oversized bracelets. For example, they’re stacking multiple small bracelets on top of one another to make it look like you’re wearing multiple bracelets of different sizes.
The current trend seems to take homage to the friendship bracelets from the 90s. Many circular beads, often of different colors or with letters, are strung on a single string. These beads are dressed up with other, more intricate beads that include picture holders or charms.
Charm bracelets were another big deal in the late 90s and early 2000s, and you can see the return of these inclusions in the friendship bracelets. What’s more, you don’t have to receive a bracelet from a friend before you wear it. But it may hold more meaning that way.
Are Other Celebrities Getting on Board?
Many celebrities are super excited about this trend! Gigi Hadid, Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Garner, and more are posting about their friendship bracelets on social media. The Space Needle even posted on Instagram about their love for these unique bracelets.
It can’t be understated how awesome that is, especially considering the trend was 100% started by Swifties. This is one of those cases where celebrities are following what fans are doing instead of the other way around. In fact, this reverse is becoming more and more popular.
Craft Stores Are Still Monitoring Inventory
Although the trend started at the beginning of August, Swifties are still really into this trend! After all, the Eras tour is going up until the end of November. Because of this sharp rise in beads and string sales, large retailers like Michaels are having a hard time keeping everything in stock.
In an email received by USA Today, John Gehre, the chief merchandising officer for Michaels, stated that jewelry sales were up more than 40% across the chain since mid-April.
Since this has happened, Michaels is paying a close eye on their inventory and ordering more bracelet and jewelry items to keep everything in stock. By now, you shouldn’t have an issue finding what you need. But if you do, it’s a good idea to check online for more stock.
In Conclusion…
So, are you ready to join the friendship bracelet craze? Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan looking to emulate her style or simply wanting to celebrate the cherished friendships in your life, friendship bracelets offer an opportunity for creativity and connection with others.
