Creating a bracelet inspired by Instagram felt like a natural choice as it’s the platform where I share my designs and connect with others who appreciate creativity. The idea had been on my mind for a while, and the colours were practically predetermined, thanks to Instagram’s iconic palette. But as I began designing, I found myself exploring a new concept beyond colour patterns and layouts. This bracelet sparked questions around how jewellery can be both an expression of personal style and a form of representation, perhaps even a collectible piece for someone’s personal gallery, not just a wearable accessory. That shift in thought took this project in an unexpected and interesting direction.
Most of my previous designs were inspired by personal interests, like watches, shoes, and favourite colours, where each piece could resonate with an individual’s lifestyle or passions. However, a bracelet inspired by a social media platform doesn’t quite align in the same way. It felt different because Instagram is so universal and versatile, serving as both a gallery and a window into one’s life for many people. It made me wonder whether there’s a market for bracelets that aren’t just accessories but emblems of identity. For instance, a bracelet inspired by Instagram might appeal to someone who views the platform as a big part of their identity, or even as a symbol of their work as an influencer.
Exploring this Instagram theme led me to consider jewellery design in terms of aspiration, as much as individuality. I’ve usually designed for the person someone is now, their interests, hobbies, or style. But there’s also an opportunity to design for who people want to be, or how they wish to be perceived. This is something particularly relevant on social media, where many share their most polished and idealised selves. Social media inspired designs could represent one’s ambitions, like an influencer’s bracelet that reflects confidence and creativity. Going forward, I think these insights will shape how I approach new projects, reminding me to consider both sides of identity: the present self and the aspirational self.
For this design, I used colours that are core to Instagram’s logo, a rich red, blended with purples, yellow, and oranges, mimicking the way these hues fade and flow into one another in the app’s gradient. I added a metal spacer bead at the ends of the bracelet, symbolising a beginning and end, as well as framing the colours. In the future, I’d like to experiment with a long spacer to separate the colours more distinctly, creating clearer boundaries between the shades and enhancing the colour flow. These kinds of details make me excited for what’s next, knowing that each small adjustment could elevate the final product.
CONCLUSION
Reflecting on this project, I see it as a turning point in my creative journey. Designing an Instagram inspired bracelet opened my mind to thinking beyond traditional themes and considering how jewellery can embody more complex identities, from someone’s social presence to their aspirations. Each piece I create brings new questions and ideas, and I’m excited to keep learning and investing in new materials that will help me bring these visions to life. The journey of creativity feels endless, and I’m eager to see where it leads next.