hile inspiration for lariat earrings came from lariat necklaces—their lengthiness, flexibility, and gems or tassels often dotting each loose end—that’s kind of where their similarity stops. One clear point-of-difference is that lariat earrings are very of-the-moment modern, while lariat necklaces (though they may be contemporary) have vintage roots.

This week, I’ve been reviewing quite a few on various popular retail sites–big brands like Gucci and Marc by Marc Jacobs don’t seem to be able to keep their version of lariat earrings in stock. (Well, yes, I know, that’s a good problem!)

For jewelry, in general, however, the news is also good, as it looks like their popularity will continue. Not only have I been seeing more of them from contemporary jewelers, but fashion, too, is on their side: The strongest message from 2016’s spring/summer’s runways is one of ethereal lightness and subtle sensuality. And, really, that’s at the aesthetic core of the long, dangly necklaces and earrings. Certainly, both epitomize body-skimming jewelry—each a different body part, of course.

Nonetheless, as you’d expect, while lariat earrings evolve next year, certain nuances will make them “very Twenty-Sixteen” and not “so Twenty-Fifteen.” Among them? Well, most likely, it will be the gem drops often seen at the tips of each chain-or-link of the slim, elongated ear jewelry: They’ll be smaller. Yes, already I’ve spotted that in the newest lariat earrings–and, to me, that signals more briolettes.

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