Fashionable Folds: Origami-Inspired Accessories

If you weren't aware of the origin of the word origami, it comes from ori meaning "folding", and kami meaning "paper." This seemingly harmless ancient Japanese art of paper folding consumed me as a child after our family hosted Japanese students one summer. The perfect creases, the bold colors, the intricately designed paper, -- it was mezmerizing! So, I'm always happy when origami-inspired designs appear on the runway. (I wonder if there's a word for 'crazed trendinista' in Japanese?)

Amaya Arzuaga - Autumn/Winter 2008 collection

Unlike last year's over-the-top origami-inspired creations, new designs have a more subtle aesthetic (like the recently revealed looks from Amaya Arzuaga's Autumn/Winter 2008 collection). And while origami in fashion may come and go, origami-inspired accessories are here to stay. I mean, really. Does a folded crane ever go out of style!?

Fortunately, instead of working my hands into a paper-folding frenzy, I can afford to wear these creations on my fingers and around my neck (instead of cramping up my already keyboard-worn fingers!) But with such an amazing array of styles to choose from, I'm going to go broke if this origami obsession keeps up. (Oh well, so be it!) Here are my faves:

• 'Sho' Origami Ring at kabiri.co.uk
• Origami Lotus Necklace at fingermagic.com
• Origami Paper on Bamboo Tile Bead Pendant at eclectic-elements.com
• Handcut Glass and Chiyogami Necklace by gamiworks @ etsy
• Silver and Gold Origami Bracelets at lulus.com
• Origami Box Pendant by thejadedog @ etsy
• Pink Tulip Origami Earrings at nicelena.com
• Origami Paper Pendants by madisoncraftstudio @ etsy
• Origami Cube Earrings by starrydesigns @ etsy
• Origami Rabbit Necklace by adorkablejewelry @ etsy