Long and lavish drop earrings, featuring luscious colored gems or richly detailed metalwork, caught the eye of accessories editors in the consumer magazines' big September fashion issues. Say goodbye to minimalism, crowed the editors of Elle – words sure to make jewelers smile. The style marks a return to romanticism, but the big drops may look even better paired with stark clothes, according to Vogue's new accessories editor, Michelle Kessler, who wore drop earrings with a simple black shell and white pants in one photograph.

- by Peggy Jo Donahue