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United Kingdom Costume Jewelry Market Set to Reach $1.94 Billion by 2033

Rising Fashion Consciousness, Online Shopping, and Sustainable Trends Drive Growth in Affordable Luxury Accessories

By Diya DeyPublished 3 months ago 7 min read

According to Renub Research Latest Report United Kingdom costume jewelry market is on a steady growth trajectory, projected to rise from US$ 1.13 billion in 2024 to US$ 1.94 billion by 2033, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.22% over the forecast period of 2025–2033. This expansion is largely fueled by growing consumer spending on budget luxury accessories, heightened fashion awareness, and the widespread adoption of online shopping, which has made costume jewelry more accessible to a broader audience.

Understanding Costume Jewelry

Costume jewelry, often referred to as fashion jewelry, is made from inexpensive materials such as plastic, glass, and base metals. Unlike fine jewelry, it offers a fashion-forward alternative at a fraction of the cost, allowing wearers to experiment with trends without significant investment. The market covers a wide array of products, from bright statement necklaces to whimsical earrings, catering to diverse consumer tastes.

In the UK, costume jewelry has witnessed growing popularity over the years, driven by rapidly evolving fashion trends, social media influence, and celebrity endorsements. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have encouraged users to express their individuality through trend-setting accessories, making costume jewelry a staple for festivals, parties, and everyday fashion.

The rise of sustainable fashion has also contributed to the demand for costume jewelry, as consumers increasingly seek affordable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional jewelry. Costume pieces provide a low-risk way to experiment with styles while supporting environmentally conscious choices, solidifying their position as a mainstay in British fashion.

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Key Growth Drivers

1. Affordability and Fashion Trends

Affordability is one of the strongest drivers of growth in the UK costume jewelry market. Costume jewelry allows consumers to keep up with fast-changing fashion trends without investing heavily in luxury pieces. Young consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are highly fashion-conscious and prefer jewelry that matches their frequently changing wardrobes.

Social media has played a crucial role in amplifying these trends. Influencers and celebrities often showcase affordable statement pieces, which quickly become popular among followers. This trend has created a feedback loop of exposure, desire, and impulse buying, benefiting brands that cater to this audience.

For instance, Katchin, a new UK marketplace launched in January 2023, collaborates with Fossil Group and Mirakl to offer consumers an innovative platform for purchasing jewelry and watches online. This highlights how technology-driven solutions are making fashion jewelry more accessible to wider audiences.

2. Expansion of E-Commerce and Social Media Influence

The rise of e-commerce has been transformative for the costume jewelry market. Online platforms, from international giants to local retailers, provide consumers with extensive choice, competitive pricing, and access to global trends.

Mobile shopping apps have made buying jewelry faster and more convenient, allowing consumers to shop anytime and anywhere. Social media platforms continue to shape consumer preferences, with micro-creators and influencers driving the popularity of new designs.

In July 2025, AG & Sons, a renowned bespoke jewelry manufacturer since 2005, launched trade.agnsons.com, a platform exclusively for retailers and trade professionals. This portal allows users to process custom jewelry orders online, track live pricing, and monitor production progress, reflecting the market's increasing reliance on digital engagement and online commerce.

3. Growing Demand for Customization and Sustainability

Modern consumers increasingly seek personalized and ethically produced jewelry. Customized pieces such as name necklaces, initial rings, and symbolic charms are gaining traction, reflecting a desire for self-expression.

Sustainability is another key factor driving demand. UK consumers are increasingly aware of ethical sourcing, eco-friendly materials, and responsible production practices. Brands are responding by offering recycled materials, hypoallergenic metals, and sustainable packaging, aligning with consumers’ values and fostering brand loyalty.

For example, in May 2025, Hammerson partnered with Jewells to launch four stores across the UK, offering demi-fine jewelry made from gold, silver, eco-friendly lab-grown diamonds, and semi-precious stones. This move demonstrates the intersection of sustainability and affordability in driving market growth.

Challenges in the UK Costume Jewelry Market

1. Market Saturation and Low Differentiation

The UK costume jewelry market faces significant challenges, particularly market saturation. With hundreds of domestic and international brands offering similar products, consumers often perceive little differentiation, making it difficult for brands to establish loyalty.

Price competition further intensifies the situation, as companies often reduce prices to attract customers, impacting profit margins. The presence of inexpensive imports also creates additional competitive pressures. Brands that fail to innovate or focus on niche markets risk being overshadowed in this highly competitive landscape.

2. Quality and Durability Issues

Another major challenge is the perceived low quality and durability of costume jewelry. Products made from base metals, plated finishes, or synthetic stones can tarnish, crack, or cause skin irritation, which undermines consumer confidence.

With increasing awareness of skin allergies and sensitivities, issues with nickel and non-hypoallergenic materials further complicate consumer trust. To address these concerns, brands must prioritize material quality, safety, and transparency. Without improving durability, costume jewelry risks being seen as disposable fashion, limiting long-term growth.

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Segment Analysis

1. Costume Rings

Rings are a vibrant segment of the UK costume jewelry market, appealing primarily to young, fashion-conscious consumers. Designs range from simple stackable rings to bold statement pieces, often updated online and in fast-fashion stores to reflect the latest trends. Customizable rings, featuring letters or symbolic designs, are particularly popular, offering a sense of individuality.

2. Costume Bracelets

Bracelets are prized for their versatility and layering potential. Styles include charm bracelets, cuffs, bangles, and delicate chains, suitable for mixing and matching. Costume bracelets are popular gifts, making them a reliable product category for holidays, birthdays, and friendship tokens. Despite durability concerns, their affordability and variety sustain strong demand.

3. Costume Necklaces

Necklaces remain a dynamic category in the UK market, with styles ranging from minimalist pendants to statement pieces. They are popular across age groups and are often influenced by social media trends, such as layered chains or personalized name necklaces. Fast-fashion stores and online platforms frequently update designs to meet consumer demand. Necklaces are versatile gifts, maintaining their appeal despite common issues like tarnishing and limited lifespan.

Distribution Channels

1. Offline Retail

Offline retail continues to play a pivotal role, with department stores, boutiques, and independent fashion shops offering tangible experiences. Consumers can touch, try, and compare products, enhancing confidence in purchases. Seasonal promotions, especially during Christmas and Valentine’s Day, boost sales.

However, offline retailers face pressure from online competitors offering broader inventories and competitive pricing, prompting many to adopt omni-channel strategies that combine physical and digital experiences.

2. Online Retail

Online channels are increasingly dominant, providing convenience, variety, and exposure to global trends. Social media-driven campaigns and e-commerce platforms together create a powerful sales ecosystem, particularly among younger consumers. Mobile apps, fast shipping, and easy returns further enhance consumer engagement.

End-User Segments

1. Women

Women are the primary consumers of costume jewelry in the UK. They dominate purchases across all categories, from rings and bracelets to necklaces and earrings. Social media, influencers, and trend-driven marketing strongly influence female consumers, who also value sustainability and customization.

2. Children

Children’s costume jewelry is a smaller but growing niche, often purchased by parents as gifts. Products focus on fun, themed designs with safe, hypoallergenic materials. Popular items include charm bracelets, multicolored rings, and character necklaces.

3. Men

While smaller in size, the men’s segment is gaining traction, particularly with fashion-forward accessories like bracelets, cufflinks, and minimalist chains. Growth is supported by evolving fashion trends and increased awareness of personal style among male consumers.

Regional Insights

1. London

London is the largest costume jewelry market in the UK, driven by its status as a fashion capital. The city’s multicultural population, fast fashion culture, and vibrant shopping districts such as Oxford Street and Covent Garden create high demand for diverse jewelry styles.

2. Scotland

Scotland combines heritage and contemporary fashion, with consumers valuing both quality and price. Designs often incorporate cultural themes, such as Celtic motifs, and the market is supported by tourism, festivals, and local craft markets. Online sales are also increasing, particularly among younger demographics.

Market Segmentations

Product Type: Ring, Earring, Bracelet, Necklace, Others

Distribution Channel: Offline, Online

End User: Men, Women, Children

Top Regions: London, South East, North West, East of England, South West, Scotland, West Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, East Midlands

Key Players

Major players in the UK costume jewelry market include:

Louis Vuitton Malletier SAS

CARTIER

Sabika

Yanbal

Richline Group, Inc.

STELLA & DOT

Lulu Ave

Giorgio Armani S.p.A.

These companies compete across design innovation, sustainability, customization, and pricing strategies, shaping the evolving landscape of the UK costume jewelry sector.

Conclusion

The UK costume jewelry market is poised for strong growth over the next decade, driven by affordable fashion, social media influence, e-commerce expansion, and rising sustainability awareness. While challenges such as market saturation and quality concerns persist, the versatility, trend-sensitivity, and affordability of costume jewelry ensure its continued relevance among consumers.

As brands embrace digital innovation, ethical practices, and customizable designs, costume jewelry will continue to serve as a fashionable, accessible, and sustainable choice for consumers across the UK.

Note: If you need details, data, or insights not covered in this report, we are glad to assist. Through our customization service, we will collect and deliver the information you require, tailored to your specific needs. Share your requirements with us, and we will update the report to align with your expectations.

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About the Creator

Diya Dey

Market Analyst

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