When a new fashion trend hits the rails, the equivalent jewellery counterparts hit the shelves too. Fast fashion lets consumers experiment with the varied trends doing the circuit at any one time - but without breaking the bank.

Like vital foundations, each and every spring/summer trend needs a handful of decorative trinkets to survive and this year in particular the new looks are all about the jewels. The season's new razor-cut mini-dress for example, requires a statement necklace to set it off, in the same way that the must-have super-wedge shoe will appear out of proportion without a chunky cuff to balance it out.

Other jewellery trends mimic the major ready-to-wear looks originating from the high-fashion international catwalks. There were adorned necklines at Chloe, serpent bracelets at Roberto Cavalli and plaited sweeping chains at Chanel, while other trends range from animal, retro and bejewelled to fetish futurist and sporty.

Expect birds, butterflies and snakes to hang on scattered pods in Top Shop and H&M. There are bright enamel fruit necklaces (particularly Kenneth Jay Lane's strawberry pendants - adored by A-listers), while a metallic collar necklace dips into the shiny futuristic trend one day and blends smoothly with 60's Perspex bangles the next.

New rave neon bangles can add a vital flash of colour to displays as well as outfits, while owners of the new volume maxi dress will be seeking bulky burnished bronze cuffs to even out the look.

Warm gold is solid for yet another season in the shape of long nautical ropes and Grecian gladiator shields. Freshening it up a little are the clean frosted white Perspex statement necklaces (Principles' abstract one is on every fashionista's hit list) and oversized crystal bracelets. Ethnic craftwork is going to get its fair share of interest too, with roomy hoop earrings, multi-bangles to stack up the arms and miniature Buddha charms making a subtle nod to the Euro traveller trend.

Jewellery is a fashion secret that is easily overlooked but the fashion media is helping to create canny consumers. They know that not only can a carefully-accessorised outfit ooze today's sought-after easy chic style, but jewellery can also provide an instant wardrobe update, propelling tired togs from worn and dated to fresh and fashion-forward.