Summer heat and beachy vibes—it’s a tale as old as time. As the sunny season takes hold, ocean-themed items often experience a rise in popularity, and 2025 is no different. Nautical-inspired pieces have flooded stores these past few months, from sardine-emblazoned bags and necklaces to shellfish- and sailboat-patterned dresses to pearl-studded jewelry. It’s a theme I’ve been particularly enjoying, as someone who loves the ocean and its various inhabitants. But sometimes, while I appreciate the spirit of a trend, I’d rather avoid following it to the letter—and this summer, that means steering clear of the ubiquitous sardines in particular. Instead, I’ve been looking for ocean creature-inspired pieces that will add a pop of fun to my outfit while still bringing the class and craftsmanship I’m looking for, two things I’ve found in Tai Jewelry.
Founded in 2002, Tai Jewelry is the brainchild of Tai Rittichai, a Bangkok-born-and-raised artisan. Rittichai attended California State University, Fresno for college, where her artistic upbringing and love of the jewelry creation process combined with a burgeoning entrepreneurial drive. As she explored her new home state post-graduation, she began to realize that there was a yet-unfilled niche in the jewelry market: fashion-focused jewelry with a fine jewelry appearance. With the passion and skill to fill this gap, Rittichai got to work.
Her first foray into the jewelry market was simple: bracelets that she sold at the Santa Monica Flea Market. It was here that local boutique owners noticed her skill and offered her a chance to grow, one Rittichai happily took. A flurry of jewelry-making and marketing later, her unique, high-quality pieces became a feature in specialty boutiques and retail locations around the world. In 2016, she even got the chance to open her first brick-and-mortar store in Manhattan, where she could showcase all of her stunning offerings for customers. Today, Rittichai continues to find new inspirations and design new pieces, each crafted by Thailand-based artisans, many of whom are women. And her financial support for women and artists goes beyond paychecks; to uplift her native and current homes, Rittichai also works with several charities in both countries.
Of course, the real question is: What all is on offer at Tai Jewelry? The easiest answer, perhaps, is: What isn’t? Earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets of all shapes and sizes populate the site, enticing new and returning visitors alike. From small, stylish and elegant accessories to whimsical, eye-catching statement pieces, there’s something for every preference and trend. This, of course, includes 2025’s nautical theme, with jewelry designs including shells, turtles, and the ever-present sardines.
My personal favorites are the Crab Stud Earrings, tiny little pieces that measure just 6mm by 8mm. Don’t let their small size fool you, however; with their sparkling eyes, gold-plated brass legs and bright-red cubic zirconia body, they’re a truly standout accessory. Each crab earring comes with both a butterfly and plastic stud backing, something I appreciate as someone partial to the latter. And, best of all, they’re the perfect addition to pretty much any outfit. As stylish as they are charming, these crab studs easily complement looks both relaxed and sophisticated (particularly outfits meant for a day at the beach).
Just because something is trending doesn’t mean it needs to be avoided—or to become your entire look. This summer, take the plunge into a world of nautical wonders and other stylish delights with Tai Jewelry, where cute, affordable and wearable pieces meet quality construction. The search for your newest accessory starts HERE.
