Cutting edge modern or downright retro?

These earrings I was quite proud of.  They're not listed yet, but I was all ready to write the blurb about how they are cutting-edge modern, in line with the current 'tribal' trend, mixing geometric with organic shapes, bold and eye-catching, a contemporary and subversive use of pearls etc, etc.  (I tend to ramble on a bit when I really like something...)

Showed them to the OH, who to give him his due, is usually pretty much on the money when I ask his advice on my makes.  He smiles and says, 'Are they your tribute to Downton Abbey?'

(For my US followers, I should explain that Downton is a Sunday night TV serial that's been gripping the nation recently, set just before the first World War.  The dresses have been spectacular.)


Hubby and I have a short, friendly discussion about this.  We've been married a long time, so agreeing to differ is by now relatively painless.  But I'm left undecided.  What do you think?  Modern or retro?  Trendy or vintage?  Or a mix of both?  Your opinions, please, lovely blog followers.