6 Essentials for the Non-Jewellery Girl
We get it. You don’t like to change your jewellery on a daily basis. You think in terms of clothes …. But can you really do without a little bit of bling? Especially when it comes to formal events, weddings and festivals. Worry not. Our list of 6 staples is all you need, to build your ultimate jewellery collection. You don’t need anything else. Promise.
1. Pearl Necklace
Elegant, versatile and timeless are just some of the qualities that make pearls the ultimate jewellery classic. Favoured amongst royalty across the world, pearls come in all sizes and colours. Pearl necklaces can be layered with any other gemstone string as well as gold, silver and diamond jewellery. Go for a classic, single line necklace for a delicate look or a decadent multi-layer pearl necklace if you’re looking to make a statement with your jewellery.
2. Cocktail Ring
A symbol of defiance and liberation, the history of the cocktail ring dates back to the Jazz Age, flapper fashion and speakeasies. We say the bigger, more intricate and more interesting, the better. It’s our favourite accessory to style-up any basic look— chill cotton kurtas, saris, deconstructed dresses, pant-suits or a basic white shirt and jeans combination. When wearing a cocktail ring, ditch all other accessories and let it be the highlight of your look.
3. Chandbali
From the Nizams, Rajputs and Mughals to Awadh royalty, none have been able to resist the allure of the chandbali. They continue to top almost every woman’s jewellery Wishlist even today. Characterised by the crescent moon motif (Chand), most traditional versions are serenaded by tiny pearl clusters which add to their delicate appeal. They may or may not have more moons, flowers, fish or jhumkas as part of the earrings. The fact that they are made in kundan and polki make them even more versatile and easy to style. It’s our go-to piece of jewellery for wedding and festive looks and we love creating different versions of the chandbali. We say buy one in each finish – gold-plated and oxidised silver.
4. Statement Necklace
Statement neckpieces have the magical power to transform your look from ragged to red carpet.
The best way to choose a statement necklace is based on the clothes you wear most often. If you are someone who enjoys prints and bright colours, invest in a necklace that is one single neutral colour. It will work like colour-blocking and the attention will be on the jewellery as well as clothes. A classic, layered kundan or pearl necklace, an oxidised silver statement necklace or choker—all will stand out against busy prints or cheery colours.
Alternatively, if you are someone who prefers subtle and neutral colours or likes wearing basics go for more detailed neckpieces with gemstone, enamel, carving and kundan detailing —all of which will add an element of surprise to your look.
5. Stud Earrings
Studs spell power and pizazz. Invest in pairs that you see yourself wearing with many things. It could be a multicoloured stud that can be paired with several coloured gemstone necklaces or a simple silver or gold version that will match almost all outfits in your wardrobe. Choose bold and experimental designs to wear by themselves and buy simpler versions for mixing and matching with heavier neckpieces or with outfits that don’t require too much jewellery.
6. Power Bracelet
Bangles and bracelets are something most Indian girls start wearing as little girls and not much changes when we grow up either!
Wrist jewellery continues to be an integral part of everyone’s collections because of their universal appeal and wearability. In fact, most of traditional Indian wrist jewellery is bold and statement- making. Case in point – multicoloured navratan bangles, raised pacheli bangles, solid cuff bracelets, temple style kadas, hathphools and paunchi style bracelets (kundan or silver pieces bound together by thread) to name a few.
Apart from obvious pairing with traditional and festive clothing, power bracelets look especially beautiful when paired with formal jumpsuits, slinky or structured dresses, kaftans, power suits or luxurious leisure clothing.