Embrace a brand sparkling new look!

By Aiden Jewelle Gonzales

CUSTOMISED NATH DESIGNS

Everyone nose that the addition of a nath completes any bridal outfit, but now, the trend is to opt for truly eye-catching (or nose-catching) designs that will complement the bride’s features. Customisation is key, so look out for bespoke designs, from symbols that have significance to the bride, to ones with initials, text, or even names.

MANGAL SUTRA VARIATIONS

If you’re tying the knot in the Hindu tradition, you’ll need some ‘auspicious thread’ to do so, i.e. the traditional black-and-gold mangal sutra that grooms have been gifting brides for centuries. However, ever since Shilpa Shetty debuted a bracelet version of this sacred jewellery instead of the classic necklace, brides have been embracing more modern variations – from Deepika Padukone’s elegant and subtle single-strand necklace, to bracelets, and even rings. Usually, the only elements that stay the same are the gold settings and black beads.

DIAMOND SETS

Diamonds may be the classic engagement rock, but recently they’re making more of an appearance in traditional wedding ceremonies as well. Instead of doing their pheras in kundan (pure gold) or polki (uncut diamond) jewellery, many brides are dazzling in full diamond, diamond-and-ruby, or diamond-and-emerald sets, replete with diamond nath designs. Looking for inspo? Check out Kiara Advani’s emerald-and-diamond wedding set for an aspirational (if heavy on the wallet) look.

ETHICAL, ECO-FRIENDLY, AND REUSABLE

These days, the climate emergency and ethical concerns are forefront in most of our minds, and modern brides are no exception. Many are opting for jewellery that uses recycled thread and yarn, or re-fashioning their mothers’ jewellery into bracelets, headpieces, or more modern pieces. They’re also opting for using local sources, fair trade gold, pearls mined using tropical fish, green-certified pieces, or conflict-free gems (including lab-grown jewels). An example of an ethical brand that sells sustainable Indian wedding jewellery is Zariin Jewellery.

CHURA COLOUR VARIETY

Red, or occasionally white, is the colour of love (and wedding churas) but if you’re not feeling that scarlet hue, it’s becoming the look du jour to opt for pink churas, or ones that match your outfit. With the advent of pastel shades for wedding-day looks, blush-pink or peach bangles seem to be the way to go – just check out Kiara Advani’s wedding look.

HEADPIECES GALORE!

A maangtika is standard when you’re heading to the mandap but now, more is more when it comes to headpieces. Brides are opting for elaborate and chunky maangtikas or pairing them with a matching passa (a piece of jewellery worn on the side of the head); a sheesh patti (an elaborate headband); or a matha patti (worn on the forehand in lieu of a veil). Many are embracing contemporary designs with these headpieces, but make sure to take the shape of your face into account when choosing the ones that are right for you.

UNIQUE KALEERA DESIGNS

Traditionally, kaleeras were made with lightweight metal and were bangle additions given to the bride by her sisters and bhabhis as charms for good luck. Now, brides are often choosing their own to match their outfits, and the sky’s the limit when it comes to the designs. From floral bouquets, to strands of pearls, to chandeliers of tassels, seashells, and meenakari work, you can definitely make a statement with your kaleeras as the modern bride.

NECKLACE LAYERING

Layering necklaces is a tale as old as time, but recently, maharani-style, double- layered and chunky necklaces have been all the rage. They’re often beaded, with diamonds and intricate designs for a royal look. Alternatively, multi-layer necklaces with four or more layers are gaining popularity, made with a variety of designs, settings, or work: from mirror work to stone, pearls, pacchi and kundan. If you opt for this look, make sure to tone downyour other jewellery so you don’t overwhelm your outfit.