Traditional wedding jewellery trends: Try statement earrings or nath, payal for understated elegance

Attending a wedding this weekend? Whether you're attending a close friend’s mehendi, a distant cousin’s sangeet, or a lavish reception, one thing is certain—your outfit and accessories need to be on point.

But as a wedding guest, it’s important to strike the perfect balance with your accessories. You want to look your best and showcase your personal style, but without stealing the spotlight from the bride. After all, it’s her special day, and your role is to complement the celebration with grace and sophistication.

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From statement earrings to delicate anklets, here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect wedding guest jewellery.

• Statement earrings: The centrepiece of elegance

Earrings are a staple accessory that can instantly enhance your outfit. Chandbalis, with their crescent shape, are a traditional choice that pairs beautifully with sarees and lehengas. For a more versatile option, opt for jhumkas, which complement Anarkalis, kurtas, and sarees alike.

Danglers or modern earrings are ideal for Indo-western outfits, adding a contemporary edge. If your earrings are bold, keep your necklace minimal to maintain balance in your look.

• Necklaces: Frame your neckline beautifully

A necklace can be the centre of your outfit, making it look sophisticated and glamorous. Choker necklaces go well with deep necklines or off-shoulder blouses, creating a dramatic statement, while layered necklaces are perfect for adding that regal touch to lehengas and sarees.

For an understated look, a pendant necklace provides a touch of elegance and can be teamed up with kurta sets or minimalist outfits. Match the metal or stones of your necklace to the colours or embellishments in your outfit for a more cohesive look.

• Bangles and bracelets: The touch of tradition

Bangles or bracelets complete an Indian wedding look. Glass or lac bangles add to the festive look, especially during the haldi or mehendi ceremony. To strike a perfect balance, wear chunky kadas along with delicate bangles.

For a more contemporary look, wear cuff bracelets with Indo-western attires. Combine bangles in metallic and colourful designs to create an eye-catching stack that complements your ensemble.

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• Rings: Subtle yet elegant additions

Rings are an understated yet striking way to accessorize. Cocktail rings bring boldness and glamour to evening receptions, while stackable rings provide a modern, chic look. Traditional rings with polki, kundan, or gemstones are ideal for ethnic outfits. When wearing rings, avoid overcrowding your hands—opt for either a statement ring or bangles, but not both.

• Maang tikka: The traditional headpiece

A maang tikka provides an elegant finish to ethnic wear like sarees and lehengas. Kundan or polki work best suits grand ceremonies while tikkas that are kept to the minimum suit people with understated taste. Balance it up by wearing bold maang tikkas with subtle studs and dangles for a pretty balance on your face.

• Nose rings: A bold statement

If you want to experiment, nose rings can add a unique flair to your outfit. Small studs are simple yet traditional, complementing any attire. A delicate, unconnected nath creates a dramatic look while remaining guest-appropriate. Ensure that your nose ring matches the rest of your jewellery for a cohesive style.

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• Hair accessories: Crown your look

Hair jewellery can add sophistication and complete your ensemble. Matha pattis are an elaborate version of the maang tikka, ideal for close family members of the bride or groom. Embellished hairpins or clips adorned with pearls or gemstones are perfect for buns or half-up hairstyles. Floral jewellery, whether fresh or artificial, is a charming choice for daytime mehendi or haldi events.

• Anklets and toe rings: The hidden gems

Often overlooked, anklets and toe rings add a graceful touch to sarees or lehengas. Delicate anklets with minimal designs offer subtle sparkle, while simple silver or gold toe rings work well with ethnic outfits. Keep the designs light to maintain elegance and avoid overpowering your look.

• Brooches: The underrated accessory

Brooches are a stylish way to accessorize sarees, dupattas, or even blazers for Indo-western outfits. Antique brooches pair beautifully with silk sarees or Banarasi lehengas, while contemporary designs work well with capes or structured attire. Use a brooch to secure your dupatta, adding both functionality and flair.

When choosing jewellery for a wedding, match the occasion with your accessories. Opt for heavier jewellery for evening receptions and lighter, elegant pieces for daytime events like mehendi or haldi.

Coordinate your metals—gold-toned jewellery complements gold embroidery, while silver jewellery pairs best with cooler tones. Above all, maintain balance in your look by keeping one statement piece bold while letting the rest of your accessories stay understated.