JOIN USFor Shaheen Abbas, a piece of jewellery is like a good friend who brings out the best in you.
Bollywood’s most-sought after jewellery designer, Shaheen is known for her classic and elegant diamond jewellery. Be it on the ramps or at the B-town parties, her diamonds tell their own sparkling tale.
Shaheen’s journey into the glittering world of accessories began 11 years ago when she started Flower Child, a label for costume jewellery. In 2012, she decided to pay heed to the increasing number of brides who came to her with requests for designs in diamonds. “Making diamond jewellery happened as a natural progression.
It started on a smaller scale while I studied for my graduation degree from GIA in 2013. After that, I launched my own label of diamond jewellery,” says the designer, who loves extremes in jewellery. She’s a fan of both timeless and edgy jewellery (skulls and spikes). Drawing inspirations from everything she encounters — travel, architecture, saris, prints and even the person she’s designing for, Shaheen is a strong believer in the fact that jewellery doesn’t necessarily have to be opulent to stand out. “One well-
designed, good quality piece can speak volumes rather than wearing three heavy sets,” she explains.
In an exclusive chat with Deccan Herald, she sheds light on the varied facets of jewellery, trends, maintenance tips and more. Excerpts:
How does one make the most of jewellery?
I don’t believe in trends. When you are buying jewellery worth a few lakhs, how does it make sense to wear it just for a few months? But what I would say is that one should get the most out of their jewellery. Currently, I am working on a line that is ‘travel-friendly’. This is out of my personal experience. When I am travelling, I hate being without jewellery as I like to wear my rings and bracelets. For instance, I have
designed a choker that can also be worn as a wrap bracelet.
Experimenting with metals...
It has evolved to a great extent. It’s nice to see people not buying just ‘locker jewellery’ now. It’s good that people like to experiment and try edgy designs. As a jewellery
designer, I also feel this doesn’t curb our creativity. Also, artificial jewellery is trending everywhere today — which I love. The more the better, I feel. It offers you more freedom to experiment with metals.
Less is more...
It’s not necessarily a mistake but sometimes people wear too much jewellery. There are some who go about wearing everything they own, looking like Diwali lights! Jewellery can make a statement without being loud. One subtle piece can also work well.
Tips for getting jewellery right...
Always buy certified jewellery from a trusted source.
Go for higher quality diamonds rather than bigger size. Build your jewellery wardrobe a piece at a time. It’s better to own few great pieces than too many average ones.
Don’t be too serious about jewellery. Have fun with it. Enjoy what you wear.
Own or make solitaires. They’re classic and can go down generations. Again, quality over size.
When you’re picking earrings, pay attention to the shape of your face. Pick what frames your face better. If you have an oval face, everything suits you.
Break the rules...
There’s no norm. Whatever makes you feel beautiful, make it a trend. Some days, you feel like a rockstar and on others you may want to wear jhumkas. Simply style
it well. I have worn chandbalis with a gown and it looks great! It’s fun to look different.
Not worth the hype...
I find palm bracelets very impractical. I also don’t like it when people do up their nails with clip-on gold rings and diamond studs. It never looks pretty.
What are the must-haves in every woman’s jewellery box?
Solitaires. Solitaires. Solitaires. In various shapes and sizes.
Some maintenance tips...
It is best to keep your jewellery in plastic zip lock pouches. And preferably, every piece should be kept separately so they don’t rub against each other. These are very simple and effective tips.
Is it ok to buy jewellery online?
It’s not a bad idea to buy online; even I would do it. But you need to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, it has to be certified and from a trusted source. So, a little research is important. Make sure all the details about the quality and size are clearly mentioned. It’s just that online doesn’t allow us to try on the jewellery. When you are buying something expensive, you would like to try it first. And sometimes, what you see in a photograph may not fit you the same way. If these few kinks work out, then it is perfectly fine to buy
online.
Some gifting suggestions for men…
Just sign the cheque and leave the rest to us!