Jewels that define boldness

Wearing jewellery is like a standard fashion norm, and youngsters these days are opting for thick and solid but light-on-weight jewels add to their personality. Commonly known as chunky jewellery, these are usually made from materials such as beads, glass, metal, shells, gemstones, or even wood.

Chunky necklaces, when teamed with the right kind of attire can create a colourful, funky look or even a bold chic one.

“I mostly buy metallic ones. I love chunky (jewellery) because I have a broad physique and delicate jewellery becomes almost invisible on me. They look stylish and strong at the same time.” says 24-year-old Midhat Moini.

From rings to embellished bracelets and earrings to necklaces, chunky jewellery offers a vast variety.

Chitwn D Malhotra, jewellery designer from Dillano Luxurious Jewels says, “When the jewellery pieces are outstanding, self-speaking and artistic, I state them as chunky. Big doesn't mean chunky; boldness describes the word.”

While beads in excess of 14-16mm can be categorised as chunky, they need not necessarily be heavy. Supriya Vijay, founder and designer at handmade jewellery, Gehena- Your Aspiration tells Metrolife, “If the beads are of wood or resin or clay, the pieces are lighter.”

Big neckpieces come in different materials, colors and styles, and are sure to stand out when worn with floral, stripes or tribal prints. “It suits Indian frames. Unlike Westerners, we have bolder and broader frames on which delicate does not go pretty well,” says Moini.
While chunky jewellery of different types, shapes and designs have been making a fashion statement for quite a while now, the festive season is bound to be the right time to flaunt the classic look. Big metallic or crystal, chunky neckpieces are trendy and add bling to an outfit.

Tania M Kathuria, fashion jewellery designer and stylist, TI Couture shares some tips. “If you are planning to wear a saree, lehanga, anarkali suit or any other ethnic outfit, heavy chunky necklaces with stylish designs with gold or silver embellishments or chokers clubbed with a single studded kada can be an ideal match. If you are wearing the antique style neckpiece, do not team it with a set of modern earrings because they might clash and contradict each other.”

She adds, “If you are wearing long earrings, keep your neck bare or you can wear a chunky neck piece and pair it with a small stud or ear cuff.”

Bangles and bracelets complete the package. Kathuria explains, “Chunky bracelets look classy with both ethnic and western outfits, and add a festive hue to your party wear. If you have decided to wear a heavy outfit, you can opt for lightweight gold bracelets studded with vibrant gemstones to tone down the heaviness.”