The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Matching Jewellery for Sarees

Sarees are a quintessential part of Indian culture and fashion. They exude elegance, grace, and tradition. However, the charm of a saree is incomplete without the right jewellery to match. Choosing the perfect jewellery for your saree can enhance your look, add to your style quotient, and make a statement. This guide will help you navigate through the world of saree jewellery, offering tips and insights on how to perfectly pair your sarees with the right accessories.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the basic principles of matching jewellery with sarees. The key is to achieve a harmonious balance where the jewellery complements the saree without overpowering it. Here are some fundamental considerations:

1. Occasion: The event you are dressing for plays a significant role in your choice of jewellery. For weddings and festive occasions, opt for heavier, statement pieces. For casual or office wear, simpler, understated jewellery works best.

2. Saree Fabric and Design: The fabric and design of your saree will influence your jewellery choice. Rich fabrics like silk and brocade call for opulent jewellery, while lighter fabrics like cotton and chiffon pair well with delicate pieces.

3. Color Coordination: The colors of your saree and jewellery should complement each other. Contrasting colors can create a striking look, while similar hues offer a more harmonious appearance.

Matching Jewellery with Different Saree Fabrics

1. Silk Sarees: Silk sarees are luxurious and often adorned with intricate patterns. They look best with traditional gold or temple jewellery. Kundan sets, antique gold pieces, and heavy chokers also complement silk sarees beautifully.

2. Cotton Sarees: Cotton sarees are perfect for everyday wear and casual occasions. They pair well with silver jewellery, bead necklaces, and simple gold chains. Terracotta jewellery can also add a unique touch to cotton sarees.

3. Chiffon and Georgette Sarees: These lightweight sarees are versatile and elegant. Opt for delicate jewellery like diamond pendants, pearl sets, or minimalist gold jewellery to maintain a sophisticated look.

4. Banarasi Sarees: Banarasi sarees are opulent and richly woven, making them perfect for weddings and grand events. Heavy Kundan or Polki jewellery, elaborate gold sets, and statement earrings are ideal choices.

Colour Coordination and Matching

1. Monochrome Look: Matching your jewellery with the exact color of your saree can create a cohesive and elegant look. For instance, a red saree with red gemstone jewellery can be striking.

2. Contrasting Colors: Choosing contrasting colors can make your jewellery pop. For example, pairing a green saree with ruby or coral jewellery can create a stunning effect.

3. Complementary Colors: Using complementary colors (those opposite each other on the color wheel) can also create a balanced look. For instance, a blue saree with gold or yellow jewellery.

Jewellery for Different Saree Draping Styles

The way you drape your saree can also influence your jewellery choice. Here’s how to match jewellery with popular draping styles:

1. Nivi Style: The Nivi drape is the most common saree style. A statement necklace or choker with matching earrings works well. A waist belt (kamarbandh) can also add an extra touch of elegance.

2. Bengali Style: This drape is characterized by pleats at the front and a loose pallu. Traditional gold jewellery, such as a broad neckpiece and heavy earrings, complements this style.

3. Gujarati Style: The Gujarati drape features a front-facing pallu. A heavy necklace with matching bangles and a maang tikka can enhance this look.

4. Maharashtrian Style: Known for its unique drape and nine-yard length, this style looks best with traditional gold jewellery, nose rings (nath), and green bangles.

Essential Jewellery Pieces for Sarees

1. Necklaces: Depending on the saree and occasion, choose from chokers, long chains, or layered necklaces. Kundan, Polki, and Temple jewellery are popular choices for traditional sarees.

2. Earrings: Chandbalis, jhumkas, and danglers are versatile options that can elevate any saree look. Match them with your necklace or wear them as standalone statement pieces.

3. Bangles and Bracelets: Bangles add grace and charm to your saree attire. You can go for traditional glass bangles, metal bangles, or designer bracelets depending on your saree and occasion.

4. Rings: Statement rings or delicate bands can add a touch of elegance to your look. You can choose rings with matching gemstones or intricate designs.

5. Hair Accessories: Maang tikkas, hairpins, and hairbands can add a regal touch to your hairstyle. They work especially well with bridal and festive sarees.

6. Waist Belts (Kamarbandh): Waist belts can accentuate your figure and add a royal touch to your saree. They are perfect for bridal wear and grand occasions.

Tips for a Balanced Look

1. Less is More: Avoid overloading with jewellery. If your saree is heavily embellished, opt for simpler jewellery and vice versa.

2. Focus on One Statement Piece: Choose one statement piece, such as a heavy necklace or elaborate earrings, and keep the rest of the jewellery subtle.

3. Pay Attention to Details: Make sure all your jewellery pieces complement each other. Coordinating metals and gemstones can create a cohesive look.

4. Consider Your Hairstyle: Your hairstyle can influence your jewellery choice. Updos and buns can highlight your earrings and maang tikka, while loose hair can draw attention to necklaces and hair accessories.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect jewellery for your saree is an art that requires a good understanding of balance, coordination, and personal style. By considering the fabric, color, draping style, and occasion, you can select jewellery that enhances your saree and elevates your overall look. Whether you prefer traditional gold, contemporary designs, or a mix of both, the right jewellery can make you feel confident, elegant, and beautiful. So next time you drape a saree, let your jewellery tell a story and complete your ensemble with grace and charm.