A bridal look is never complete without traditional jewellery. I’m sure most of you have heard of the Solah Sringar, which translates to 16 bridal adornments. It consists of sixteen items for women to accessorise herself from head to toe at the time of her wedding. However, the millennial bride today doesn’t stick to these norms and won’t necessarily wear all sixteen pieces. She will dress as per her comfort but will certainly finish her look with the right ornaments that are either passed down from her ancestors or newly bought from her favourite store. If you’re looking for the complete set of essential jewellery pieces to incorporate in your wedding look, here’s a list.
1. A bridal set
A bridal set consists of a necklace and jhumkis. This is the first and most basic thing for a bride to include in her trousseau. Some of the widely used necklace styles include a Rani Haar (a long necklace that can have more than one chain) and bridal chokers.
2. Mangtikka
The Mangtikka is an essential piece of jewellery for a bride. This hair adornment is placed on the bride’s hairline with a drop pendant that sits on the centre of her forehead, the place of the sixth chakra. This represents the third eye, or in simpler words, the power of the soul, according to Hindu mythology. It is also the centre of preservation that signifies the holy union of the man and woman on a spiritual, physical and emotional level. This graceful accessory comes in a variety of styles today and isn’t only worn by an Indian bride but also by women globally.
3. Hathphool
No other ornament looks as elegant as a Hathphool on the hands and fingers of a bride. The word Hathphool translates to ‘flower of the hand’ and it is just that—a flower-shaped jewel that is made for the back of the palms. It is also known as a Panchangala, or jewel for the five fingers, Haath Kamal, Hand Chain or Hath Panja. It was popularised by the courtesans of the Mughal era but today, the hathphool is worn by brides from different cultures. This accessory has advanced in terms of its design. It ranges from heavy and glamorous for a wedding occasion to simple and chic for western wear.
4. Nath
A Nath is a type of nose ring worn in the left nostril and adds so much charm to the whole look. This ethnic piece is considered to be an ode to Parvati, the Goddess of Marriage. Today, you don’t need to necessarily wear a heavy one, in case you find it uncomfortable to wear. There are lighter pieces available too even a clip-on would look equally beautiful and is the best option if you don’t have your nose pierced.
5. Bangles or bridal bracelets
A bridal ensemble is never complete without bangles or multiple kadas (bridal bracelets). The modern bride today doesn’t necessarily wear the traditional red and green glass bangles. Instead, she opts for white, gold and diamond churis. Bangles have always been a part of our Indian culture and every bride must own a set that matches with her bridal outfit because it not only makes your hands look fuller but also adds so much beauty to the ensemble.
6. Payal
A simple or an elaborately designed Payal or anklet completes a bride’s look with so much finesse. Made from silver metal and embellished with beads or hanging bells, a payal gives a ringing sound when a bride walks. It is said that when a bride enters with payals on her feet, it signifies the entry of Goddess Lakshmi. It’s an additional element to the henna, which is designed on the feet of the bride.
If you’re a bride-to-be, let me know in the comments below if you consider any other jewellery pieces as essential to your bridal trousseau, apart from the ones mentioned above.
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