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Writer's pictureAnanya Pujari

The Art of Styling Temple Jewellery: Tips and Tricks for a Traditional Look

Updated: Jan 4




Introduction


Temple jewellery holds a special place in Indian culture as sacred adornments are used to decorate deities, as well as worn by devotees. Characterized by elaborate gold ornaments and gemstone-studded pieces, temple jewellery requires some finesse when it comes to styling. The goal is to achieve a regal and traditional look that honours religious customs. With a few tips and tricks, you can easily incorporate these statement pieces into both everyday and special occasion outfits.


Perfect the Basics First 


When just beginning to style temple jewellery, start by perfecting placement of staple pieces that devotees wear daily. The mangalsutra necklace sits front and center above the chest as a symbol of a woman’s married status. Layer it prominently over any other necklaces. Bangles line the forearm, transitioning from thin to thick stacking towards the elbow. Pay attention to the width and quantity for proportion. Hand and toe rings also follow a specific positioning, always flanking the centermost finger or toe. Once you feel comfortable wearing the essentials, move onto incorporating spectacular statement pieces.


Match Metals for Harmony


One of the easiest ways to achieve balance is by matching gold tones. If you are wearing antique gold temple pendants, choose earrings, bangles and rings in similar rose or yellow gold hues. Stick to the same color metal for the most pleasing visual impact, even if mixing metals is on trend. For special occasions, all-gold everything makes a lasting impression. However, for everyday wear, complement an oversized gold armlet with casual basics like brass bangles or wooden beads.


Curate Contrast with Gemstones  


Opulent emeralds, deep rubies and regal sapphires make frequent appearances in ornate temple jewelry. Play with contrast by pairing gem-adorned pieces with metals in the same color family. For example, team emerald cluster earrings with golden armlets or ruby beads with copper-toned bangles. The right accompanying gems enhance rather than compete with your statement-makers. Diamonds and pearls always make suitable neutral additions for their versatility and religious symbolism. Their sparkle and luster contrasts beautifully against metallic temple jewelry finishes.


Opt for Oversized or Minimal Surrounding Pieces


Temple jewelry pulls heavily from old-world craftsmanship and royal ornamentations, erring firmly on the side of ornate. When styling an intricately detailed necklace or heavy bridal armlet, resist the urge to pile on more accessories that could overwhelm your look. For lighter pieces, incorporate oversized earrings and bangles to provide framing weight. For multi-layered thick chokers and armlets, remove any necklaces and bracelets around those focal points so as not to obstruct their grandeur. 


Skip Trends for Timeless Adornments 


Contemporary runway trends have little place when honoring ancient customs through jewelry. For temple-inspired looks, stay true to beloved ethnic staples. Layer chains of classical gold kasu malai designs or pair gem-bordered jhumkas featuring celestial motifs. Forego dainty minimalism for lavish waist belts, jutting mookuthis and rows of kada bangles. Picture virtues and gods carved intricately into arm ornaments and pendants passed down generations. Recreate that enduring, iconic finery through your accessory choices.  


Play with Contrasting Textures and Patterns


While color provides one dimension of visual interest, also incorporate contrasting textures and patterns for added depth. For special functions like weddings or festivals, contrast fluid silks or brocade fabrics against the rigid coldness of stone-laden necklaces and bracelets. Daily wear temple jewelry similarly pops against humbler cottons and linens. Unakite jasper beads make a striking addition alongside intricately etched leaf-shaped clusters. Pair smoother bangles with heavily textured kadas featuring ridged, granulated designs.


Style Jewelry and Attire as a Cohesive Story 


Approach temple jewelry styling as an opportunity to share heritage through accessorizing. Collect pieces symbolizing faith, family and culture to form a meaningful jewelry wardrobe. Then coordinate outfits that thoughtfully combine beloved fabrics and silhouettes from traditional wear. For instance, don Gujarati silk ghagra skirts paired with ornate hairpins and bejeweled chokers. Or Maharashtrian nose pins with vibrant sarees and antique waist belts. Like the layers of an outfit conveying identity, viewpoint and emotion, so too should temple jewelry present a cohesive narrative message grounded in history.  


Conclusion 


With mindful attention to harmony in color, contrast and textures, temple jewelry shifts from mere accessories into sacred storytelling. Approach curating and styling with the same eye towards intentional, symbolic dressing donned by devotees for generations. Keep silhouettes streamlined, fabric palettes consistent and metals uniform. Most importantly let beloved jewelry heirlooms take center stage as you build modern-day looks to honor age-old traditions with respect and artistry.


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