Indian men rule the bling: Statement jewellery takes centre stage

Men's jewellery has evolved from subtle, understated pieces to bold, eye-catching statements. Indian men are increasingly embracing jewellery as a way to express their individuality and redefine masculinity. The recent Ambani wedding festivities were a testament to this growing trend, where Shah Rukh Khan and Hardik Pandya made bold statements with their regal jewellery. Heavy pendants weren't just accessories - they were bold declarations of style. This trend goes beyond a one-time event.

Men today are bolder in showcasing their style through jewellery. It is not all about function; it is about making a statement. We have seen great demand for unique and bold pieces because they are an avenue through which a man can express himself. It could be Salman Khan, with his now-famous feroza-silver bracelet, Ranveer Singh with his dazzling gold-medusa necklace, or Anant Ambani with his breathtakingly beautiful diamond brooches. These choices reflect a general, albeit slowly developing, cultural change toward self-expression and luxury. The move is more than a passing phase in fashion; it reflects a general, though creeping, cultural move towards expression and luxury," shares Aayush Soni, managing director of House of Mbj.

Vandana Jagwani, creative director of Mahesh Notandass poses that stereotypes of gender do not define jewellery. "Jewellery has never been a boy or girl thing. Men wearing jewellery is not the latest craze but a revival of a tradition that goes back thousands of years and is engraved in the cultural ethos of India. Historical records portray men more frequently wearing adornment than women as signs of status, power, and culture. Significantly, Indian Maharajas were amongst the pioneers in collaborating with luxury brands such as Cartier-who at that time was known for creating jewellery designs that knew no gender."

The evolution of the perception of men's jewellery in India

In recent years, men's jewellery in India has evolved from traditional and astrological significance to a prominent fashion statement. "Men are now embracing bold, intricate designs that blend cultural heritage with contemporary styles, symbolising confidence and individuality. High-profile events like the Ambani Wedding highlight this shift, showcasing vibrant pendants and modern designs worn with pride. This trend reflects a growing acceptance of jewellery as a means for men to express their unique identities and personal style, breaking away from the notion that jewellery is predominantly for women," says Soni.

Emerging trends in men's jewellery

The world of men's jewellery has evolved significantly in recent years, with a surge in popularity for certain styles and gemstones. Jagwani shares some of the prominent emerging trends:

Piercings and chains: A combination of ear piercings, often multiple, has become increasingly popular, often paired with delicate solitaire necklaces or chains for a refined yet edgy look.

Brooches and cufflinks: These classic accessories are experiencing a resurgence, with designers offering innovative and statement-making pieces. Brooches are no longer confined to formal wear and are now seen as a versatile addition to various outfits.

Gemstones beyond emeralds: While emeralds remain a timeless choice, there's a growing appreciation for other gemstones like tanzanites and sapphires. These stones are increasingly incorporated into brooches and other jewellery pieces, offering a wider range of options for men.

Bold necklaces: Men are embracing necklaces as a versatile and stylish accessory. From delicate chains to bold pendants, necklaces are becoming a more common sight in men's fashion.

Layering and experimentation: Men are experimenting with layering different jewellery pieces, combining metals, textures, and styles, reflecting a broader acceptance and enthusiasm for diverse jewellery pieces.

Balancing Indian motifs in contemporary designs

As a designer, balancing Indian motifs is about clarity and focus, tells us Jagwani. She elaborates, "We aim to keep our design goals straightforward by incorporating no more than three elements into each piece. This method allows us to avoid overwhelming the design and ensures each element stands out. By concentrating on a few motifs, we achieve a balanced and cohesive look."

What's driving the statement jewellery trend among Indian men?

"The increased interest in statement jewellery among Indian men is driven by a desire for self-expression and individuality, with bold pieces making personal fashion statements," says Soni. He opines that high-profile events like the Ambani wedding and celebrity influence have popularised intricate, vibrant designs. "The blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics appeals to those honouring cultural heritage while embracing contemporary trends. Social media and global fashion exposure further fuel this shift, making statement jewellery a symbol of confidence and style among Indian men," he concludes.

The role of social media and influencers

From enhancing exposure to global trends to breaking stereotypes, social media has revolutionised the way fashion trends are disseminated and adopted. "Social media and influencers play a crucial role in shaping men's jewellery trends in India by showcasing the latest styles. Influencers and celebrities regularly feature statement pieces, inspiring followers to adopt similar looks. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube highlight intricate designs in various contexts, normalising jewellery for men and encouraging broader acceptance. This exposure, along with real-time feedback and engagement, drives the evolution and popularity of men's jewellery trends, making it a symbol of confidence and style," explains Soni.

Styling tips

The traditional notion of men's jewellery as a limited accessory category is undergoing a significant transformation. "Contemporary fashion is witnessing a notable shift as men increasingly embrace jewellery as a means of personal expression and style enhancement. This cultural evolution is redefining masculinity and challenging conventional norms," suggests fashion influencer Kanishk Anand. He believes that incorporating jewellery into a man's wardrobe can be a powerful style statement, and a path to leaving a lasting impression. Below, he shares five tips on styling men's jewellery:

The power of statement pieces

A bold necklace or cuff can instantly transform an outfit, serving as the focal point that draws attention. By carefully selecting and styling statement jewellery, men can elevate their style and make a lasting impression.

Balancing act

To avoid overwhelming the overall look, pair statement pieces with simpler garments. This creates a harmonious balance that allows the jewellery to shine without overpowering the ensemble.

Versatility is key

Experiment with different metals, textures, and styles to create unique combinations. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of gold or the modern sophistication of silver, there's a statement piece to suit your taste.

Occasion appropriate

Consider the context of the event when selecting jewellery pieces. Statement jewellery can elevate a formal look, but it can also add a touch of glamour to a casual outfit.

For a wedding: Add a statement gold or silver necklace featuring intricate designs or precious stones to a traditional sherwani or suit for a regal look.

For a black-tie event: Pair a sleek tuxedo with a bold, sparkling diamond or crystal-encrusted bow tie or cufflinks for a touch of luxury.

For every day: To keep it smart and casual, pair a simple white or black shirt with a statement-making cuff or bold cocktail ring for a touch of sophistication.

Confidence

Confidence is the cornerstone of wearing jewellery effectively. It's not just about the pieces themselves, but how you carry them. Remember, when you wear jewellery with confidence, you're expressing your unique style and personality. It becomes a form of self-expression, rather than just an accessory.

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