Indian wedding jewellery resonates with neckpieces crafted in polki, jadau, and diamonds along with a stack of gold cuffs. But over the years, the concept of jewellery has evolved in India, making statement hair accessories an inseparable part of the bracket. Think exquisitely-crafted maang tikkas, jadau passas, and hair clips studded with gemstones; hair accessories are the new hero pieces in a bride’s look. Whether you are into interesting buns, intricate braids or want to let your hair cascade naturally, a bit of bling on them can do no harm. With ace designers such as Sabyasachi and Anita Dongre creating well-crafted hair accessories, the trend is here to stay. We’ve curated a list of bridal hair accessories to give you major inspiration.
Statement hair bands
Think beyond the traditional definition of a hair band. Studded with gemstones, crafted with pearls or embellished with feathers, hair bands are the coolest hair accessories for brides this season. What makes them one-of-a-kind is its versatility. Even if you are opting for a minimal bridal outfit, statement hair bands can help you pull off a perfect look. This Outhouse number is a winning one.
Multilayered Matha pattis
Traditional matha pattis never lose their charm. These multi-stringed numbers are a must this wedding season. Made in pearls and gold, their dual toned appearance makes them glam. If you are too adventurous, opt for heavier pieces (remember the one opted by Sonam Kapoor when she closed Ralph & Russo’s couture show?) in all multi-coloured gemstones. We suggest if you are picking up something so decadent, go easy with neckpieces and earrings. Let your statement pieces do the talking.
Perfection of passas
Though considered by many an extra add-on, passas have graduated to replace the maang tikkas. They are grand and beautifully crafted, and add a bit of character to any bride’s look. You need not be a saree donning traditional bride to pick one up. We say pair them with those benarasis and kanjeevarams, and you are good to go.
Fancy hair pins
Hair pins need not be basic. Think dramatic with gold sheen. You can have so much fun with bridal hair accessories – pick up decadent and bejewelled gemstones or crystals. Statement pins crafted in gold or silver are good options as well. We suggest be pragmatic; invest in pieces that can be worn after the big day. The hair pin by Mischo Designs is everything. If you want to personalise your pieces, opt for monogrammed hair pins. Take cues from Isharya.
Magnificient matha pattis
You can hardly go wrong with matha patti. Thanks to the likes of Sabyasachi and Suhani Pittie who have refurbished the image of this traditional hair accessory. Mostly associated with South Indian weddings the hair accessory has now become an inseparable part of every discerning bride’s look. Whether you are traditional maximalist or want to try something avant grade, there are options for everyone.
Classic maang tikkas
You can’t have just one maang tikka for your wedding functions. Invest in a variety of them. Think heavy pieces in jadau, polki, and even mirror work. The traditional Rajasthani ones won’t harm either. Takes cues from Anita Dongre if you want to take the minimal route.
Interesting renditions of hair chains
Statement hair chains are all the rage this season. Part traditional and part bohemian in appeal, they go with every look. So whether you are planning to get married on a beach, a temple or a palace hair chains can be paired with the usual maang tikkas and be looped in. Takes cues from these exquisite Sunita Shekhawat numbers.
Anupam Dabral
Sr. Associate Editor
It was while studying fashion journalism at London College of Fashion that Anupam developed a keen interest in the anthropological aspect of the discipline; for him, fashion only makes sense when seen in the context of its environment. He is always on the hunt for great stories, and in his spare time binge-watches films/shows starring Whoopi Goldberg, Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders.
