Jewel Report

Shalini Patel has the job we want. The founder of UK-based jewellers Red Dot Jewels flies around the world sourcing exquisite bridal sets, meeting master craftsmen and designing handcrafted silver and semi precious pieces to showcase in her London boutique. She’s a treasure trove of knowledge, so who better to give us the low down on the latest trends in the jewellery world?

LAYERING
Why pick between necklaces when you can wear both? Sometimes more is... more. The quickest route to a grand, regal look is by wearing multiple necklaces but it’s best to stick with one style to keep the look consistent. Start with a choker, followed by one or two necklaces of varying lengths. This looks best with simple or lightly embroidered necklines.


KUNDAN
More than a passing trend and definitely the most popular style for brides is Kundan Polki. It’s one of the gems of India’s jewellery heritage, worn by the wealthy long before the Mughals. Jewellers set the Polki - uncut diamonds - in silver foil before encasing it in a pure gold finish, a technique known as Kundan. Polki is for those who want a distinctly ethnic bridal look, thanks to the intricate work and traditional design. White gold, platinum and pearls pair particularly well, making the set perfect for conventional and elegant bridal wear.


STATEMENT
The traditional look continues to dominate in 2016 with major influences from Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani and Bollywood epics such as Bajirao Mastani. The ornate matha-pati, oversized naath and traditional accessories are essentials for brides seeking hoping to emulate a Mughal or royal Rajasthani style for their Big Day. Thread based embroidery and rich jewel tones work best with statement jewels.


ENAMEL
Having just returned from a design trip in India I picked up on the emerging trend towards enameling. Known as Meenakari, the look has taken the jewellery world by storm with ornaments in different colours and in-laid with smaller stones. Although it’s a traditional look, Manish Arora’s collection for Amrapali favours neon brights for a more contemporary vibe.


NAVRATNA
Navratna is one of the oldest Indian jewellery styles and is inspired by the cosmos. It literally translates to ‘Nine Planets’ where each stone represents one of the nine planets. Since Mira Rajut, Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor’s new wife, chose to wear a large Navratna choker set, it’s enjoyed a surge in popularity and is on track to be one of the key jewellery trends in 2016.


Find more jewellery inspiration at www.reddotjewels.com