Go light and chic this Dhanteras

This Dhanteras, experimentation is the buzzword for GenY as they ditch the traditional gold buys for lighter, funkier jewellery

As the tradition goes, Dhanteras marks the beginning of shopping silver or gold ornaments, coins or expensive items for the household. With changing times and experimentation being the latest buzz word, heavyweight jewellery sets have given way to classic and contemporary statement pieces that match perfectly with the festive wardrobe of fashion conscious youngsters. We speak to jewellery designers and youngsters about the latest trends and hotsellers for this Dhanteras.

According to experts, a fusion of classic and contemporary designs in gold and diamond jewellery is very popular among the youth. Sangeeta Dewan, senior design consultant at Zoya says, “The top jewellery trends for this season are classic designs with highly superior craftsmanship while keeping in mind the weight, flexibility and finish of the jewellery. Contemporary designs inspired by different kinds of laces such as crochet and tassels are quite a hit among youngsters. Small pendants, weightless danglers, charm bracelets and tennis bracelets are other popular products this festive season, as they are not very expensive and suit every occasion.”

Go for bold statement pieces, suggests jewellery designer Neety Singh. According to her, invest in lightweight classic designs like florals while keeping the budget in check. She says, “Keep it modern with simple accessories or wear just one statement piece. Diamond or jaded jhumkis, chaand balis, balas, kadas or pendants are great options. If your outfit is inclined more towards an Indo-western look, fusion jewellery works well. A mix and match of diamond, polki and jadau jewellery with colourful and eclectic craftsmanship add appeal to any outfit.”

Gold is totally passé this season, believes jewellery designer Musska She explains, “Youngsters are more attracted towards precious metals like silver, oxidised metals, colourful stones, funky beads, floral jewellery etc. rather than investing in traditional gold.”

Agreeing with Musskan, Neety adds, “They are buying a lot of silver jewellery as it is a cheaper alternative to gold and one could keep adding to their collection season after season. While weighing investment options, consider the functional and aesthetic benefits of that particular asset. Silver jewellery, cutlery, crockery and other display objects are great investment options because you get to enjoy its benefits not just on a monetary level.”

Talking about the best-sellers this season Musskan adds, “This Dhanteras, our funky Ganesha pendants that cost somewhere between `2000 and 5000 are the hot-sellers. Begum earrings and chand balas are another common purchase made popular by Bollywood celebrities like Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor etc.who are often spotted adorning chunky, traditional jhumkas at various red carpet events. Tanjore jewellery pieces with interesting hand-painted pendants or funky, neon beads with a traditional Lakshmi pendant are popular with GenY.”

While keeping alive the tradition of purchasing something on Dhanteras, city based M-phil student Ritu Singh likes to buy something unique and purposeful. “There is no point in buying expensive jewellery pieces that are reserved only for festive dos or neatly stashed in one of the lockers from the day you buy them till the time you grow old. I prefer investing in something that is functional, wearable and lightweight. This Dhanteras, I’m buying a pair of silver anklets and a waist chain. The best part about silver pieces is that they are understated and make you look sensuous and contemporary at the same time.”