Picking Timeless Ornaments With Jewellery Couturier Sunita Shekhawat

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Learn The Science Of Selecting Timeless Ornaments By Master Jewellery Couturier Sunita Shekhawat

Master jewellery couturier Sunita Shekhawat shares how brides-to-be can embrace sustainability without compromising on style.

Excerpts from the interview with Sunita Shekhawat:

T+L India: According to you, what are the bridal couture trends for this wedding season?

Sunita Shekhawat: While you can have seasonal collections in garments, I don’t believe that there are any trends when it comes to jewellery. I encourage brides-to-be to pick jewellery that makes them happy whenever they wear it. For instance, I often like to wear what my mother gave me as a part of my wedding trousseau and the same goes for my daughter, too.

At the same time, you also need to keep your personal style in mind while choosing your bridal jewellery. As a designer, I want to break this myth and misconception of jewellery trends. With the rise of the digital space and the pressure to have Insta-worthy ensembles, I just want to tell brides to dress for themselves.

T+L India: What are some classic jewellery pieces that a bride should invest in?

Sunita Shekhawat: I remember reading somewhere— ‘What is the difference between ordinary and extraordinary? You add a little extra and it becomes extraordinary.’ So, as a designer, I have always tried to give a little extra to my clients. Whether it is an ornament that is reversible or detachable or can be worn for day and evening events alike, the key is to get more wear out of one piece. For us, as a brand, this is the true meaning of sustainability.

I have always maintained that you should always invest in something that you truly love and will enjoy wearing for many years to come. This would be the perfect family heirloom that can be enjoyed by everyone and also holds immense nostalgic value.

T+L India: What quintessential jewels complement a minimalistic bridal outfit?

Sunita Shekhawat: I truly believe in the philosophy that less is more. The recent minimalist bridal look is not a new trend but rather returning to our traditional, cultural roots. It is the normal cyclical theory of social change. I believe, in the past, we just went through a phase of visually over-the-top weddings. This has finally slowed down. Minimalism has always been a part of Indian culture and I am really happy about its resurgence. Traditionally, most weddings happened in one’s own homes or gardens with minimal jewellery and classic, clean ensembles.

There is a fine line between being understated or overdressed. For instance, if you wear a minimal necklace with a deep red bridal statement sari, you will notice that the entire ensemble just lights up. At the same time, you can wear the same piece of jewellery with a pastel-hued sari and it makes for a perfect daytime outfit. So, understanding these nuances of colours, the vibe of your venue, decor and such is important for a minimalist, sustainable bridal outfit.

T+L India: What is your favourite piece from your collection?

Sunita Shekhawat: My personal favourite is the Neelpushpa collection inspired by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey and the blue pottery of Jaipur. Travel inspires me a lot and this line evokes nostalgia. It is a beautiful collection in cobalt blue and opaque white, a colour that always stays in my mind. I am very fond of the Padmapriya collection, too. It is in hues of pink and green, and also has our most coveted piece, the reversible necklace inspired by the delicate lotus flower.