Jewels for the Tresses

"Beauty is who you are. Jewellery is simply the icing on the cake" - Misty Burgess

Indian bridal hair accessories are more than just fripperies. They are an essential part of a bride’s transformation, symbolising beauty, tradition and cultural richness. Each piece tells a story, often passed down through generations, and they play a significant role in enhancing the bride’s overall look. The brides often choose their wedding jewellery with great care ensuring that the pieces not only complement their outfit well but also align with their religious customs. The accessories like the maang tikka resting on the forehead, the Jada Billau worn along the length of the braids or the delicate hair chains around the bride’s head give an imperial charm to her entire outfit.

Maang Tikka

Making its first appearance in paintings and sculptures dated 5000 years ago, Maang Tikka is one of the most iconic and essential hair accessories in the bridal attire. It is worn at the center parting of the bride's hair and features a pendant or ornament that rests on the forehead of the bride. The Rajasthani brides wear a Borla, while Maharashtrian brides wear a Mandoria which is fashioned from a strand of pearls. Both of these are equivalents to a maang tikka. The Borla has a unique spherical or dome-shaped design, resembling a fruit called ‘bor’. Unlike the more common flat maang tikkas, the borla's dome shape makes it stand out. The brides who are looking for a royal and traditional look can opt for this unique maang tikka style and incorporate it into their modern outfits. The design of the maang tikka is steeped in tradition, but it also has contemporary variations to suit different bridal styles. It can be paired with a range of hairstyles, from traditional buns to modern curls, while complementing other bridal accessories like earrings, necklaces and nose rings.

Matha Patti