Jewelry for the barat bride: building the full bridal set

The barat is the day everyone remembers, and the photos will be on the wall for years. It's also the day you wear the most jewelry at once, so the pieces need to work together. The easiest way is to build the look one piece at a time, starting with the necklace.

1. Start with the necklace

The necklace is the centre of a barat look. A collar sits close to the neck and frames your face, which is why it photographs so well. With a red outfit, ruby tones feel traditional; emerald tones give a striking contrast.

2. Choose earrings that match the necklace

Jhumkas are the classic barat earring. Pick ones that repeat a stone or colour from your necklace, so the set looks planned rather than mixed. If your collar is very full, a slightly smaller jhumka keeps the look balanced.

3. Add a tikka

A tikka completes the face and sits neatly under the dupatta. Keep it in the same tone as your earrings.

4. Finish with kangans

Kangans and bangles finish the bridal look and show up in every hand-held photo, from the nikkah papers to the ring ceremony.

Before the big day

• Do a full trial with the outfit, dupatta and hairstyle, at least a week before.
• Check the weight. You'll wear everything for six hours or more.
• Pack a small kit: spare earring backs, safety pins and a soft pouch.
• Plan the walima too, so the two looks feel different. See jewelry for the walima bride.

You're welcome to bring your outfit to our shop on Ghalib Road in Gulberg and try pieces against it.