Some pieces of Indian jewelry are designed to match some trend, while others remain timeless through decades and even centuries. Well, jhumka earrings are one such timeless piece.
Years have rolled into decades, and decades have rolled into centuries, but the allure of jhumkas hasn’t changed a bit. From weddings to festivals, this is perfect for all occasions, which also makes it a must-have piece of jewelry in everyone’s collection.
However, most tend to have a misconception that Indian jhumkas have limited room for styling, and we are here to change that. We are going to make you aware of a few ways you can use these exquisite styles of earrings. This will make you more confident in using them and shop for more jhumkas for your collection.
Key Takeaway:
-
Jhumka earrings are intricate traditional designs that date back centuries.
-
With time, jhumkas have evolved a lot, resulting in many types.
-
Jhumka earrings can be styled in many ways, with both traditional and modern outfits.
-
The key to wearing jhumkas lies in smart styling and creating a balance.
Understanding Jhumka Earrings and Their Different Types
Jhumkas look exquisite, but they also come with a profound backstory that has made them a part of history. Let us take a look at its history and understand how that might have shaped its types.
What are Jhumkas and Their History?
Jhumkas are traditional, bell-shaped, dangling earrings widely popular in India and other South Asian countries. The term “jhumka” comes from the Sanskrit word “jhumki,” meaning “little bells.”
This style of earrings originated in ancient India, and its roots track back to temple sculptures of the Chola dynasty. Jhumka earrings used to be adorned by deities and temple dancers.
However, with time, it secured its place in other cultures from other parts of India. Jhumkas have covered sacred places and become a fashion icon for women coming from different cultures and backgrounds.
While temple-style jhumkas gained popularity in South India, gold versions of jhumka jewelry became famous in Bengal. The style of earrings held its bell-shaped design but started to experience other design changes as it reached different parts of the country.
What Are Some of the Types of Jhumka Earrings?
Indian jhumka designs have evolved a lot over time, and also due to the place it originates from. This has resulted in a few of the following types:
-
Traditional Jhumkas
Just like the name suggests, this is the traditional design that includes the classic bell shape and is usually made in gold, silver, or gold-plated. The design is quite timeless and is often the safest and most stylish option for most outfits.
-
Temple Jhumkas
This bridal gold jhumka design is from South India and is inspired by actual temple carvings. This design often features the gods, goddesses, or traditional motifs and comes with a detailed and heavy look. The style and design make it the perfect addition for pujas and weddings.
-
Hoop Jhumkas
This is a simple jhumka jewelry design that goes with all outfit styles. This is a lightweight, minimal, easy-to-wear design that includes the simplicity of hoops and traditional jhumka shape, all in one.
-
Kundan Jhumkas
Kundan work is quite famous in India, and it includes glass-like stones set in detailed metal frames. Jhumka earrings of this style are quite ornate and eye-catching, and are quite a famous bridal gold jhumka design.
-
Meenakari Jhumkas
Meenakari is quite a famous jewelry style from India, where jewelry pieces are painted with enamel in bright reds, blues, greens, and others. Jhumka earrings of this design are generally deep-rooted in Rajasthani designs and look great in bridal and festive wear.
-
Solid Gold Jhumkas
This style of jhumka earrings is designed either with real gold or gold-plated. It is extremely famous in the Eastern parts of India, like Bengal, Bihar, and others. A solid gold jhumka earring includes an intricate, handcrafted, or filigree design that looks quite opulent.
How to Style Indian Jhumkas?
Indian jhumkas are versatile. These come in a wide variety of designs and styles, which makes it easy to pair them with a wide range of outfits and fashion choices. Some of the ways of styling jhumkas include:
1. Jhumkas with Sarees
Jhumkas are mostly paired with ethnic wear, and sarees are definitely the first choice. Jhumka earrings look absolutely the best with sarees, irrespective of their kind.
For instance, you can pair a pastel chiffon saree with pearl jhumka earrings to create that feminine and romantic look. And when wearing a black saree, you can pair it with ruby or emerald-studded jhumkas for a festive touch.
2. Jhumkas with Lehengas
The combination of jhumkas and lehengas works equally well, just like the saree. This look can work for all occasions, including weddings, mehendi functions, sangeet night, or anything else.
The trick to wearing jhumkas with lehengas is simple: either you can pair them with a necklace or skip it and wear a good-sized jhumka and let it be the star.
3. Jhumkas with Kurta Sets
A good pair of jhumkas can easily elevate the look of even the simplest of kurtas. The key is to pick jhumka earrings that go with your outfit.
For instance, if you are wearing a simple daily wear kurta, then it is best to pick a small polki stud jhumka mini. However, in case you are getting ready for Diwali or other festivals and choosing to wear a silk or brocade kurta set, then you must wear meenkari or kundan jhumka for a grand look.
4. Jhumkas with Anarkali
Styling jhumkas with an Anarkali is all about balancing the outfit's weight. If you are wearing an anarkali kurta that has a simpler design, then you must pair heavy, ornate, or pearl-studded jhumkas.
However, if you are wearing a festive anarkali with a lot of flair, then you must wear metal-only and heavily embellished jhumkas. You can complement the flowy silhouette with traditional gold or silver jhumkas.
5. Jhumkas with Jeans
Jhumkas aren’t just for traditional outfits and can easily be styled with outfits that have a western touch. The combination of a solid color kurta or crop top, jeans, and jhumkas is excellent and has a bold touch.
When creating such a look, you must always wear silver jhumkas, because they work the best for this look. You might go for a traditional jhumka design, but a hoop jhumka is ideally the best choice.
6. Jhumkas with Gowns
Western gowns and dresses aren’t generally the first choice for jhumkas. However, when styled correctly, it looks extremely great.
The best way to style an Indian jhumka with a gown is to pick a heritage design. For instance, imagine wearing a strapless gown with an emerald polki jhumka or a cocktail dress with a polki jhumka. This fusion look is a little different, but it looks extremely beautiful.
7. Jhumkas with Blazer
Oversized jhumkas work great with structured blazers and pantsuits. This is great for creating a powerful yet feminine look, perfect for glamorous events or corporate parties.
However, the key lies in achieving a balance. The best option is to wear an all-black blazer with kundan or polki jhumkas. You must not add any other color to your outfit, or it will completely ruin the balance.
8. Jhumkas with Sleek Bun Look
Styling jhumkas with a sleek bun is a classic, sophisticated, and regal look. This makes the earrings look like the centerpiece of the outfit, and even makes the face look well-structured.
A sleek, pulled-back hairstyle, irrespective of whether it is low or high, helps the intricate details of traditional jhumkas to shine without competition. However, in our opinion, it is always best to choose a bun depending on your facial structure.
9. Jhumkas with Ear Chains
The combination of ear chains and jhumkas looks romantic and extremely traditional. These were traditionally designed for heavy jhumka earrings. However, with time, these are also worn with lightweight ones as well.
The ear chains add a traditional, regal, and secure touch, which makes it perfect for weddings and any festivals. To create such a look, you will have to pair intricate gold or temple jewelry jhumka earrings with matching chains.
Pick gold options for traditional and silver or oxidized options for Indo-western looks.
Elevate All Your Outfits With the Right Jhumka Earrings!
Indian jhumka earrings are a fashion must-have. These come in a huge variety of styles and designs, which makes it easy to style them in different ways and with different outfits. The key truly lies in careful styling and balancing; once that is achieved, creating the perfect party-ready or everyday look is beyond easy.
So, if you also want to take your outfits to the next level, then a few good pairs of jhumkas are all that you need. Explore our collection and find the pieces that match your vibe and outfit, the best way.
