The wedding season is a time of joy, love, and celebration, but it can also be a time of financial stress, especially when purchasing jewellery. Whether you’re the bride, bridesmaid, or guest, you want to look your best without breaking the bank. Thankfully, plenty of stylish and budget-friendly jewellery options can help you dazzle without overspending. In this article, we’ll explore ten beautiful jewellery options that are perfect for the wedding season and won’t cost a fortune.
Statement Earrings
Statement earrings are a fantastic way to elevate your wedding attire without spending a fortune. Bold, intricate designs can draw attention to your face and add a touch of elegance to your outfit. Look for styles that incorporate semi-precious stones like cubic zirconia, faux pearls, or crystals, which offer the glamour of expensive jewels at a fraction of the price.
- Budget Tip: Opt for earrings made from brass or alloy with gold plating for a luxurious look. You can find these for as little as $20-50.
- Styling Advice: Pair statement earrings with a sleek updo or side-swept hairstyle to ensure they stand out.
Layered Necklaces
Layered necklaces have been a popular trend for a few seasons and are perfect for weddings. Whether you prefer a minimalist look with thin chains or something more elaborate with different lengths and pendants, layered necklaces add a delicate, feminine touch to your outfit.
- Budget Tip: Costume jewellery brands often offer layered necklaces made from gold-plated brass or stainless steel, which look expensive but quite affordable (prices range from $30-60).
- Styling Advice: Wear a layered necklace with a strapless or deep-neck dress to highlight your décolletage.
Chandelier Earrings
Chandelier earrings are timeless and exude a royal charm perfect for weddings. Their cascading design makes them a focal point, complementing both traditional and modern outfits. You can find stunning chandelier earrings with faux diamonds, coloured gemstones, and gold plating that give the illusion of fine jewellery.
Kundan Jewellery Sets
Kundan jewellery has been a staple of Indian weddings for centuries. It’s known for its intricate designs and regal look. While traditional Kundan sets can be expensive, there are budget-friendly options made from glass or faux stones that look equally stunning.
- Budget Tip: Opt for artificial Kundan jewellery sets that include a necklace, earrings, and maang tikka. You can find well-made sets in the $50-150 range.
- Styling Advice: Kundan jewellery looks best with traditional bridal or bridesmaid outfits, especially lehengas and sarees. It adds an ethnic flair to your wedding look.
Pearl Jewellery
Pearls are classic, timeless, and versatile, making them a perfect choice for any wedding event. They add a touch of sophistication to your look without overpowering your outfit. Pearl studs, necklaces, and bracelets can be worn with both modern and traditional attire.
- Budget Tip: Freshwater pearls or imitation pearls are affordable alternatives to real pearls and can cost as little as $15-60. Choose pieces with gold-plated or silver finishes to add an extra layer of elegance.
- Styling Advice: Pearl jewellery is perfect for both daytime and evening wedding events. For a more modern twist, try mismatched pearl earrings or layered pearl chokers.
Antique Gold-Plated Jewellery
Antique jewellery offers a rustic charm, reminiscent of heirloom pieces passed down through generations. If you love the look of vintage gold jewellery but are on a budget, antique gold-plated designs can be a great alternative. They mimic the warmth and richness of real gold but at a much lower price point.
- Budget Tip: Look for antique-inspired gold-plated pieces with intricate engravings or floral motifs. You can find beautiful necklaces, bangles, and rings for $40-120.
- Styling Advice: Antique gold jewellery looks stunning with both ethnic and contemporary outfits. Consider pairing it with velvet or silk sarees for a regal appearance.
Maang Tikkas
Maang tikkas are a must-have accessory for any wedding season. This forehead ornament adds a traditional touch to any bridal or bridesmaid look. They come in a variety of styles, from simple and sleek to heavily embellished, allowing you to choose one that fits your style and budget.
- Budget Tip: Look for maang tikkas made from faux Kundan, gold plating, or silver-tone metals. Prices range from $20-50 for well-crafted pieces.
- Styling Advice: Maang tikkas are typically worn with traditional Indian outfits like lehengas or sarees. For a boho-chic look, you can also wear one with a fusion outfit.
Jhumkas
Jhumkas are traditional Indian earrings that have become a staple in wedding fashion. These bell-shaped earrings are perfect for anyone who loves a classic, ethnic look. Whether they’re embellished with tiny pearls, stones, or gold filigree work, jhumkas add an elegant touch to any wedding outfit.
- Budget Tip: Opt for gold-plated or oxidized silver jhumkas, which are affordable and can range from $20-70 depending on the design and material.
- Styling Advice: Jhumkas pair beautifully with ethnic outfits, especially sarees and anarkalis. For a bold statement, wear larger jhumkas with minimal other jewellery.
Bangle Sets
No wedding look is complete without bangles, and the good news is you don’t have to splurge on expensive gold ones to make an impact. Bangles made from glass, metal, or imitation gold are excellent alternatives that add colour and sparkle to your ensemble.
- Budget Tip: Mix and match different bangle materials like glass, enamel, and faux gold for a rich, layered look. Depending on the material and design, these can cost between $10-50.
- Styling Advice: Layer bangles in contrasting colours for a striking effect, or stick with a single tone for a more sophisticated look. They work well with both traditional Indian attire and modern outfits.
Statement Rings
A statement ring is the perfect way to add a finishing touch to your wedding look. Bold cocktail rings or traditional designs with Kundan or Meenakari work are both great options. These rings draw attention to your hands and can even serve as conversation starters at the event.
- Budget Tip: Choose faux gemstones or cubic zirconia set in gold-plated or silver-tone metals. You can find stunning designs for as low as $15-40.
- Styling Advice: Wear a single statement ring on your dominant hand and keep the rest of your jewellery minimal. This will ensure that your ring becomes the focal point of your look.
Final Thoughts
Jewellery is an essential part of any wedding season ensemble, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little bit of creativity and an eye for budget-friendly options, you can find stunning pieces that complement your outfit and make you feel like a star. Whether you choose bold statement earrings, delicate layered necklaces, or traditional Kundan sets, these jewellery options will help you shine at every wedding event this season.
Remember, it’s not about the price tag, but how you wear the jewellery and carry yourself. Confidence, after all, is the most valuable accessory you can wear!
