Though Queenie Dhody infuses modernity into her designs, her craftsmanship reflects a deep respect for time-tested techniques. The Mumbai-based jewellery designer who believes in creating exclusive statement pieces comes to Chennai with a collection of handmade fine jewellery encrusted with precious and semi-precious stones. Taking a break from her Sunday social whirl, the former Miss India and model-turned-designer does a quick-five for MetroPlus . Excerpts:
It's all about getting noticed Like all my collections this one too is about pieces that make a statement. They are bold and glamorous and creatively-speaking, a departure from clichés. There are some amazing polki designs and pieces that drip diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. I’ve also worked on unusual combinations such as ruby with topaz, and emerald with coral! Every piece is typically Queenie — striking and dramatic. They can’t go unnoticed. The line comprises necklaces, cuff bracelets, cocktail rings and cuffs.
Bridal is big There’s an upsurge in the Bridal/Couture scene. We are seeing many more shows dedicated to this segment. It’s going to benefit the jewellery industry and designers like us who create pieces that combine style and quality. Ours is a culture that has always emphasised an elaborate trousseau. But the synergy between bridal wear and jewellery has never been as big as it is now. People are more careful about coordinating clothes with jewellery and make choices in a way that one complements the other. As for bespoke, I’m not sure it will work in the jewellery market. People like what you give them and adapt to your styles rather well.
Tips and tricks Coloured diamonds are in vogue. It’s happening in a big way in the West, and the trend is catching on in India as well. Some of the stones are really huge and come in a wonderful palette that attracts eyeballs. Cocktail finger rings still hold sway in the fashion circuit. They are so big and bold that they could cover up to two fingers! The cuff bracelet can transform a dull look into something dramatic. I’ve designed quite a few cuff bracelets this season; they are my personal favourites. While purchasing gemstones, check if they are treated. Sometimes, treated emeralds and rubies are passed on as natural ones. The colour of treated stones changes with time, unlike natural ones whose beauty stays forever. Gold will always remain in fashion — at least in India. But thankfully, people are now more open to trying out two-metal combinations (gold with silver, gold with copper, etc). They are also willing to experiment with stone-encrusted jewellery rather than chunky all-gold ornaments.
Celebrity and style From Hillary Clinton and Jade Jagger to our own style icons Malaika Arora Khan and Lara Dutta, I’ve designed for them all. I continue to learn a lot about life and humility from the celebrities who come to my studio. In my opinion, the bigger the name, the simpler and less complicated people they are! It’s humbling that all these graceful women with an individualistic sense of style appreciate and relate to my designs.
The essential Queenie Beauty has been an integral part of my life since my teens when I stepped into the fashion world. I find beauty in everything, whether it’s landscape, art, architecture or clothes. The signal comes from the mind, and inspiration flows… As a designer, my ultimate tribute is when a client feels beautiful in my creation. Design is about this feel-good factor.
(Queenie Dhody launches her new line at Evoluzione, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, today. The show is on till tomorrow.)
