Jewellery has always been a crucial part of weddings all the world over. And in India where the glint of gold never really fades, jewellery isn’t just an adornment but an investment, indicative of success and stature.
Amrapali’s Trousseau Collection is a breathtaking display of necklaces, earrings, tikkas, bangles, created out of the wealth of heritage, tradition and design so inherent to India. “Every piece of jewellery is a work of art,” says Laxmi Moncourt, Business Head of Amrapali Bangalore. “They are all individually crafted, heirloom pieces.”
And the Amrapali Trousseau Week, which kick-started on March 14 with a fashion show, was all about celebrating the skill and beauty of Indian craftsmanship. And in true Victorian tradition of yore, the showcasing of the collection was made over tea, petite fours, laughter and conversation.
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Models dressed in black drapery sashayed seductively down a makeshift ramp at the Amrapali store wearing stunning pieces which ranged from the traditional South Indian jhumkas, temple jewellery, kasi mala and mango necklace to Mughal-inspired statement pieces, an emerald collection and contemporary jewellery with Victorian sensibilities.
“I deliberately chose black as the jewellery shows up best against it,” says fashion designer Prasad Bidapa who has styled the show.
“The drapes have been inspired by the elegance of Her Highness Sheikha Mozah, wife of the Emir of Qatar.”
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The show-stopper for the evening was actress Aindrita Ray who admits that, “I love this jewellery.
It is so unusual and beautiful and really makes a bride stand out,”she says. Gesticulating to her pearl encrusted balis, she adds, “These are not even heavy — they are so comfortable.”
“As more and more people move over to buying more mechanised products, we end up using less hand-crafted products which is such an essential aspect of Indian culture,” says Prasad. “But we should not forget that hand-crafted products have an intrinsic value because they are unique in itself and can never be replicated. Every piece of jewellery here has a story to tell.”