Shahrukh Khan in Diamond-studded Elephant Brooch from Mahesh Notandass
As men continue to explore and embrace this facet of fashion, the jewelry industry is also evolving to cater to this burgeoning market
In recent years, a fascinating trend has emerged in the fashion world: Indian men are increasingly embracing jewelry as a statement piece. This revival of a longstanding tradition is not just about accessorizing but making bold statements that blend cultural heritage with contemporary style.
Vandana M Jagwani, Creative Director, Mahesh Notandass and Founder, Vandals Jewellery, provides a historical perspective on this trend. “Everything old comes back in a newer way. Men embracing jewelry is not a recent trend but a revival of a longstanding tradition deeply rooted in India’s cultural tapestry. Historical records indicate that men often wore more jewelry than women in ancient times, signifying status, power, and cultural identity.
Jagwani further addds, “Indian Maharajas were pioneers in embracing luxury brands such as Cartier, originally renowned for crafting jewelry that transcended gender boundaries. So, it’s like tradition making a stylish comeback with a modern twist and we absolutely love it.”
This insight highlights how the current trend is more than a fleeting fashion statement; it’s a resurgence of historical practices where men adorned themselves with elaborate pieces to denote their social standing and identity. Today, this heritage is being reinterpreted with modern flair, creating a bridge between the past and the present.
Gautam Soni, Managing Director, The House of MBj, emphasizes how contemporary Indian men are redefining style through jewelry. “Indian men are redefining style by embracing bold jewelry as statement pieces. At the Ambani Wedding, they showed how jewelry goes beyond tradition to make a strong fashion statement. Vibrant pendants and intricate designs blended cultural heritage with modern style, symbolizing confidence and individuality.”
Soni believes, men across the country are using jewelry to express their unique identities, proving it’s more than just an accessory—it’s a way to showcase personal style and self-assurance. Historically, jewelry was never confined to women; kings and even ordinary men wore more jewelry than we see today.”
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding, showcased how men can make striking fashion statements with jewelry. It demonstrated that jewelry for men is not just about adherence to tradition but also a medium for expressing individuality and confidence. The vibrant pendants and intricate designs worn by men at such events are reflective of a broader acceptance and celebration of personal style.
This growing trend sees men across India adopting jewelry as a key element of their fashion repertoire, challenging outdated gender norms and embracing a more fluid and expressive approach to personal adornment. Whether it’s a bold necklace, a statement ring, or intricately designed bracelets, these pieces are now symbols of confidence and self-expression.
As men continue to explore and embrace this facet of fashion, the jewelry industry is also evolving to cater to this burgeoning market. Designers and brands are creating collections that cater specifically to men, offering a range of options that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
In conclusion, the resurgence of men wearing jewelry in India is a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion and the enduring appeal of cultural heritage. By blending historical significance with modern aesthetics, Indian men are making jewelry an integral part of their style, showcasing their unique identities and redefining what it means to make a fashion statement.
