The Grand Return of 'More is More'
The pendulum of fashion is swinging back towards grandeur, and nowhere is this more apparent than in Indian festive jewellery. For years, minimalism and delicate pieces dominated, but the mood for 2026 is one of expressive individuality and cultural celebration.
This return to maximalism isn't about overwhelming excess; it's an intentional and smarter approach to being bold. It reflects a collective desire to embrace heritage, craftsmanship, and the pure joy of dressing up for special occasions. This trend is about reconnecting with tradition, whether through reimagined vintage styles or the unapologetic splendour of bridal-inspired pieces. It’s a confident declaration that celebrates both personal style and cultural identity.
Mastering the Art of the Layered Necklace
Layering necklaces is the heart of the maximalist jewellery movement. The key to a stunning look isn't just piling on pieces, but creating a harmonious composition. The foundational rule is to vary the lengths, ensuring each necklace has its own space to shine. A classic and timeless formula involves a trio: a choker that sits high on the neck, a mid-length necklace, and a longer haar or chain that extends down. Don't be afraid to mix weights and textures—pair a substantial kundan or temple-style piece with more delicate chains to create depth and visual interest. The goal is to build a look that feels curated and personal, telling a story through different styles and finishes.
A Symphony of Styles: What to Layer
The beauty of this trend lies in its versatility. You can mix and match various traditional and contemporary styles to create a signature look. Kundan jewellery, with its intricate glass-work, remains a festive favourite and layers beautifully. Temple jewellery, featuring motifs of deities and nature, adds a touch of divine heritage. For a modern fusion look, consider pairing a traditional choker with contemporary chains, or mixing metals like gold and silver. Pearls, especially in multi-strand arrangements or baroque forms, are also making a major comeback, adding a regal elegance to any layered stack. The idea is to play with different elements until you find a combination that speaks to you.
Celebrity Inspiration for Your Festive Look
Bollywood and social media influencers are major drivers of this maximalist wave. Celebrities are frequently seen embracing layered necklaces for everything from red carpet events to festive family gatherings, providing ample inspiration. Stars like Sonam Kapoor have been spotted pairing their ensembles with statement necklaces that feature multiple layers of pearls and intricate gold work, fully leaning into the festive mood. Similarly, the younger generation of actresses, including Janhvi Kapoor and Ananya Panday, have been championing the 'desi maximalism' trend at high-profile events. Their approach often involves mixing traditional jewellery like kundan and meenakari with both ethnic and Indo-western outfits, proving how versatile and modern the trend can be.
Beyond the Necklace: Completing the Look
While layered necklaces are the centrepiece, a true maximalist look considers the entire ensemble. If your neck stack is particularly dramatic, you might opt for simpler earrings to maintain balance. Conversely, if you choose to wear statement earrings like oversized jhumkas or chandbalis, a more delicate layering of necklaces might be appropriate. Don't forget your wrists—a stack of traditional glass bangles mixed with heavier kadas can complete the look beautifully. The trend is about creating a cohesive, impactful style, where each element complements the others without competing for attention.
