A very simple, yet effective way to elevate your whole outfit is through the use of costume jewelry. Costume or fashion jewelry is often mistaken for cheap trinkets that trigger nickel allergies and stain your body with that horrible, blue-green colour after use. Costume jewelry is not always trashy and we’re going to prove it to you. Here are just a handful of our favourite brands that’ll deck you out in elegance, whether it’s your best friend’s dholki you have to attend or a dinner date with bae.
ZOHRA RAHMAN
The meticulous pieces by Zohra Rahman, boasting Lahori hand-craftsmanship are anything but ordinary. Steering clear of bling, her contemporary style features gold and silver tones with copper accents. Channeling edgy vibes, some of her pieces have sculptural finishing while others have sought inspiration from everyday objects. Although some of her designs are not very commercially viable in Pakistan, her designs have earned her recognition in jewelry markets from all over the world – even Iceland.
ALLURE BY MHT
Allure by MHT is true embodiment of grace, class and poise. With hugely, versatile, strikingly colourful yet sophisticated pieces, it’s no wonder Allure has made its way into our favourites. Using a variety of gems with contrasting colours and cuts, Mehreen Tabani’s jewelry line is eclectic and unique. Collaborating with some of our favourite designers like Elan and Sania Maskatiya, Allure offers a range of Eastern, ethnic pieces as well as fusion pieces.
FILIGREE
Putting a modern twist on traditional, Eastern pieces, Filigree is your go-to if you’re looking to pair something feminine yet bold with your outfit. Inspired by hand-painted Mughal artistry and Indian heritage, their jewelry range largely, revolves around meenakari and kundan pieces. From maalas to chand baalis, jewelry for all your wedding events is sorted.
ESFIR
Esfir’s versatile take on jewelry is unmatched. While some pieces are inspired by the Mughal era, each with their own unique, classical twist, others are entirely, modern and quirky. Their work is dominated by the use of bright golds which work in perfect unison with both pearls and gems alike. Some of Esfir’s quirky pieces feature mythological creatures like phoenixes and mermaids, making them all the more eye-catching; perfecting for dressing up any outfit.
CANARY COVE
With immaculately, executed pieces, Canary Cove channels modern minimalism and offers an original take on classics. The bespoke line uses precious metals combined with pearls and semi-precious stones, ranging from modern chand balis to art-deco-inspired earrings. Check out the brand for timeless pieces with a contemporary, feminine feel.