Stone-Encrusted Chokers to Statement Jhumkas: How Bollywood Actresses Make Jewellery the Real Firework This Diwali

The outfit is usually the easy part. Most people have their Diwali clothes chosen weeks in advance. The jewellery, on the other hand, can take far longer: the right piece has to suit the outfit, the occasion and the person wearing it.

For inspiration, Bollywood offers no shortage of masterclasses. Here are seven looks that show how jewellery can carry an entire festive outfit.

Alia Bhatt: selective, but striking

When the saree is the centrepiece, the jewellery should refine rather than compete. Alia Bhatt pairs a bright drape with golden ear-chained jhumkas, one of the season's most popular trends, and adds weight at the wrists with a stack of chunky kadas and a statement ring. The lesson: choose a few pieces that complete the look.

Pragya Jaiswal: gold, taken further

For an outfit already dripping in gold, Pragya Jaiswal goes further still, with maximalist earpieces, a matching hand cuff and nail rings. Every adornment shares the spotlight, and together they turn regal into spectacular.

Sara Ali Khan: the balanced statement

Sara Ali Khan shows how a gilded look can feel regal without tipping into excess. A stone-encrusted choker, dangling earrings and an elevated maang-tika balance the maximalism of the jewellery against a softly coloured lehenga.

Kiara Advani: minimal, done well

For those who prefer restraint, Kiara Advani offers the template: an understated pearl-stacked choker with a pendant at its centre, and little else. A clean look, finished with precision.

Janhvi Kapoor: heavy, without looking heavy

Janhvi Kapoor leaves her neckline bare and lets everything else speak: statement earrings, a stack of multi-coloured kadas and layered pieces that each carry their own story. It proves that heavy jewellery need not feel heavy.

Sonal Chauhan: full jewellery-fication

Sonal Chauhan pairs a metallic tissue drape with layered neckpieces, a kundan kamarbandh and a generous stack of kadas, committing completely to the festive brief.

Dhvani Bhanushali: edgy yet ethnic

Dhvani Bhanushali brings an indie sensibility, with tasselled dangling earrings and a stack of contemporary bracelets on one wrist. Minimal, modern and still unmistakably festive.

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The takeaway

Whether you favour maximalist gold or a single pearl strand, the principle is the same: decide where you want the eye to go, and build from there. For more festive styling inspiration, see our edit of Aditi Rao Hydari's best ethnic looks.

It is Diwali season. Let the jewellery be the firework.

Frequently asked questions

What jewellery is trending for Diwali?

Statement and ear-chained jhumkas, stacked kadas, layered neckpieces and minimal pearl chokers are among the looks Bollywood actresses have championed.

How do I style jewellery with a heavy saree?

Pick one focal area, such as statement earrings or a choker, and keep the rest restrained so the jewellery and drape do not compete.

How can I wear minimal jewellery for Diwali?

Follow Kiara Advani's lead: a single understated pearl choker with a pendant and no other heavy adornments.