Collar necklace in vogue

It has been in vogue for long; a trend that travelled through generations. Passed down from the Mughal era till today, this sole accessory defines a woman’s attitude when she wears it. It’s not just about beautification but about adding a dash of confidence as well, admit most designers and models.

Model Faith Pandey says that this trend has always been ‘quite welcome’ and a personal favourite are the beads. She loves the sense of funk it adds to her ensemble, along with a sense of elegance. Paired with a tube top or a basic formal shirt, the bold and metallic colours of the neckpiece work really well for her. And she completely agrees that anyone can carry it off as long as one has the confidence. “I’m a totally junkie and absolutely adore beads. I love the beads that one can buy off Commercial Street,” she says.

Another model, Dayana Erappa, says, “I don’t wear them often, but would want to team them up with a simple dress. Bold colours work for me.” She feels one word that describes it best would be ‘glamorous’. And while she doesn’t own a collar necklace as of now, she really likes the ones available at Forever New.

Ask jewellery designer, Poonam Soni, and she’ll tell you how the trend has always been around — sometimes obviously and sometimes in a more subtle fashion. “Be it the necklaces from the Victorian era or the chokers during the Mughal era, collar necklaces never ‘went away’. However, the styles have evolved through time.” She says one can pair it with very delicate earrings or just a cocktail ring. “It can also be worn with a formal sari as long as it is slightly away from the neck. Personally, I’d pick a piece that’s more floral,” adds Poonam.

Arati Monappa, owner of the store, Serenity, describes collar necklaces as a permanent trend. “It is a simple design, which becomes the focal point of any ensemble and is highly popular as an accessory; it completes the look just by itself.” She says one can wear it with an evening dress or a sari but the design should vary accordingly, adding, “There are different kinds of collar necklaces available in the market and across price brackets, which is why the trend of wearing them is so popular.”

Her personal favourite design would one with a tribal pattern.
Jewellery designer Deepti Sudhindra and owner of The Jewellery Project, says, “Collar necklaces are widely used by costume designers today. And they spell attitude and style; it makes a bold statement and can be teamed with good footwear and a nice cocktail ring. I like the work of designer Gaurav Gupta,” adding, “Personally, I’d love to wear a collar necklace with a monotone dress and the rest is about the attitude. I love to accessorise!”