Make a statement, one piece at a time
In Bangladesh’s jewellery scene, personalised statement designs that help individuals stand out have become increasingly popular as a way to express individuality
In 18th-century Europe, aristocrats often wore oversized jewellery to showcase power and individuality. They adorned themselves with grand brooches, layered necklaces, and bold rings, each crafted from gold, silver, and precious stones — not only as a fashion statement but also as a quiet signal of social standing.
Today, statement jewellery serves a similar purpose, but it's less about hierarchy and more about individuality, self-expression, culture, and creativity.
Jeenat Jahan Nisha, founder and designer of BJNS, shares, "Today, people are looking for pieces that truly stand out, creating unique jewellery that tells a story." At BJNS, nearly every creation is handcrafted, often in copper, keeping its natural colour intact.
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Many of Nisha's designs draw inspiration from Bangladesh's rich heritage, ranging from the window grill patterns of the 1980s to jamdani-inspired motifs, as well as nature and rustic, artisanal forms rooted in long-lost traditions. Her vision is to honour these traditional patterns while giving them a fresh, modern twist that remains effortlessly wearable across generations.
Among teenagers, Nisha has noticed a growing preference for smaller, understated pieces suited for everyday wear. Simple lockets in irregular shapes, minimalistic earrings, and delicate bracelets have become favourites, perfectly complementing casual outfits like tops, kurtis, kaftans and more.
BJNS has also experimented with clay in statement necklaces. Though uncommon in contemporary jewellery, clay adds a timeless charm, texture, and depth to the designs, particularly complementing fusion Indo-Western styles.
Maisha Chowdhury, a teen styling enthusiast, says, "I'm not a big fan of jewellery, but I enjoy adorning my hair with DIY pieces."
She often styles her hair in a bun using metal hair clips and proudly shows off her collection of statement hair accessories. "On summer days, I love dainty earrings or a simple bracelet, but my current favourite statement piece is a Hair Bun Cage Accessory with a Lotus Stick."
Since she's still a student and mindful of budget, she turns to DIY styling and gets inspiration from Pinterest and TikTok fashion influencers. So far, she has experimented with using large earrings as decorative pieces woven into braids or pairing a kaan taana with fresh flowers when leaving her hair open. She believes that creating a statement look doesn't follow any strict rules, and it certainly doesn't come with a hefty price tag.
However, for Jinan Chowdhury, in her late twenties, unlike Maisha, bold handmade pieces are her go-to. She points out that long malas, statement necklaces with pearls, shells, or clay, and personalised designs are especially popular for showcasing individuality. Many of these necklaces feature playful or meaningful details, such as phrases, quotes from favourite shows, or engraved names.
Jinan loves layering necklaces and stacking rings to create expressive, effortless looks. She pairs them with solid-coloured tops or mixes them with ethnic, casual or semi-formal outfits, balancing bold statement pieces with subtler ones.
A key part of her approach is mixing materials and finishes, such as combining polished metals with matte textures. For example, wearing a chunky bracelet alongside a delicate single-band ring paired with a stone pendant adds contrast and dimension, naturally drawing the eye to each piece. This results in a curated, layered look that feels modern, chic, and thoughtfully styled without ever appearing over the top.
Fariha Sha Zebin, co-founder and owner of Ayosh, observes, "Brides are increasingly wearing statement jewellery too as a way to express their personality and enhance their wedding attire."
Chandelier earrings, intricate headpieces, and bold necklaces are now used to elevate both simple and traditional ensembles.
Often inspired by nature or tradition, these pieces feature floral, leafy, and vine-like motifs crafted in copper, brass, silver, or gold. Earrings frequently feature cascading drops with pearls, dual or multi coloured stones, or crystals, while headpieces are adorned with beads or kundan work for a regal touch.
Beyond bridal looks, statement pieces are also transforming everyday outfits. Baju, once popular, are making a comeback, often paired with sleeveless, solid-coloured tops. Chokers, black-polished chunky bangles, and bold bracelets have become versatile staples, drawing attention to the neckline or hands while blending tradition with modernity.
Oversized rings, worn across multiple fingers, are also gaining popularity for adding drama without overwhelming the look.
Long ear cuffs inspired by nature have become another favourite among jewellery lovers. These designs often feature a cuff resting on the upper ear, paired with a single piercing or clip-on at the lobe, creating the illusion of multiple piercings.
Zebin notes that younger buyers are drawn to abstract patterns and geometric shapes, while colourful pieces are trending across all age groups. She recommends using contrasting colours to help statement jewellery stand out, ensuring each piece remains a focal point rather than getting lost within the outfit.
Accessories today are no longer just complementary; they've become central to styling. Even the simplest outfit can stand out with the right statement pieces, helping you express who you are, start conversations, and create a look that feels uniquely yours.
