Is Temple Jewellery in Trend? How People Wear It Now
Temple jewellery has been worn in South India for centuries, and it has never really gone out of fashion. What changes is how people wear it. Today it shows up at weddings, as it always has, but also with office kurtas, college farewells and even western dresses. Here is why it keeps returning, and the ways people are wearing it now.

Is temple jewellery in trend?
Yes. Temple jewellery is a traditional style rather than a passing trend, so it stays relevant year after year. Its appeal is that it looks meaningful - goddesses, peacocks and lotuses carry symbolism - and it photographs beautifully. Recent years have added lighter, smaller designs that make it wearable beyond weddings.
Why temple jewellery keeps coming back
- Weddings: it remains the heart of South Indian bridal jewellery.
- Cultural pride: many people choose traditional pieces for festivals and family events.
- Photography: the antique finish and detailed motifs look rich on camera.
- Versatility: small pendants and jhumkas suit everyday wear.
Trending temple jewellery designs
- Lakshmi coin (kasu) necklaces. Read the coin necklace guide.
- Peacock chokers with green or pearl drops. See temple chokers.
- Long bead harams with a Lakshmi pendant - layered with a choker.
- Temple jhumkas in every size, from mini to bridal.
- Temple pendants on bead chains - an easy everyday piece. See antique gold-plated pendants.
- Temple waist belts and armlets for brides.
How people wear temple jewellery now
- With a silk saree: the classic - choker plus haram and jhumkas. Read how to style temple jewellery with sarees.
- With a lehenga: a temple choker for a South Indian touch on a North Indian outfit.
- With a kurta: a single temple pendant or mini jhumkas. Read temple jewellery for daily wear.
- With western wear: a temple pendant with a black dress or white shirt. Read jewellery for western dresses.
- For dance: the full Bharatanatyam set. Read temple jewellery for Bharatanatyam.
Temple jewellery vs other trending styles
- Kundan and Polki-style: popular for North Indian weddings and receptions.
- AD / crystal: popular for parties and modern brides.
- Oxidised: popular for casual and festive fusion looks.
Temple jewellery sits alongside these as the traditional South Indian choice. Read temple vs Kundan jewellery.
Tips for wearing it in a modern way
- One temple piece, the rest minimal.
- Mix with plain fabrics so the detail stands out.
- Choose antique finish for a more authentic look.
Temple jewellery for young women and college
Smaller temple pieces have made the style popular with younger women: mini jhumkas for college, a small Lakshmi pendant on a bead chain, or a light choker for a farewell or festival. They carry the traditional look without the weight of bridal pieces.
Temple jewellery for photoshoots
Pre-wedding shoots, festival shoots and maternity shoots often use temple jewellery, because the antique gold finish and bold motifs photograph well in natural light. A choker plus jhumkas is usually enough for a shoot; the full bridal set can overwhelm close-ups.
Is temple jewellery only for South Indians?
No. Temple jewellery is worn across India today, especially with silk sarees. Its motifs - Lakshmi, peacocks and lotuses - are meaningful to many communities.
Temple jewellery colours in fashion
- Ruby-red kemp stones - the timeless classic.
- Emerald-green drops - popular for festive and bridal looks.
- Pearl drops - softer, for pastel sarees and modern brides.
- Plain antique gold - minimal and elegant for everyday wear.
Choosing one colour family and repeating it across your pieces keeps the look current rather than busy. Browse temple chokers for the colours in stock now.
Frequently asked questions
Is temple jewellery in fashion?
Yes. It is a traditional style that stays in fashion, now worn in lighter, everyday ways as well as at weddings.
Can I wear temple jewellery with western clothes?
Yes. A single pendant or small jhumkas with a plain dress is a popular fusion look.
What temple jewellery is trending?
Coin necklaces, peacock chokers, long harams with pendants and temple jhumkas.