Clearly, Gen-Z is into pearls

Diamonds are great, but pearls can be a girl’s best friend, too. From Gaurav Gupta’s recently launched sculptural bridal collection ‘The Vow: Pearl Edit’ to Janhvi Kapoor’s layered pearl strings at her debut appearance on the Cannes red carpet—pearls have gone from traditional to transformative. Case in point: Ananya Panday's ultra-mini pearl dress. Whether you’re the bride or the bridesmaid, pearls are the statement, and not just the side note. Long loved but overlooked, they’ve officially had their glow up and the Gen Z bride can give them her own spin. Be it basra, freshwater or XXL-sized pearls—these stunners are having their moment and now it’s all about making them yours. Consider this your go-to guide for wedding-ready pearls, however you like them—bold, subtle, or somewhere in between:

Find the one

If you’re going for one of Gaurav Gupta's pearl-studded lehengas, think fine details, a deep neckline and statement-making jewellery. A single choker dripping in pearls is all you need to frame the look. The neckline does the work, the choker seals the deal. Pair it with a baroque pearl ring, sprinkled with diamonds. Keep the rest simple: soft curls, flushed cheeks, and a sleek clutch. Because minimal doesn’t mean muted, it just means you know exactly where to draw the eye.

Tiny blouse, bold pearls

If you’re pairing your sari with a bandeau or skimpy blouse, draw eyes with some gorgeous pearl danglers and let your collar bones take centre stage with a layered pearl necklace that brings just the right pop of colour. It’s classic but with a twist, elegant without trying too hard. Stack on a baroque pearl ring sprinkled with diamonds. This look calls for slicked-back hair and dewy skin. Hailey would 100% approve, as will the judgy aunties (they’ll be too distracted by those pearls).

All white (but not) everything

Dressed in all white and feeling the bridal glow? This ruby and pearl choker is your cue to add that pop of colour. A cascade of vibrant rubies, delicate pearls, and natural diamonds—because sometimes more is more, and your wedding day is exactly the time to tap into that. Let the lehenga do its thing, throw in a full-glam face, and let the pearls and rubies pull it all together.

Bare-necked but statement

Even when you want to ditch the necklace, pearls come to the rescue. Basra pearl strung bangles paired with these moissanite-touched floral chand balis with dangling pearls are perfect for gold girls who want to keep it classic. Pair this with a slick updo so your earrings steal the spotlight. Pearls aren't just for necklaces, they’ve got range.

For a little extra

Like we said, we’ve officially retired the dainty single strand (but only around the neck). So, it’s time to have some fun with it. Redefine sari styling with a wink and a whole lot of pearl with Ekaya x Anaash’s accessories. Getting married? Great. Just showing up for the haldi? Even better. Belt and pin your sari or lehenga with these baubles. Stack it, mismatch it. Sometimes the contradiction is all the glam you need.