A moti bracelet, also known as a pearl bracelet, is a classic Jewellery piece that every woman should have in her collection. Moti bracelets are traditionally made of imitation pearls and adorned with cubic zirconia stones and dangling motifs. These bracelets carry cultural significance in India and parts of South Asia as symbols of femininity, marital status, and coming of age. Besides their cultural importance, moti bracelets are versatile accessories that can complement both traditional and modern outfits. With a few styling techniques, you can wear moti bracelets for casual everyday wear, to the office, elegant events, Indian celebrations, weddings, and even beach vacations.
A Brief History of Moti Bracelets
Imitation pearl Jewellery like moti bracelets became popular in India during the British colonial era. Since genuine pearls were expensive, Indian artisans began crafting beautiful bracelets, necklaces and earrings using less costly materials like lac, beads and glass. Wearing pearl Jewellery signified wealth and status at the time.
Today, moti bracelets are associated with Indian tradition, ceremonies and astrology. They are often given as gifts for significant life events like graduations, engagements and weddings. Brides commonly wear pearl bracelets during marriage rituals to signify new beginnings. Astrologers may also recommend wearing pearls to harness the gemstone’s powers.
Benefits of Wearing Moti Bracelets
Aside from their cultural importance, moti bracelets offer versatility and style. Pearls and stones like cubic zirconia complement both traditional and contemporary fashions. Moti bracelets are available in a spectrum of styles, from demure single strands to ornate multi-layered versions. Their shimmer adds elegance to any outfit.
The pale, neutral colors of moti bracelets act as the perfect accessory that won’t clash with your color palette. They provide a touch of sophistication without being distracting. You can also find moti bracelets with colored pearls and stones for a more dramatic effect.
Moti bracelets are also thought to provide astrological and healing benefits according to Ayurveda. Pearls are associated with the calming energy of the moon. Wearing pearl Jewellery is believed to ease tensions and balance emotions.
Matching Your Moti Bracelet to Different Outfits
One of the best qualities of the moti bracelet is its versatility. Here are some ideas for complementing casual outfits, work attire, formalwear and traditional Indian clothing with a moti bracelet:
Everyday Casual Wear
Jeans and T-Shirt: A casual single or double-strand moti bracelet looks chic peeking out under a shirtsleeve. Opt for a bracelet with minimal embellishments.
Sundress: Accent the femininity of a sundress with a delicate moti bracelet. Try a slim cuff or strand that sits loosely around your wrist.
Yoga or Gym Clothes: Layer a few skinny moti bangles for an on-trend workout look. Pearl bracelets add a touch of elegance to athletic wear.
Business Casual Work Attire
Slacks/Skirt and Blouse: Refine your office outfit by layering moti bangles in varying sizes on one wrist. Choose subtle neutral and pastel shades.
Dress Pants and Blazer: Coordinate a single strand moti bracelet with pearl earrings and a necklace to make your professional outfit more polished.
Cocktail Attire
Little Black Dress: Make your LBD pop by pairing it with a bold multi-strand moti bracelet in bright white or metallic.
Sequined Skirt/Blouse: Offset an embellished cocktail-hour outfit with an understated slim pearl bracelet.
Black Tie or Formal Wear
Floor-length Gown: Accentuate the elegance of a formal gown with a strand of large faux pearls or a sculptural cuff-style moti bracelet.
Evening Dress: Showcase your femininity with an ornate moti bracelet featuring dangling motifs and stone accents.
Indian Traditional Clothing
Sari: Adorn your wrists with stacked pearl bangles to complement the graceful drape of a sari. Vary pearl sizes and shapes.
Lehenga: Pair a moti bracelet that matches your choli with a colorful lehenga for events like Diwali, Eid or a wedding.
Anarkali Suit: Play up the Mughal-inspired style of an Anarkali suit with kundan and polki moti bracelets.
Wedding Guest Attire
Saree: Give your saree ensemble wedding guest chic with kundan passa moti bangles that align with your saree blouse colors.
Lehenga: Finish off your lehenga look with a thick moti cuff bangle, ornate hathphool and/or colorful Lac bangles.
Salwar Suit: Accentuate the neckline of your embellished salwar suit with a single strand moti necklace extension.
Beach Vacation Wear
Swimsuit Coverup: Define your waist over a swimsuit with a wide moti elastic cuff bracelet. The pearls beautifully reflect light.
Sundress/Shorts: Play up your beach goddess look with moti bangles in ocean-inspired blues and greens.
Tank and Shorts: Stack moti bangles high on your forearm to make a casual beach outfit feel glam.
Styling Tips and Tricks
Use these tips to get the most style mileage out of your moti bracelets:
Layering: Stack moti bangles in graduating sizes on one wrist while keeping the other wrist free of bracelets for versatility.
Mixing Metals: Combine silver, gold and rose gold toned moti bracelets for visual interest. Match any earrings and necklaces to one featured metal.
Choosing Length: Opt for a tailored fit with higher stacked bangles or single strand bead moti bracelets. Or go for loose, dangling bracelets to accentuate wrist movement.
Drawing Attention to Hands: Wear your moti bracelets high on your forearm or toward your hand to highlight your manicure.
Minimizing Clutter: Edit your ensemble if you already have fussy Jewellery or prints to let your moti bracelet shine.
Conclusion
From casual everyday wear to formal occasions, the versatile moti bracelet can be incorporated into any outfit. Styling your moti bracelets correctly allows you to get the most wear out of these timeless accessories. Layer, mix metals, balance proportions and control visual clutter when matching a moti bracelet to your look. With endless styles to choose from, you can build a collection of moti bracelets to suit any ensemble or event. Explore wearing these culturally significant and fashionable bracelets to enhance your own personal style.