What to wear to every function of an Indian wedding

Haldi and mehendi: keep it light

Both are daytime, and both get messy. Turmeric paste and wet henna are hard on any plated finish, so this is the day for small jhumkas, a pair of studs or a single pendant. Skip the heavy necklace set; it will spend the afternoon in the way.

Colourful meenakari earrings suit the yellows and greens of a haldi outfit better than a full gold-tone set.

Sangeet: earrings that move

You will be dancing. Chandbalis and long jhumkas catch the light when you turn, and an American diamond set reads well under stage lighting. Choose earrings you can wear comfortably for four hours.

The wedding: one statement set

This is the function for a kundan or temple-style choker set, or a long rani haar over a heavy saree. If you are close family, a set with a maang tikka finishes the look. As a guest, leave the tikka for the bride's side and let the necklace do the work.

Match the metal to the border. Gold zari wants gold-tone or antique gold-tone. Silver or pastel work looks cleaner with an American diamond set in silver tone.

Reception: sharper and lighter

Receptions lean toward gowns, contemporary lehengas and evening sarees. A slim American diamond necklace with matching studs, or statement earrings with no necklace at all, looks deliberate rather than underdressed.

Pack it so it survives the week

Keep every set in its own pouch and pack jewellery in your hand luggage. Put perfume on before the jewellery, not after, and wipe each piece with a dry cloth before it goes back in the pouch.