LONDON:

I’ve never been a fan of chokers, but the resurgence of the floral choker has me completely won over. Like everything in fashion, it’s all about context and styling. This summer, the floral choker is back, bringing a fresh dose of romance and positive vibes.

The choker’s roots go back a long way, tracing its lineage to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. During the Renaissance, queens like Alexandra of Denmark wore chokers adorned with pearls and diamonds, setting trends that have resonated throughout time.

Throughout history, chokers have symbolized power, grace, and wealth. Floral chokers in particular emerged as symbols of bohemian spirit, rebellion, and freedom. Fast forward to the roaring 20s and 90s, where chokers were the accessory of choice for celebrities and rock stars, making bold statements on red carpets and TV screens.

Now the floral choker is back in fashion and I am totally in love with it. It is a statement piece that you can’t ignore.

If you’re wondering how to match this summer’s accessories with your predominantly oriental wardrobe, don’t worry. It’s easier than you think. First, invest in a neutral floral choker that you can pair with almost anything. Maybe white, beige, or black. This way, you can dip your toes into the trend and see if it’s for you without it clashing with your vibrant kurtas and printed co-ords. They look better with lower necklines, so keep that in mind when shopping for future outfits.

The most common (and somewhat basic) style is the rosette choker, but if you’re feeling confident, you can experiment with different colors and flower styles. A hibiscus choker, for example, is perfect for a day at the beach or a summer event.

When styling around this statement piece, keep accessories minimal so the choker remains the star of the show. Think stud earrings and a simple tennis bracelet. If you’ve decided to make the floral choker your go-to accessory and can’t seem to part with it even for formal occasions, guess what — you don’t have to. There are plenty of silver and gold options, usually in metallic, that will add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

You can even go to your local jeweler and ask them to make you a custom piece in silver or gold, a real investment in your style. All you need is a reference photo for them to follow and you have something you can wear to a wedding with a lehenga or saree.