Once a bold street-style accessory or beachwear favourite, the body chain is now being reimagined on runways and red carpets — woven seamlessly into couture. This bold accessory has evolved into a statement of power, sensuality, and avant-garde artistry.
Take for an instance, Ananya Panday’s look at the Lakmē x AK|OK Anamika Khanna opening show earlier this year. Ananya stunned in high-waisted flared satin pants in a deep cerulean blue, crafted with intricate silver embroidery and metallic embellishments, with cut-work details gracing the seams and sides. Paired with an embellished bralette, the ensemble broke the mould of conventional Indianwear. But it was the blouse’s dramatic styling that truly stole the show — it was crafted with metal and chain detailing that mimicked a sari pallu, evocative of ancient warrior armour, yet undeniably chic. This was a modern reinterpretation of traditional Indian draping, proving that heritage and futuristic fashion can, indeed, co-exist. Accessorised with stacked silver bangles and chunky kadas, Ananya’s look exuded strength and sparkle — boss energy wrapped in fluid elegance. The outfit came from AK|OK Anamika Khanna’s Silver Collar collection, which takes cues from the traditional silver jewellery worn by the Rabari tribe — known for their free-spirited, nomadic life and fearless ornamentation. The final impression: strong, and unapologetically feminine.
Cut to Cannes 2025 — Janhvi Kapoor made a jaw-dropping appearance at the premiere screening of Homebound, wearing a custom Anamika Khanna creation that fused old-world craftsmanship with contemporary glamour. Her ensemble featured a gold-embroidered, open-back corset-styled bodice paired with a mint-green skirt, but the true showstopper was her spine chain, crafted by Aurus Jewels. The piece, part of Aurus’s archival collection, blended traditional Indian aesthetics with custom jade and jadau craftsmanship. Draping delicately down her spine, the chain added a whisper of drama and sensuality, contrasting beautifully with the regal embroidery of the corset. It was a clever way to elevate the backless silhouette — proof that Janhvi isn’t afraid to experiment, and that jewellery can shape a look just as much as fabric.
Also at Cannes, actress Jacqueline Fernandez turned heads at the Women in Cinema event, hosted by the Red Sea Film Foundation. Wearing a crisp, collared white shirt-dress from AK|OK, she brought unexpected edge to the red carpet. The deceptively simple dress was transformed with the addition of a sculptural silver body harness that shimmered under the lights — its chains, tassels, and arm cuffs turning the outfit into something powerful and futuristic.
What connects these showstopping looks — from Ananya’s chain-draped bralette to Janhvi’s spine-adorned couture to Jacqueline’s metallic harness— is the use of body chains as more than just jewellery. They are being embedded into outfits as extensions of the garment, becoming integral to the silhouette, the story, and the presence.
Historical significance
Body chains aren’t just a modern trend — they carry a rich legacy rooted in ancient cultures. In Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, body chains were worn by both men and women, crafted in gold, silver, and precious stones like lapis lazuli and turquoise. These accessories weren’t just decorative — they signified status, power, and spiritual belief, often linked to medallions or talismans. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, body chains became more elaborate and symbolic. Crafted with floral, leaf, and animal motifs in precious metals, they began to serve both ornamental and functional roles, especially in women’s fashion.
In the 1960s and ’70s, the hippie movement revived body chains as a symbol of freedom and rebellion. The punk and goth subcultures of the ’70s and ’80s brought a darker, industrial twist — introducing spiked, layered, and edgy versions that challenged the soft aesthetics of previous decades. By the late 20th century, body chains evolved into sleek, metallic designs that offered both minimalist elegance and bold drama. Today, they’ve fully merged with fashion — ranging from belly and waist chains to shoulder harnesses and garment-integrated styles. Whether worn subtly or as a statement piece, body chains now reflect both heritage and high fashion, allowing wearers to mix tradition with trend.
Seamlessly versatile
Whether it’s a delicate single-strand or an intricate multi-layered piece, body chains are the epitome of styling versatility. Worn under a blazer for a discreet peekaboo effect or layered boldly over a crop top and high-waisted trousers, they offer endless ways to elevate both casual and formal looks. This edgy, avant-garde accessory easily adapts across aesthetics — from minimalist to maximalist, streetwear to couture — blending heritage influences with contemporary design.
Fashion chameleon
What makes body chains truly stand out is their fusion-friendly nature. With minimal effort, they transform an outfit from simple to standout. Designers and stylists are now integrating them directly into clothing. From serving as a connector between a top and bottom, to being draped across the waist, or shoulders, body chains are inherently customisable. They allow for high degrees of personal expression, offering a refreshing departure from conventional accessories. Whether worn as waist chains, backlaces, or shoulder harnesses, body chains inject a sense of individuality that resonates in any fashion context.
Styling tips
For a beach or music festival vibe, layered body chains with coins or shells work effortlessly over bikinis or crop tops, channeling a laid-back, boho aesthetic.
A dainty waist chain styled over high-waisted bottoms brings an unexpected note of elegance to a casual look.
For fashion-forward evenings, nothing makes a statement quite like a full-body harness chain over a sleek gown — opt for rhinestone or metallic versions for added drama. You can also trace the neckline of a slip dress with a midline body chain that dips at the waist, subtly redefining the silhouette.
When working with oversized silhouettes, cinch them at the waist with a delicate chain for shape and a touch of gleam.
For traditional looks, waist chains are the new-age kamarbandhs — perfect for saris with a contemporary edge.
If you’re sporting a co-ord set, add dimension to the uniform silhouette by layering it with a delicate X-shaped body chain that instantly catches the eye.
To channel a Y2K vibe, layer your body chain with belly chains or stacked necklaces.
For festive moments, you could even wear a bejewelled body chain in place of a dupatta — or try placing it under a sheer dupatta for a shimmer that’s seen only when the light hits just right.
In a work-appropriate setting, body chains can still shine — literally. Try minimal chains subtly worn above shirt buttons or underneath a blazer. Sheer georgette tops styled with tailored trousers and block heels also offer a stylish base to wear a chain around the waist, just beneath the fabric.
For a streetwear edit, let your chain peek at the waistline under cropped tees and cargo pants. If you lean toward maximalist styling, go all in with layers — neck, torso, and waist chains — for an unapologetic statement.
Body chains also layer beautifully over bodycon dresses or peek through under blazers and across bare shoulders, offering both structure and sensuality. A backlace, in particular, is the perfect way to highlight a backless gown or blouse — it whispers allure without saying a word. You can even recreate the look at home using chokers, long necklaces, or chains — repurpose what you already have into creative body chains.
To really let the chain shine, go for slicked-back hair and minimal makeup— clean beauty enhances the sparkle.
As for the rainy season, look for stainless steel or gold-plated brass chains— they’re durable, water-resistant, and monsoon-proof.
Pictures courtesy: Instagram page of Lakme Fashion week, Jacqueline Fernandez, Janhvi Kapoor and Getty Images
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