The history of bracelets is perhaps as old as civilization. In ancient cultures bracelets were used as amulets to protect against evil. Surprisingly bracelets were not just used for occult purposes but were used as an ornament for adornment also. In eastern cultures, typically India bangle bracelets were used for ornamental purposes since ancient times.
In fact the word bangle is derived from the ancient Hindi word ‘bungri’. Bangles crafted from shells, copper and other metals have been found from different archeological sites in India dating back up to 2500 years. In Indian culture and some other eastern cultures, it is customary for a married woman to wear bangles. The variety and colors of bangles available in these countries is amazing. While western cultures do not have any such tradition, bangles are appreciated for their elegance are an important fashion accessory in western countries.

How is a bangle different from bracelet?

While a bracelet typically has a flexible link, string or wire around the wrist, a bangle is a stiff solid round ring worn around the wrist. The defining difference is that a bangle is essentially rigid and made of solid material and a bracelet is more flexible in design and style.

Bangles – An Essential Fashion

Like women get used to wearing earrings all the time, it is not difficult to get used to wearing bangles. Bangles add character to every dress. Bangles accentuate feminine grace making the wearer express her unique fashion style. From Hollywood celebrities to top models to fashion enthusiasts, all sport the style weather in their daily life or on the red carpet.
What makes bangles so special is the extensive variety available in the design and style of bangle bracelets. Bangles can be thin or thick, curvy or straight, in different colors and designs, traditional, handcrafted to modern, chic and made out of a variety of materials including shells, wood, steel, copper, plastic, acrylic, gold, silver and more. There are angles that include colored gemstones and diamonds adding sparkle and beauty to the bangle.

A new trend highlights stacked bangles. You can either stack up similar bangles or same style bangles in different colors or simply stack up an assortment of different bangles in different material, colors and designs. The best thing about this fashion is that you can never have too many and you can never go wrong. For a simple office look you could choose to wear a single bangle, which adds interest to your look without over whelming it.