Collection: Waist Chains

Waist Chain for Women: Aranjanam and Kamarbandh

A waist chain is a fine chain worn around the waist or hips. It is called a kamarbandh or kamar patta in Hindi, aranjanam (അരഞ്ഞാണം) in Malayalam, and odiyanam or vaddanam elsewhere in South India. It has been part of Indian bridal and festive dressing for centuries, and today it is worn just as often with skirts, dresses and crop tops.

Our waist chain

Right now we carry one design: the gold snake chain waist chain, ₹649. It is a sleek, minimal snake chain with an anti-tarnish gold finish, and its length runs from 25 to 36 inches, so it can sit on the waist or lower on the hips. It is over ₹600, so it ships free.

Aranjanam in Kerala

In Kerala the aranjanam (also spelt arannanam or arinjanam) is a traditional piece worn by brides and with the kasavu saree or set mundu for Onam, Vishu and temple festivals. Traditionally it is gold or silver and often heavier. A slim gold-plated chain like ours suits the everyday and festive end of that tradition rather than heavy bridal sets. More Malayalam names in our Kerala jewellery glossary.

Kamarbandh vs waist chain vs belly chain

• Kamarbandh / odiyanam: usually a broad, decorative waist belt worn with a saree or lehenga, often for weddings.
• Waist chain / aranjanam: a thinner chain that sits at the natural waist.
• Belly chain / hip chain: the same idea worn lower, on the hips, usually with western wear.

How to wear a waist chain

With a saree: place it just above the pleats to hold them neatly and define the waist.
With western wear: wear it low on the hips over a skirt, dress or high-waisted jeans with a crop top.
With a lehenga: let it sit at the waistline over the blouse hem.

How to measure

Wrap a tape measure (or a piece of string, then measure it) around where you want the chain to sit: your natural waist, or lower on the hips. If the number is between 25 and 36 inches, our chain will fit.

Frequently asked questions

What is a waist chain called in India?
Kamarbandh or kamar patta in Hindi, aranjanam in Malayalam, and odiyanam or vaddanam in other parts of South India. It is also called a belly chain or hip chain.

What is aranjanam?
Aranjanam is the Malayalam word for a waist chain, a traditional piece of Kerala jewellery worn around the waist.

Will it fit me?
Our waist chain's length runs from 25 to 36 inches. Measure around where you want it to sit and check it falls in that range.

Can I wear it every day?
Yes, it is light enough to wear under clothes. Take it off for swimming and store it dry so the finish lasts.

Is a waist chain a good gift?
Yes, especially for Onam or a wedding. Pair it with anklets for a coordinated festive look.