Bangles and Kada: Sizes, Styles, Stacking and Care

Bangles are among the most cherished pieces of jewellery in South Asia. Their soft chime, their colour and their association with celebrations make them part of everyday life and special occasions alike. The kada, a thicker and often openable bangle, adds a bolder statement. This guide explains bangle sizes, how to choose the right fit, popular styles and how to stack them beautifully.

Bangle vs kada: what is the difference?

• Bangles are rigid, usually thinner circles that slip over the hand. They are often worn in sets or stacks.
• Kada are thicker and heavier-looking, and many have a screw or hinge opening so they can be opened and closed around the wrist. A kada can be worn alone as a statement or as the "anchor" at each end of a stack.

Understanding Indian bangle sizes

In India, bangle sizes are often written as 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 2.8 and 2.10. These numbers describe the inner diameter in inches and sixteenths of an inch: "2.4" means 2 and 4/16 inches, for example.

Sizes can vary slightly between makers, so check each seller's size chart.

How to find your bangle size

Method 1: Measure a bangle that fits

Measure the inner diameter of a comfortable bangle across its widest point and compare it with the chart.

Method 2: Measure your hand

1. Bring your thumb and little finger together, as if putting on a bangle.
2. Wrap a soft measuring tape around the widest part of your hand (across the knuckles).
3. Note the circumference and compare it with the seller's chart, or divide by π (about 3.14) to estimate the diameter.

Tip: Openable kada and bangles with hinges are sized by wrist rather than hand, so check which measurement the seller uses.

Popular bangle styles

How to stack bangles

The classic stack

• A kada at each end to frame the stack
• Thinner bangles in the middle
• Consistent metal tone and colour story

The colour story stack

Choose two or three colours from your outfit and repeat them across glass, enamel and metal bangles.

The minimal stack

Two or three slim bangles with a watch on the other wrist, ideal for office wear.

The bridal stack

Coordinated bangles with stones matching the necklace set, sometimes worn with traditional bridal bangles specific to the family's customs. See Bridal Jewellery Guide.

More ideas: Bracelet Stacking.

Bangles for occasions

• Daily wear: two to four slim bangles.
• Office: one kada or a pair of slim bangles that do not clink loudly.
• Festivals: colourful glass or meenakari stacks.
• Weddings: stone-studded and kundan-style stacks.
• Indo-western: one bold kada with a dress or kurta.

Comfort tips

• If bangles are hard to slip on, a little lotion on the hand can help, but wipe the bangles afterwards so residue does not affect the finish.
• Avoid bangles so tight that they leave marks.
• Remove bangles before sleeping, cooking with water and washing dishes.

Caring for bangles and kada

• Store in a bangle box or on a bangle stand so they keep their shape and do not scratch.
• Wipe after wear, especially the inside surface.
• Keep stone-set bangles dry; do not soak.
• Check screws and hinges on kada regularly.
• Separate glass bangles from metal ones to avoid chips.

See How to Store Jewellery Properly.

Key takeaway

Bangles are about rhythm, colour and celebration. Find your size, build stacks around a kada or colour story, and care for the finishes so your bangles keep chiming beautifully for every occasion.

Written by

HANSINI369 Editorial Team

Our editors research jewellery types, materials, care and craft, and review guides when materials, standards or recommendations change. Read our editorial policy.