Wedding season: More than just lehengas

It’s not just fashion trends that change with each season… even bridal wear in India has now expanded its horizon and moved beyond just the lehanga-choli and heavily embroidered sari’s purview.

The ongoing bridal week sees designers put up a range of bridal wear on the runway. And there is literally something in store, for everyone. Designers insist that the bride today knows what she wants and looking different is definitely on the agenda.

Designer Bhairavi Jaikishan says that she likes to mix and match and bring about diversity in her bridal designs.

“Imperfection in the form of contrasts and unconventional mixes form the crux of my designs. I think it’s very important that a bride feels comfortable with her designer. She should be able to identify with the designer’s sensibilities and only then will a bride be able to enjoy her wedding outfit. One shouldn’t just pick up what a designer conjures up for a mannequin for their big day,” says Bhairavi.

Designer Mandira Wirk says that bridal wear today is all about looking stunning and yet at ease on your big day. “Not many brides today like to be mowed down by the weight of their bridal outfit. A bride should be able to enjoy her wedding, even if it means just standing in one place, to greet the guests, for hours at a stretch. Imagine having to do that in a 30-kilo bridal outfit,” smiles Mandira.

Designer Pallavi Jaikishan says that even though brides are getting increasingly experimental today, there still is a huge market for the classic lovers. One just has to revamp it in new-age materials. Pallavi’s new bridal line sees a lot of tule, French lace, silk and Duchess satin used to create a garment. “Classics will never go out of fashion. In fact, they look more beautiful each time,” says Pallavi.

Both Mandira and Bhairavi, however, agree that with the right use of materials, a bride can even run a marathon in her wedding outfit. “Destination weddings are in vogue right now. So brides prefer outfits that will enable them to walk around and have a gala time,” says Bhairavi.

“They also prefer elements that can be used in separate ensembles later on. The dupatta, for instance, can give an outfit a completely different look. Even the choli, when matched appropriately can re define the look of a garment. Brides don’t just want to store their wedding outfit. It’s more practical to be able to enjoy elements of the garment every once in a while,” says Mandira.