Bridal wear has gone beyond the traditional red and maroon colour, embellished with some gorgeous, but cliché zari and embroidery work. We list a few bridal lehengas by some of the best Indian designers – which have defied the long-established look and experimented with colours, designs and styles.
Falguni & Shane Peacock
Bathed in a lovely, peach-ish shade, this lehenga by Falguni & Shane Peacock steps beyond the red and green and gives a youthful, girlish look to the bride. Lace and stone detailing give it elegance while still conforming to the traditional look. The outer net covering on the skirt gives an ethereal touch to the ensemble while the structured choli aptly defines a demure, yet contemporary bride.
JJ Valaya
A part of JJ Valaya’s Fall/Winter 2011 collection Tasveer, this ensemble has been hand crafted from custom woven velvet, luxe tulle and luscious antique solid brocades. Traditional Persian motifs, intricately embroidered with fine resham, and dramatic detailing with semi precious stones, crystals and beads lend mysticism to the rustic Mediterranean hues. It adds a touch of nomadic blue blooded royalty. The tulle peeping out from the skirt lends the lehenga a slightly modern touch as well. The richness of the lehenga will surely make you the cynosure of all eyes present…
Neeta Lulla
This lehenga from Neeta Lulla’s bridal collection is inspired by Shri Hatkala Kalamkari, a technique used in the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh. The kalamkari is handmade by senior citizens in Andhra Pradesh and the paintings are done using vegetable paints. Using a mélange of blue, red and cream in this bright ensemble, the paintings of gods add the creative and touch here. Another way to get celestial blessings, should we say?
Rohit Bal
First, the inky blue colour of this dress, and second, the high collar – both move beyond the characteristics of traditional wedding attire. With some gorgeous appliqué and coloured thread work on the dress, especially, the full skirt, it could double up as an eye-catching bridal lehenga. The bride will certainly be admired by those who appreciate boldness.
