Let's be honest, wedding bells all over have had us reaching out for the same good ol' resorts for the 100th time. Nothing wrong with that, especially if your go-to pieces are classics and failsafe. We understand the mental satisfaction of wearing the stacked anarkalis that were once brand new; but while RSVPing to yet another wedding has given you a sudden pang of 'not this one again', then why not divert your attention to the other end of the spectrum, which is also as foolproof. We mean contemporary, err, concept lehengas (world of a difference between the two), that can satiate your need for something different, and still get it right.
You see, concept lehengas ARE modern, but they're replete with never-seen-before elements, like a flattering structured silhouette, some chic shoulder-play, or lots and lots of additional drapes and layers. Excited to get on the bandwagon? Here are some reliable styles that will get you to groove at a wedding.
Structured metallic blouse? Check! Ruffle dupatta? Double-check! This sage green lehenga by Gaurav Gupta is definitely a head-turner. Wear this off-shoulder number with a diamond choker to take the attention from your decollétage to your neck, or go sans any jewellery.
Expect Manish Malhotra to help you out with attention-grabbing pieces like this. The eggshell lehenga features the hard-to-miss sequin-kashti work along with a glorious cape and a dupatta. Style this exquisite number with statement jewellery like a kundan maangtikka, and let the outfit do all the talking.
Fish-cut or mermaid-inspired silhouettes are back with a bang with this plum lehenga set by Aisha Rao. Flattering especially on petite frames, this rich high-waist number is up for grabs for an intimate ceremony. Complement the off-shoulder puff-sleeves with a pendant necklace and shoulder-duster set.
This lavender style by Bhairavi Jaikishan is giving off major pageant vibes with a plunging sequin blouse and a side-slit. The form-accentuating silhouette is uncommon with traditional lehengas, making it a sexy option for a modern festivity. Style it with contemporary danglers and an embellished clutch to round off the look.
Looking for a versatile option? Take a look at this powder blue layered (or ruffled?) lehenga by Siddhartha Tytler. The style is new and fresh and can work as a skirt for any occasion. The striped crop top surely adds to the glamour. Team this number with embellished hoops and an embellished clutch.
Dare to go OTT? Take a look at this grey (also one of the Pantone colours for 2021) ruffle-blouse and pre-draped skirt combination from Pink Peacock Couture. Works especially for the deeper skin tones, and you can style it with pearl or stone drop earrings and a nose-ring for a bit of a quirky look.
If comfort is on your mind, then resort to this gorgeous style by Seema Thukral. The stunning fusion drape and cowls make the number ultra-modern with the addition of an organza jacket is a nice touch. Wear it with kundan chandbaalis and oversized rings to stand out from the rest.
Thought halter necks were laid to rest in the noughties? Think again because they are making a comeback in occasionwear with this icy-blue style by Rishi & Vibhuti. We suggest trying this tie-up blouse and minimal skirt combo for a wedding with simple earrings which will be your best friend for this outfit.
'Tis the season of figure-framing pieces, much like this blue one-shoulder set by Shloka Khialani. Give the head-turns a good view to look at with this sexy tie-up buckle back. The ruffle layers too are definitely a lust-worthy element. Team it up with a crystal-encrusted bracelet and a clutch.
Loved these concept lehengas? Let us know in the comments below.
