Conversation with a Designer: Seema Gujral

Centre, Magenta Embroidered Lehenga Set, Rs. 116,000; From left to right: Mint Green Embroidered Kurta Set,  Rs. 156,000; Pink Mirror Embellished Lehenga Set, Rs. 72,000; Icy Blue Silk Organza Lehenga Set, Rs. 124,000; Yellow Floral Embellished Lehenga Set, Rs. 112,000; Pink Floral Embroidered Lehenga Set, Rs. 156,000; Red Floral Appliqué Saree, Rs. 92,400

It feels slightly daring to even write that brides in India can pick their dream wedding outfit feeling absolutely stress-free. Thanks to social media, brides are barraged with new options every day – each better than the last post they come across – leading to a lot of disarrays and ultimately, the proverbial bridal frustration. But even then, there are some designers who don’t get lost in the white noise and manage to pop every so often in the public consciousness. One such designer is Seema Gujral, whose designs have managed to not only stay relevant but also desirable - a big chunk of which has to be credited to her understanding of the requirements of the modern traditionalist Indian women. She has managed to strike the perfect balance between preserving the importance of the quintessential Indian silhouette and making it new-age so that the women of today resonate with them.

We indulge in a conversation with the designer to talk about her design philosophy behind her seminal spring couture collection, Reverie, that we think is a must-have in the wardrobes of all voguish brides (or bridesmaids, too!).

What is the idea behind your spring couture collection, Reverie?

Seema Gujral: The word Reverie means a state of having pleasant, dream-like thoughts. This collection celebrates colour and sets a joyful tone for the year to come. ‘Reverie’ is an ornately woven ode to a new dawn, a new hope, and a new way of life brimming with vibrance and effervescence.

Can you talk about some of the embroidery techniques that you have used in this collection?

SG: In this collection, we have experimented with three-dimensional floral motifs, geometric embroidery, and colourful thread work. You'll also find subtle detailing done with beads and pearls, combined with the use of light and flowy fabrics that makes for the perfect spring-season outfits. There's an abundance of effortless georgette drapes, too, that are crafted for the modern and bold muse who loves to embrace her own personal style.

Who embodies a Seema Gujral woman according to you?

SG: A Seema Gujral woman is a reflection of royal charm coupled with a modern sensibility. She is fearless and confident, making a difference to the world with her humble and culturally rooted nature. Designed for the present-day woman, the collection is an amalgamation of contemporary and classic silhouettes.

How do you suggest women style your pieces?

SG: Our pieces can be styled in versatile ways - depending on the occasion and the wearer’s personal style. Reverie, for example, pairs best with delicate diamond jewellery while our other collection, Portraits, is best complemented with traditional jewellery that has a certain old-school charm to it. 

Necklace, Auraa Trends, Rs. 15,000; Floral Embellished Lehenga, Seema Gujral, Rs. 124,000; Potli, Lovetobag, Rs. 8,900

What occasions are best suited to wear your extravagant pieces?

SG: Our collection includes pieces ideal for all occasions - be it a wedding, cocktail, mehendi, or pooja. Customised to the wearer’s personal style and choice, the ensemble can be adapted to fit any occasion. Bright colors are best suited for mehendis and other day-time functions, whereas the metallic outfits look the best at night.

Shop Seema Gujral's latest collection on azafashions.com and in the Aza stores.