Lehengas steeped in tradition - think skirts inundated with embroidered floral motifs, heritage zardozi, and cut-dana work, and cholis with scooped necks and 6-inch sleeves - have a certain charm to them. There's a reason we have touted them as classics, and why these lehengas are almost always a part of a woman’s dream wedding wardrobe. However, not every bride-to-be wants to adhere to the strict rules of bridal dressing. With women identifying themselves as modern traditionalists, warranting edits to classic lehengas to suit their individuality is no longer just a design requirement.
An example of a new-age lehenga that we see becoming dear to every contemporary bride in the coming days is the one we recently spotted on Malaika Arora – behold the powder blue, sequin embroidered number from Manish Malhotra.
This outfit which is a part of the designer’s breathtaking collection, Taban, is a sharp turn away from traditional lehenga choices. The dusted hue is rarely associated with Indian weddings. Although heavily embroidered, the metal embellishments and sequin handiwork on a chiffon skirt give it a chic look which is in complete alignment with style sensibilities of modern brides. The sleeveless blouse with a deep neck in the front and the back is a welcome change from its earlier versions with modest necklines skin-covering sleeves.
At first glance it may come across as a lehenga that one should opt for a cocktail or a reception party, in which case, Malaika Arora’s choice of accessories which are a dainty maangtikka, a statement bracelet, and an abundance of rings, seems perfect; however, if you belong to the slightly bolder bridal camp, we suggest you choose this number for your pheras instead to suit the mood of your laid-back intimate wedding.
Inspired by Maneka Harisinghani’s choice of dressing Malaika Arora in opulent emerald stones, we suggest a polki or diamond necklace laced with emeralds. You could stack your hands with the same kind of bangles for an all-encompassing look. For the face, we suggest fresh, dewy barely-there makeup, a crystal bindi, and a maangtikka.
One could drape the dupatta over the head for the traditional ceremony and wear it loosely for the informal reception which follows immediately after.
Click on the image to know more about the outfit which is available on Aza.
Sequin Embroidered Lehenga Set, Rs.575,000
Think Malaika Arora's Manish Malhotra lehenga is what you're seeking for your wedding? Let us know in the comments below.
