The two cornerstones of Indian bridal couture – the lehenga and the saree – have been undergoing periodic makeovers to suit the evolving needs of its wearer. So speedy is this evolution that even outfits of the early aughts start seeming antediluvian when compared to the designs of today. Sarees have become saree gowns – a bodycon dress of sorts that has replaced the need to drape, pleat, and fix with single side zip. Lehengas, too, have become lighter as designers have acknowledged and rectified the suffering that comes along with wearing cumbersome garments. Safe to say that the lehenga skirt and the saree have managed to stay relevant to the millennial and Gen Z fashion savants when it comes to Indian couture.
But while these two silhouettes have been at the crux of their wearer’s sentimentality, there is a component that is slowly elevating the beauty of the lehenga and the saree with equal parts chutzpah but half the attention. It is the humble blouse.
Although blouses are considered to be an important element in the selection factor of an outfit, they have never really been viewed as an important garment in their own right. But if you take a step back and observe these above-the-waist wonders, you’ll notice that they have come a long way from their suffocating designs to liberating ones.
On that note, here’s a round-up of the most modern blouses that are vehemently contributing to changing the narrative of these age-old outfits.
Tiny blouses that artfully bare the midriff makes for a glamorous moment.
Last we checked, rules of bridal fashion are being written, and wearing these semi-sheer blouses is totally in.
Put a touch of skin on display with this halter neck iteration featuring a risqué key-hole.
The butterfly effect has a new meaning. We think it is exaggerated necklines and tapering midriffs.
An iconic wrap-style blouse for those unafraid to take their off-shoulder dreams to new heights.
The reimagined statement blouse rich with birds-of-paradise trimmings. Perfect for those who want to give the bangles a pass.
A barely-there bralette blouse is best worn with a kitsch lehenga like this one.
The Victorian bodice has been given a makeover worthy of 2021. the delicate boning on the sheer body is the right amount of peekaboo.
