In this exclusive feature, discover how five Indian designers are shaping bridal couture with timeless elegance and of course, their signature contemporary twists.
Rimple & Harpreet
The accomplished husband-wife designer duo travels back in time for their bridal collection inspiration. Old cinema, vintage textiles, art and museums are some of their sources.
Mehak Bakshi, their muse’s silk lehenga is referenced from an archival 19th century Rajasthani poshak with embroideries rendered using marodi ka kaam, zardozi and pitta work. It is paired with an illusion tie-up choli and a multihued tulle odhni.
Jewellery: Shrihari Anirudh
Geisha Designs
Shalini Jaikaria and Paras Bairoliya straddle worlds old and new in their bridal creations. “We believe that bridal fashion should respect and draw from cultural heritage, while also embracing contemporary design aesthetics,” say the talented duo behind Geisha Designs. According to them, a Geisha bride is a woman who celebrates being unique. “She embodies a celebration of self, cultural heritage, precision and global experiences,” they share.
Their opulent, beautifully detailed collections, as seen on Sukhmani Gambhir, are inspired by flowers, art, mystique, life and the pride of nature, allow brides to express their unique personalities and stories.
Jewellery: Soni Sapphire
Rimzim Dadu
“We create art that you can wear for years to come” is a promise made by Rimzim Dadu’s creations, one that applies to her bridalwear too. The gifted designer reveals that her vision for bridal fashion are clothes that are classic and can be repurposed, preferably versatile enough to be used as separates. “Bridal fashion needs to become more fun, less serious,” she asserts.
Karmaa Dhingra wears a gold weave lehenga, handcrafted with the traditional technique of weaving using the brand’s signature metallic cords.
Jewellery: Amana Jewels
Dabiri Couture
Divya Kapur and Ambika Jain of Dabiri Couture are inspired by Indian tradition and the contemporary world. “We are committed to crafting exquisite, handcrafted attire that reflects our bride’s unique personality and celebrates her love story,” the skilled twosome claim.
Here, Rhea Jain takes a twirl in a multicolour bead and hand-embroidered lehenga teamed with a satin blouson.
Jewellery: Reja Gems
Varun Bahl
The designer, famous for using floral motifs in his embroidery, has previously said, “I love nature. Flowers in particular are very versatile and I love experimenting with them through appliqué work, handcrafted and 3D embroideries, prints and more.”
Here, Sumaya Dalmia wears a silk brocade lehenga adorned with his statement three-dimensional floral corsages and feathers, paired with a beautifully adorned bralette.
Jewellery: AKM Mehrason
Photos: Raju Raman; Hair and Make-up: Anu Kaushik at Aayna Clinic; Creative Direction and Styling: Amber Tikari; Location Courtesy: Luxaddi, New Delhi
This story has been adapted for the website from a story that was originally published in Hello! India’s November 2023 issue. Get your hands on the latest issue right here!
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