Photographs: Sanjay Sawant
All you bridezillas out there, here's your fashion checklist if you're getting hitched in the next few of months!
So it's finally happening.
After years of dreaming and months of planning, your wedding day is around the corner and nothing short of a hurricane is going to let anything go wrong with it, right?
While you've definitely got your basics sorted if you're getting hitched, we thought we'd provide you with a quick list of all things hot stylewise for this season's trousseaus.
Take a look at your fashion must-haves!
The ethnic jacket
It's been burning up the ramp at all bridal shows this year and it's taken our breath away. The knee-length, ethnic jacket is royal, traditional and sensual at the same time. Sexy how? Because most of them have either a plunging neckline or open up to reveal a hint of navel.
A sleek clutch
Image: A sleek clutchPhotographs: Albert Gea/Reuters
We're not talking about those over-studded, multi-coloured crystal eyesores that are put out year after year!
Please take the classy route and opt for a sleek, tasteful clutch. Bridal outfits tend to be on the opulent side anyway, you simply have to tone them down a tad with the right accessories.
Opt for a design that compliments your outfit and is a stand-alone beauty at the same time. And preferably, your clutch should have a chain strap you can utilise if you're going to be carrying it around all evening. Convenience counts too!
A chic little cocktail dress
Image: A cocktail dress by Naeem KhanPhotographs: Jessica Rinaldi/Reuters
If you're having a Big Fat Indian wedding with the thousand-and-one rituals and receptions involved, chances are you're holding a cocktail party too.
Now, it's plain foolish to wear a heavy, ethnic number to an occasion where you're supposed to let your hair down and have fun. Instead of dragging along in a sari or lehenga all evening, you'll be much better off in a chic little number like most of your guests.
And sure, go for colours and sparkle so that there's no mistaking who the bride's going to be!
Comfortable and dainty bridal shoes
Image: Comfortable and dainty bridal shoesPhotographs: Grace Liang/Reuters
Yes, we understand how those six-inch stilettos, with their delicate heels and subtle sequinned pattern, could rival Cinderella's glass slipper.
But you have to understand that your feet will be reduced to nubs by the time you're through traipsing around in them at your wedding.
If you must have them, okay -- opt for them till the photo-op lasts. Keep a pair of low, comfy heels in reserve for when your legs are about to give up. And hey, low heels can be just as pretty!
Polki jewellery
Image: Polki jewellery by Golecha JewellersPhotographs: Courtesy Tonic
Traditional is where it's at this year.
So give those Harry Winston and Tiffany imitations a skip and go for polki jewellery -- every jeweller worth his salt has highlighted their glassy gorgeousness in bridal sets this season.
In any case, ethnic baubles do go better with ethnic clothing. And don't forget, they offer you more for less -- the uncut diamonds look far larger.
Corset cholis
Image: A corset choli by Manish MalhotraPhotographs: Dominic Xavier
Backless jazz is so done to death!
No, what you need to bring out the look of your lehenga, sari or ghagra is a corset. It will not only flatter your curves, it will also serve to nip and tuck you in the right places to give you the silhouette you desire.
Plus, you can wear it short to show off your flat abs or long, to conceal that slight bulge. You can't lose!
Embroidered elegance
Image: An embroidered outfit by Varun BahlPhotographs: Courtesy Aza
Remember what we said about crystal overkill clutches?
Yeah, it kind of applies to your outfit too. It's been a fad in recent years to get expensive crystals adorn wedding outfits, but we can safely say that's no longer trendy. In fact, quite the opposite is true, mainly because most Indian designers overdo the sparkle so much, the brides end up looking like Christmas ornaments.
This year, catwalk styles show that high-end couturiers have reverted to rich threadwork, embroidery and sequins to make a statement. So make sure the only rocks you've got on are the real thing!
A see-through dupatta
Image: A dupatta and ensemble by Riyaz GangjiPhotographs: Sanjay Sawant
Let it be light and wispy with just a hint of embellishment.
Your dupatta should serve to compliment your outfit, not draw attention away from it or cover it up, else all that remains in focus is swathes of cloth wrapped about you. Instead, a sheer, stylish little piece will work better.
Customary colours
Image: A Krishna Mehta bridalPhotographs: Rajesh Karkera
Please don't select blue or green for your big day!
The emphasis for this year is on customary colours like red, maroon, white, silver, gold and ivory. And there's something to be said of bridal tradition too, isn't there?
If you want to feel like a bride, make sure you conform to at least a few age-old practices -- like this one.
The right bridal lingerie
Image: The right bridal lingeriePhotographs: Boudoir London
And finally, we come to this little but important detail.
What you choose to don in the bedroom is down to personal choice, but do opt for innerwear that goes with your ensemble -- the fit has to be simply perfect.
In other words, a lacey bra worn under a satin blouse is definitely not going to give you a smooth look. And a thong under a sari may feel sexy, but it also feels uncomfortable -- what panty lines are you worried about through nine yards of fabric? It's unnecessary.
Remember, the key is not just breathtakingly pretty, but practical too!
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