South Asian Bridal Wear Inheriting Couture Style

As a wedding planner – I always have to pay attention to bridal trends and keeping up with the newest styles in Bridal Fashion.

SOMETHING THAT HAS RECENTLY REALLY IMPRESSED ME IS THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE “SARI” OR “LENGHA” INTO A ONE PIECE GOWN.

Now this isn’t just any traditional white gown like we’ve seen our European neighbours wear. These gowns are “blinged” out with crystals and jewels stitched on to the finest fabrics. I would say I saw this trend coming about five years ago, when I got married. I wore a mermaid style lengha, two piece, but tried to make it appear as one. Proud to say I saw this fashion start up from Pakistan, as designers took our tops and stretched them to hang off of our ankles – bringing back the “anarkali.” Eventually, they dragged on the floor, developed trails and had the most intricate thread and needle work.

IN THE AGE WHERE WEARING COUTURE COMES WITH A HEFTY PRICE TAG, WHY NOT TRULY GET THE PERFECT BANG FOR OUR BUCK AND SPORT OUR WEDDING DRESS ON MORE THAN ONE OCCASION?

Brides started to adapt the style as we saw Bollywood really take it up a notch with their blatantly over the top dance numbers. We observed stars like Kareena Kapoor and Katrina Kaif bless the red carpets with long “flowy” dresses that were embellished with some of the most luxurious embroidery and bead work. 

For anyone with a modern theme to their reception, this kind of look works almost perfectly as there is nothing more contemporary than an elegant gown to pull everything together. If you actually consider this option for your own wedding, the one piece is also practical. Not only is it easier to carry than the traditional sari or lengha, but often at times it can also be more cost effective.

I would like to see more “DULHANS” adapt the gown as their choice of wear for their receptions. For heaven’s sake – it’s unquestionably easier to dance and maneuver in. And it can easily be converted into evening wear appropriate for any dressy function.

Future brides – take note! You have more selections than just a mermaid style “lengha” or “resham sari.” Do your research and choose something that works for you! Consider stepping outside the box and exercising this trend as you are supposed to look and feel like a princess. And we all know a princess truly can’t be a real princess without her ball gown!