 "Latest wedding collections")
ANITA DONGRE
THEME
My collection epitomises the modern Indian woman's sartorial sensibility, which is modern, confident and classic intertwined with her strong values and heritage. Characterised by linear symmetry, and geometric shapes and patterns, this collection echoes the architectural splendour and detailing of the Jantar Mantar.
DESIGN SENSIBILITY
The collection draws inspiration from the free-spirited modern bride who loves to challenge convention, but also values heritage. Lightweight, versatile and comfortable describe the creations perfectly.
WHAT'S TRENDING
The new-age bride has moved away from the conventional colour palette. She is now seeking a blend of functionality and fantasy in her ensemble. The summer bride will look beautiful in flowing, feminine silhouettes in pastel shades such as powder blue, old rose, coral and sunshine yellow. A lehenga paired with a beautifully embroidered bandi or choli spells elegant chic. For a fusion look, she can team the bandeau gown with a contrasting bandi.
SABYASACHI MUKHERJEE
THEME
My collection has been inspired by the 1920s. It's rich with a baroque-like feel. There is also an Oriental influence, reminiscent of life in Burma and Shanghai. Titled 'Opium', the collection recreates memories of opium clubs that used to be very decadent. There is an air of mystery to the designs - of something dark and brooding.
DESIGN SENSIBILITY
'Opium' is different from my previous collections at three levels - colours, silhouettes and embroidery techniques. This season, I have broken away from the bold colour-blocking of blacks and greens, and have used ombre and subtle earthy hues instead. There is palpable fluidity in the layering. Extensive use of shimmer and sultry sequins makes the garments visually decadent.
WHAT'S TRENDING
Monotones and lean, long-stretched silhouettes will be in vogue this season. The keywords are: fluidity, shimmer, champagne and nudes. This summer is going to be about very pale, organic colours - sooty, mushroom, sage, thyme are going to play an important role. I know that citrus, citrine and fluorescent hues are making an aggressive comeback, but I would give them a pass.
TARUN TAHILIANI
THEME
The Tarun Tahiliani wedding collection draws inspiration from the opulence of Indian textile, powerful embroidery and rich craftsmanship in all its grandeur and sensuality. Whimsical motifs and sensational hues in red, gold and pastels call out to the rich heritage of our past with the renewed energy of revivalist craft and contemporary construction.
DESIGN SENSIBILITY
New styles find expression in lightness of form, playfulness and whimsy. The collection moves away from bling and bauble of royal India to an effervescence that brings finesse to the structures and silhouettes. Glimpses of shimmering gold, hues of soft pastels and a whimsical frothiness are reminiscent of an era of charm, elegance and flirtatiousness.
WHAT'S TRENDING
Wedding wear is all about individual taste. Comfort is very important, especially if you're going to be in an outfit for hours. Each bride and groom is unique, and it's their individual personality that should be reflected in whatever they choose to wear.
JJ VALAYA
THEME
Our latest collection, 'The Maharaja of Madrid', projects an amalgamation of Spanish and Indian influences and is now being introduced in its summer avatar. The collection, instead of dwelling upon the rather obvious visual connects of Spain, delves into seemingly contradictory juxtapositions to come out with a unique look focused on some of the finest couture statements of the season.
DESIGN SENSIBILITY
Every brand has a unique signature, ours is inspired by monarchy and nomads - two divergent elements that work beautifully for us.
WHAT'S TRENDING
It's very important to have an individual sense of style; and on the wedding day, one must wear what suits oneself. However, never be scared of experimenting, albeit in a sophisticated manner. Wear something that make you look great and balance it with the right accessories. The art, in fact, is in balance and control, not in excess.
RAGHAVENDRA RATHORE
THEME
I have taken the traditional, classical style and created a collection for a segment that finds old world dressing mesmerising. The creations have been inspired by the flawless style of the Raj gharanas; we have brought in bright hues from the princely states into modern wardrobes.
DESIGN SENSIBILITY
The old-world ethos has been redefined with the use of embellishments such as sparkling gold and silver gota pattis, dabka and zari. The idea was to create a simple, yet empowering look, for the bride-to-be. Men's wear is leaning towards the traditional with sherwanis, bandhgalas, Nehru-style jackets to be worn over kurtas et cetera. Embroidered waistcoats with Jodhpuri pants, jackets embellished with bundies and bandhgala jackets in vibrant hues create a different, yet classic look.
WHAT'S TRENDING
Luxurious silks, brocades, chiffons and velvets are the flavour of the season, while hues like fuchsia, midnight blue, wine, saffron, gold and silver are extremely popular. Also in vogue is lean and figure-hugging clothing with fine use of embellishment to give a western look to the modern Indian silhouette.
A BIT OF PAKISTAN IN YOUR TROUSSEAU
Bridal collections from across the border have created quite a buzz in India in the last couple of years. Known for their intricate thread work and youthful collections, designers like Hassan Sheheryar Yasin and Sara Shahid have put Pakistan on the international fashion map. Now Indian brides can get a glimpse of embroidered jacquards and fluid silhouettes as the Pakistan Fashion Design Council has started an exclusive multi-label retail store in Delhi. Franchised by Bindra Ventures' Rubaaiyat, the store will feature designs that carry a whiff of Pakistan's rich textile heritage. One must check out Yasin's Wedding Couture Collection that offers antique embroidery work, mukesh work and zardozi in the designs.
