Recently, Forbes reported that South Asia’s bridal fashion market is approximately worth $100 billion, out of which $40 billion goes into the investments in diamond and gold jewellery. Given that the super-rich spend hundreds of thousands on designer clothing, and are willing to spend much more for rare and unique creations, gives the fashion industry the tough job to constantly innovate and churn fascinating outfits for brides-to-be all across India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan. And a single bridal attire in itself is a complex culmination of centuries of traditions amalgamated with techniques and craftsmanship of ever evolving nature, teamed with the social peacock mentality and the fierce competition. We look at some of the most trending elements to consider before choosing a wedding outfit and further completing it with the right accessories that are sure to make heads turn.
Traditional is the new modern
The newer crop of millennial brides have been seen going back to their roots and opting for bridal wear separates and jewellery that best reflects their traditions. Amrapali, a globally renowned heritage jewellery brand revealed that their Kundalavellai style of jewellery is being most revisited by brides-to-be for their wedding day and trousseau. These pieces are exquisitely created in a closed set 22 carat gold, decorated with rubies and accents of emeralds. Brides are also opting for family heirlooms or new pieces crafted keeping the integrity of the design and the craft. We’ve also spotted a similar growing trend in the bridal fashion where homegrown craftsmanship is seeing an increasing demand such as Benarasi and brocade lehengas and saris.
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Statement Bridal Chokers
The variety of bridal chokers available by some of the top jewelers in the region, have something for everybody. Weather you’re moved by diamonds or kundan, silver or gold, a fitted necklace is ideal to create a statement with beautiful layers.
Starry Muted Colours
From actress Anushka Sharma’s blush pink Sabyasachi lehenga to Sagarita Ghatge’s muted grey Falguni and Shane Peacock bridal number indicate how modern brides are picking up global influences and moving ahead of the “sindoori” red to incorporate into their once-in-a-lifetime bridal attire. Get ready to see a gorgeous palette of nudes, pewter grey, powder blue, ivory, lavender, and salmon pink, instead of just the traditional reds and maroons.
Gold Fingers
Inspired by the traditional art of gold weaving or Zardosi, more Asian brides are picking up on the unique henna designs in silver, gold with added artwork of glitter and gem decorations.
The “Love Story” Lehenga
When Indian designer Kresha Bajaj took on the mammoth task of stitching her love story on to her bridal lehenga in 2016, she didn’t realise that she was setting in motion the next big Indian wedding trend for the year. Last year, she went on to design one for her friend and popular Indian actress, Samantha Prabhu, where each major moment of her love story was stitched and narrated through every twirl and movement of the dress, taking the term “personalized” up a notch.
