Luxemi’s Destination Wedding Dress Up Guide

Image: The Wedding Guide

Mega watt Indian destination weddings are the best kind. And while any reason to pack our bags and get away is a good one, one that involves our closest friends, Bollywood moves, fabulous traditional wear and copious amount of champagne is a sure winner! After bringing you the ultimate destination wedding packing guide, we just had to give you a destination wedding dressing 101 too. After all, what you’ll wear to a beach wedding will be infinitely different from what a palace wedding demands. Our guide is here to lay all your burning questions to rest!

Destination: Udaipur, Rajasthan

Nothing but a royal look will do for a wedding in India’s palace capital. Always wanted your very own princess moment? Here’s the perfect opportunity! And if you’ve been complaining about all your beloved lehengas gathering dust, then what are you waiting for? Pack them all without further ado! We suggest a nod to traditional prints and fabrics like gota patti and brocade, topped off with polki jewelry.

Luxemi Pick: Scarlet and Purple Lehenga with Gota Work by Laila Motwane

Destination: Miami, Florida

Image: Maharani Weddings

If only attending the pheras in Aztec bikinis and flip-flops was allowed! But since you can’t, bring out your breeziest Indian wear instead. We’re placing our bets on white and ivory picks — serene hues to complement sunset nuptials on the beach! Steer clear of saris and OTT anarkalis. Lightweight salwars in breathable fabrics or traditional maxis are your best bet. Throw in some floral jewelry to the mix for a dash of easy chic fun!

Luxemi Pick: White and Silver Gota Angrakha Salwar

Destination: Chantilly, France

A beautiful ceremony in South of France promises an abundance of grace and elegance with a touch of old-world glamour. Time to bring your poised best to the sartorial field. And nothing like a restrained lace or lightly sequined sari in a blush tone and diamond jewels to do the trick.

Luxemi Pick: Net Saree with Buttas and Sequins

Destination: Dubai, UAE

Image: Christophe Photos

When in Duabi, think an OTT, colourful and culture-soaked affair. We suggest going the extra mile and giving a nod to Middle-Eastern glamour with your wardrobe. An intricate sari or salwar with ornate gold baubles and smokey eye make-up is the order of the day indeed!

Luxemi Pick: Gold Sequinned Saree

 What are your go-to destination wedding outfits? Tell us in the comment box below! 

Style File: Aditi Rao Hydari

Image credit: Verve

Unadulterated grace and dollops of élan pretty much defines Bollywood’s pretty young thing, Aditi Rao Hydari, and we are talking much more than just her personal style. Often seen in pastels and flowing silhouettes, Ms. Hyadri does girly to a T, without ever going over the top. Pretty, perfect and oh-so-poised, it’s no surprise that she’s also a trained Bharatnatyam dancer! And did we mention that this natural head turner comes from a long line of royal lineage? Some girls really do have it all! We decided to decode her style quotient…pay close attention!

Blue Blooded indeed

While she does work the whole girl-next-door charm, no one can deny that fairytale princess cuts and soft feminine drapes complement her like no other. Whether it’s a Jade by Monica & Karishma gown or blush pink maxi from Rabani & Rakha, she pulls off everything sweet and sheer with effortless ease. Hello modern day princess!

Luxemi Pick: Bask in your own princess moment with our Georgette Saree with Beaded Waves sari.

Color Story

Diwali parties or wedding receptions, Aditi’s Indian looks also get our vote of approval. Not one to go overboard with shimmer and shine, she prefers bold colors, simple silhouettes and stunning jewelry to make a point. Her appearance in an emerald green raw silk lehenga by Gaurang Shah had us swooning!

Luxemi Pick: Let the color do all the talking at the next wedding do you attend with this Emerald Chiffon Saree with Mukesh Detailing.

Loyal Muse

L to R: Manish Malhotra and Anita Dongre

Aditi has her favorites in place when it comes to her designer picks. Seen wearing Bollywood’s blue-eyed haute couturier Manish Malhotra on many occasions, she leans towards his no-fuss options rather than blingy signatures. Anita Dongre’s ethnic and Indo-western wear is also a constant in her wardrobe.

Luxemi Pick: Read Anita Dongre’s exclusive trousseau shopping guide for Luxemi here.

B for bold

Like we said, Aditi does like to change it up ever so often. The pretty performer switches from dainty belle to sexy siren without batting an eyelid! She’s a fan of Gaurav Gupta and his avant-garde cuts and she doesn’t shy away from a bare back or décolletage on display either. Take a cue from her and keep the accessories minimal and make-up flawless when sporting a bold number.

Luxemi Pick: Summer weddings are the perfect time to experiment with bold blouses and our Dark Silver Stretch Satin Halter Blouse By Kavita Bhartia is just what you need!

What do you think of Aditi’s style? Tell us in the comment box below! 

For more on Bollywood style icons, read our style files on Deepika Padukone, Jacqueline Fernandez, Kangana Ranaut, Kalki, Katrina Kaif, Neha Dhupia, Malaika Arora Khan, Shraddha Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. 

Celeb Inspiration: 3 Summer Wedding Hairstyles

Image: Vogue India

The sun is up and the wedding season is upon us — which means only one thing…you need to bring you’re A-game to the shaadi-scape. Your outfits and jewelry may be in place but don’t overlook another important aspect — your hair. It can make or break the look, after all. As the temperatures rise, ditch your poker straight hair for three alternative fun looks that we spotted on our favorite Bollywood stylistas. You’ll be basking in the sun (and compliments) in no time!

Sonam Kapoor’s Fishtail Braid: For the outdoor sangeet

A perennial favorite, this one is made to one side for a softer feel. Pair it with a lehenga, sharara or floor length anarkali, it will work like a charm every single time! 

• Go get a comb and clear elastic hairband.
• Remove all tangles and put your mane behind your shoulders.
• Divide it into two sections from top to bottom. Don’t forget that this whole braid is to the side, so position it accordingly.
• Take a small piece of hair from the outside of one of the two main sections and bring it to the inside of the opposite section.
• Now make the exact same cross but this time on the opposite side.  Don’t forget to keep the crosses tight.
• Keep doing the same from each side into the inside of each section, until you see an inverted braiding pattern develop.
• Finish the plait by tying it with a clear elastic hairband.
• Remember that this looks best with a slept-in texture, so pull out a few strands for a slightly messy look.

Alia Bhatt’s Messy Chignon: For an effortlessly chic vibe

Universally chic, this fashion girl go-to is the perfect pick to highlight your statement earrings!

• Get yourself some bobby pins, a tail comb, hairspray and an elastic hairband.
• Give your hair a slight bouffant by pulling out the front layers for a smooth and voluminous effect.
• Tie your hair in a low pony resting at the nape.
• Roll the pony in an anti clockwise and keep coiling it. Don’t use too much force as we are aiming for a messy structure.
• Finally, twist it into a standard bun at the desired height. Pin it with bobby pins that discreetly slip in. Pull out a few hair strands and loosen it for a disheveled look. Remember that the whole idea is to avoid a prim and proper vibe.
• Add light hairspray to keep your bun in place.
• This style works best on hair that hasn’t been washed for a day. Alternatively you can use texturizing hair spray or leave the hair be untouched before styling.

Deepika Padukone’s Bohemian Pouf: For the modern-day princess

Mod is in vogue and this sexy bohemian pouf is the ideal way to pay ode to the decade. Don’t forget to throw on a headpiece when sporting this look!

• Grab the usual suspects: hair spray, bobby pins, rattail comb, and rollers.
• Part your hair and backcomb/tease the entire front section it to give a nice lift. Be sure that none of the hair falls on your face and is neatly tucked back, framing your face.
• Secure your bouffant using pins and set it with hairspray.
• Turn your attention to the bottom half now. Start separating the hair into different sections and curl them in with a hot curling iron rod. You can also do this with rollers before creating the pouf.
• Add some hair spray before securing the headpiece. Voila! You are ready to dance all night long!

Which hairstyle would you rather sport? Tell us in the comment box below! 

Malaika Arora Khan’s Top 5 Desi Looks

The Chaiyan Chaiyan girl, Malaika Arora Khan, has been stealing hearts since the 90’s, and after several years in the industry she wears many (stylish) hats apart from just model, muse and former VJ — she’s also a successful fashion entrepreneur, fitness inspiration, and if it isn’t obvious, Bollywood’s hottest mom!!

While sexy numbers that flaunt her svelte and enviable frame are her perennial favorites, she does give desi ensembles a go every now and then too! And her new stylist, Maneka Harisinghani is pulling all the stops to allow this siren to show us her sophisticated and subtle side. So make no mistake — while Mrs. Khan can rock the hell out of that bodycon dress, she sure knows how to look like a million bucks in the classic six-yards as well. We round up her top traditional looks for some wedding-season inspiration.

Go for Gold

This all lace Vikram Phadnis sari paired with a sleeveless blouse is a sure winner in our books. It’s feminine and flirty while oozing unabashed glamour. It helps that head-to-toe gold is a trend du jour as well. A winning look for your bestie’s destination wedding, isn’t it?

Luxemi Pick: Get your dose of old-world charm with Luxemi’s gold sequinned sari. Don’t forget to opt for burgundy or wine lips to take this look a notch higher.

Fresh as a Daisy

The diva is known to be partial to deeper tones, which is why we were pleasantly surprised to see her in this cheery summer-ready lehenga by Seema Khan for her sis-in-law Arpita Khan’s wedding. Not only does the bright color take some years off, it’s perfect for a mehendi too!

Luxemi Pick: You too can make everyone green with envy in our Lime Green Gota Work sari. Jhumkis are all this look needs!

More Wine Please!

Now, we all know that marsala is the color of the year, what with Pantone’s endorsement and celebrity approvals! Malaika, too, was quick to jump onto the bandwagon with this regal Manish Malhotra creation. The floor length anarkali accentuates her hourglass figure beautifully and adds height as well.

Luxemi Pick: Luxemi’s wine salwar with embroidery promises a similar look. Wear it a la Malaika i.e. by simply adding statement earrings!

Black Beauty

Black is always fashionable and Mrs. Khan sports the timeless color in all its classic glory in this Shantanu and Nikhil draped sari. From a cocktail party to a reception, this versatile number will always be on point!

Luxemi Pick: Take a leaf out of the style diva’s book and wear this charming crinkled georgette sari in an offbeat drape, spruced with kundan jewelry.

Pastel Perfection

Bollywood’s sworn hottie channeled her inner mermaid while looking pretty as a picture in this Sonaakshi Raaj sari gown with just the right pop of pink via her lips. The blouse with its mesh detailing and unforgiving color is not an easy one to sport, giving us yet another reason to love her impeccable style!

Luxemi Pick: Feel the aqua rush in this sari with mirror work by Satya Paul available on Luxemi. Wear it with statement earrings and a maang tikka for the next summer wedding you attend!

What do you think of Malaika Arora Khan’s style? Tell us in the comment box below!  

For more on Bollywood style icons, read our style files on Deepika Padukone, Jacqueline Fernandez, Kangana Ranaut, Kalki, Katrina Kaif, Neha Dhupia and Alia Bhatt.

The New-Age Lehenga

There’s a new lehenga in town and it’s one you are going to love! Gone are the days when we gals had to lug around heavy crystal encrusted lehengas that weighed a ton. As Indian fashion becomes increasingly concerned with comfort, an easy flowing maxi skirt coupled with a trendy crop top has quickly emerged as the lehenga’s present-day counterpart. For those of you who love to mix and match, get ready to celebrate because this cool new go-to is all about versatility and fun. With Sabyasachi on board as evidenced by this Lakme Fashion Week Spring-Summer ’15 collection, it’s safe to say that this combination is here to stay. We snooped and rounded up the best of the trend. Twirling was never simpler, just leave those dupattas behind…or maybe not!

Anushree Reddy: Aqua Splash

Known for her fresh color palette and penchant for all things girly, Anushree Reddy’s LFW showcase had blockbuster songstress Kanika Kapoor looking pretty as a picture in her mint skirt and floral crop top with cut outs! The knot detailing on the skirt really uplifts this look.

Payal Singhal: Shimmer and Shine

Payal Singhal’s AIFW AW ’15 showcase married vintage French romance with easy silhouettes. This cream net skirt paired with a Chantilly lace crop top can easily transition from day to night with the right accessories. Extra props for the bare shoulders and pastel hue!

Arpita Mehta: Bohemian Belle

The wild child within will rejoice at the sight of this colourful gypset chic look. Fun and flirty, the punch of color complements the dull gold beautifully. We suggest wearing this skirt and boxy crop top for an upcoming mehendi function.

Sabyasachi: Vintage Swag

Sabyasachi’s ’70s-inspired stripped crops with full floral skirts are the season’s talking point. Effortless sexy and oh-so-stylish, this pairing (the tiger belt included!) went on our wishlist the minute we laid eyes on it. The designer, it seems, can do no wrong.

Kavita Bhartia: Pretty as a Picture

Preppy with a feminine desi twist just about sums up this Kavita Bhartia number. Soft fabrics and signature appliqué hand embroidery makes this outfit decidedly pretty. The mixing of textures seals its fate as a winning head turner.

Babita Malkani: Out of the Box

Dare to bare? Then this showstopper outfit from Babita Malkani’s LFW collection makes for an interesting choice. That crop top really does have our heart. Toned arms and oodles of confidence are a must for this one!

Anju Modi: Princess Diaries

Anju Modi had a more youthful approach this time with a fantasy-inspired collection that exuded decadence and luxury. This blazer paired with a sheer shirt and panel skirt is fit for a modern-day princess. It helps that neo jackets are the season’s au courant must-have.

Shruti Sancheti: Quirk It Up

Mainstream is so boring and this boho-chic offering is the perfect antidote. This well-constructed cap sleeved bohemian crop with its ombre silk skirt has gypset fashionista written all over it. We recommend a fishtail braid and minimal accessories with this one.

Will you jump on this bandwagon? Tell us in the comment box below!

Luxemi Talks to Designer Anushree Reddy

 

Think vintage charm, flower power, feminine frills and pretty perfection and designer Anushree Reddy instantly comes to mind. The newest ‘IT’ designer, known for her use of vivid colors, attention to detailing, and princess-like Indian wear, has quickly soared through the popularity charts and is definitely on top.

From an avid shopper to a sought-after designer, Anushree has come a long way indeed. Fashion designing, it turns out, wasn’t this Hyderabad native’s Plan A. Armed with a degree from the London School of Economics, she was happy just filling her closet with beautiful designer wear, until her stint as a fashion editor with a Hyderabad-based lifestyle magazine made her rethink her career path. Hence the self-taught designer’s label took shape in 2010, she made her Lakme Fashion Week debut in 2013, and the rest, as they say, is history!

Your SS ’15 collection is all about candy colours and feminine frills. Tell us about your inspiration for the same. 

For ‘The Royal Courtyard’, I took inspiration from the home of Nizams, where ethereal begums redefined grandeur. Each design from this collection is soaked in nostalgia and each piece holds a piece of history within it. Prints, of course, featured prominently and I brought zardozi embellishments to the fore, as it is part and parcel of being a Hyderabadi! Traditional yet contemporary and royal, this collection has an overall Nizami influence and has been created by the most skilled karigars from the city.

Who is the quintessential Anushree Reddy woman?

She is someone who is independent, fun and willing to break away from monotony and try something fun like printed lehengas with quirky embellished blouses! She is someone who favours minimal styling — a great pair of earrings is all she needs! Envision someone who swears by vintage updos and fishtail braids. All in all, she is a girl someone who is always heading out to make a statement!

Tell us a bit about your personal style.

My look is subtle and understated with a nod to comfort. My favourite designer is Anamika Khanna, I recently picked up a dhoti saree from her for a wedding and am absolutely in love with it! And of course, there is nothing like a Chanel bag, it’s such a trans-seasonal classic piece.

What are the top Indian wear must-haves this summer?

A crop top and high-waisted skirt is all you need for an Indian summer wedding!

What would you suggest one wear to a:

Mehendi: Dhoti pants and a kurta in shades of yellow and green.

Sangeet: A gold or champagne colored outfit, be it a lehenga or sari. The fabric itself should be self shimmer. This makes for a fun yet elegant look.

Reception: Go all red-carpet ready in a glamorous gown or a chic sari.

Cocktail party: A pastel sequinned gown should do the trick.

Who are your favourite celebrity stylistas and why? 

Deepika Padukone has always been my favorite. I have really started to warm up to Kangana Ranaut’s style and I would love to see Aishwarya Rai Bachan in my label.

A piece of style advise that never fails?

Always dress according to your body type!

 What do you think of Anushree Reddy’s creations? Tell us in the comment box below! 

Praachi Raniwala for Luxemi 

Our Favorite Indian Looks from Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015

Image: Sabyasachi Mukherjee

While fashion week season draws to a close internationally, the Indian fashion fraternity gets its gears in motion around March. As soon as summer hits the city, the best of the best come out to play at India’s beloved Lakmé Fashion Week. This season, which marked 15 years of the event, was no different. All of B-town and the who’s who of fashion insiders were seen soaking up the sartorial excellence displayed at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 (read: 17^th – 22nd March).

Obviously, we kept our sights glued to the runway to get our daily dose of wow. Gaurang Shah, Payal Singhal, SVA by Sonam and Paras Modi, Sabyasachi, Manish Malhotra, Anushree Reddy and Suneet Varma were among some of our favorite shows. After the curtain fell on Anamika Khanna’s brilliant grand finale on Sunday, we got down to the business of decoding the best desi looks from the fabulous week (yes, you can thank us later!). Here goes…

Best Sarees

Shivan and Narresh

Resort wear kings, Shivan and Narresh’s famous saree-kini made an appearance in this collection too, only this time, the colour inspiration came from French artist Henri Rousseau’s botanical paintings.

L to R: Payal Singhal and SVA

Payal Singhal‘s royal golden drapes with a touch of pastels sure made our hearts stop and Sva’s selection of sarees (the entire collection was inspired by Istanbul) were teamed with chic peplum blouses. Sabyasachi’s collection was a throwback to the ’70s and he went the retro route with his saris.

L to R: Sabyasachi and SVA

Gaurang Shah‘s sarees took a page from Hindu mythology depicting the marvels of nature on his prints and Anavila‘s contemporary take on the traditional saree was displayed on a range of interesting fabrics.

L to R: Gaurang Shah and Anavila

The clean, white Mulmul collection curated by Harper’s Bazaar boasted of sleek pieces in soft feminine silhouettes, enhanced with glass and various houndstooth patterns. Kiran Uttam Ghosh made a comeback with her signature pleats and flowing silhouettes.

L to R: Kiran Uttam Gosh and Anand Bhushan (Mulmul)

As always, one can trust Anamika Khanna to give the sari contemporary relevance. This time, she did it by teaming the drape with pants.

Anamika Khanna

Best Lehengas

L to R: Anushree Reddy and Payal Singhal

If you have a summer wedding to attend this year, get excited, because Anushree Reddy and Payal Singhal have you covered! The former’s collection was feminine fervour at its best — replete with lots of florals, candy colours and free-flowing silhouettes. Singhal, on the other hand, focused on fuss-free and flirty lehengas, perfect for those who run away from an overdose of bling.

L to R: Patine and Arpita Mehta

Patine brought back the ease and allure of the 1970s with the blend of Victorian lace and Indian embroidery while Arpita Mehta‘s collection was truly ‘A Royal Summer Affair’ with an overload of bright, feminine shades.

Suneet Varma

Suneet Varma‘s lehengas were luxury personified, displaying an indulgence of precious finery.

Manish Malhotra

Bollywood sweetheart Manish Malhotra sent out his ‘Blue’ collection down the runway, which left everyone feeling anything but! The intricate floral lehengas came with an interesting twist – off shoulder blouses, fringe detailing and embroidered jackets — what’s not to love?

Best Salwars

L to R: Ridhi Mehra and Anamika Khanna

Ridhi Mehra’s soft romantic shades and oriental craftsmanship from the Mughal era added extra pizzazz to her salwars. We loved the dhoti salwars paired with crop tops and sheer capes! The draped salwars at Anamika Khanna in neutrals like ivory and gunmetal made a huge statement without trying too hard.

L to R: Payal Singhal and Divya Sheth

Divya Sheth displayed flower power with a hint of rustic elegance (flowy jacket-style kurtas for the win!) whereas Payal Singhal impressed us with her innovative salwars that came with slits in ethnic and tribal prints.

L to R: Divya Sheth and Surendri

Arpita Mehta and Surendri sent out fun, flirty salwars in net. The former veered more towards bubbly and youthful shades, while the latter flaunted vibrant hues and prints inspired by the parrot.

Arpita Mehta

Best Bridalwear

L to R: Manish Malhotra and Suneet Varma

Suneet Varma’s collection was aimed at the bride who wishes to shine bright like a diamond. His use of bold hues like red and royal blue with a touch of metallic and mirror-work quickly made it to the top of our lust list.

Suneet Varma

Manish Malhotra displayed a variety of silhouettes – from asymmetrical hemlines to high-low blouses and offbeat blouses – apt for all those pre-wedding functions.

L to R: Sabyasachi and Soumitra Mondal

Sabyasachi brought back Disco fever for the upbeat, new-age bride with a generous helping of sequins while Soumitra Mondal presented a contemporary yet royal look, blending tradition and heritage with modern styles.

Best blouses

Manish Malhotra

The fringe blouses by Manish Malhotra were undisputed winners and right on trend too.

L to R: Frou Frou and Mandira Bedi

Mandira Bedi’s choli blouses in vibrant colours were the picture of unabashed sexiness. Frou Frou’s subtle, powdery hued blouses came with interesting sleeves while Arpita Mehta unleashed her cape style blouses in delicate, sheer fabrics. And finally, Anamika Khanna closed the week with her intricately embroidered, stunning blouses in varied necklines teamed with signature jackets, officially getting us in the mood for summer!

L to R: Anamika Khanna and Arpita Mehta

Which trends are you planning to try this season? Tell us in the comment box below!

Style File: Neha Dhupia

Her acting chops and stunning face aside, Neha Dhupia is also a bona fide fashionista. The former Miss India Universe likes to keep it simple and her taste veers towards minimalistic sophistication. In fact, word around town is that the actress has a penchant for shopping in the men’s section and prefers to think beyond denim when it comes to her wardrobe choices.

There is no doubt that this former beauty queen with an inclination for unconventional ensembles always gets it right. While her western looks are truly winning, what we can’t keep our eyes off is the diva’s desi repertoire. Neha has garnered the fashion clique’s approval with her easy-going, laid back and refreshing Indian looks and we are definitely part of that bandwagon! We break down the best of the best for you…

Draped in Decadence

One thing’s for sure: Neha loves playing with silhouettes. Whether it’s Nupur Kanoi, Shantanu & Nikhil or Anamika Khanna, her fondness for layers of delicate fabrics and offbeat drapes is quite evident. Take a cue from her and experiment with drapes to truly stand out at the next wedding soiree you attend!

Luxemi Pick: Our White and Silver Gota Angrakha Salwar will help you add a touch of elegant drapes to your own wardrobe.

New Kids on the Block

The who’s who of Bollywood has given their nod to the talented newbies making waves in Indian fashion, Neha notwithstanding. The stylish lass is often spotted donning looks by various upcoming designers like Payal Khandwala, Taika by Poonam Bhagat, Swati Vijaivargie, Myoho, and Frou Frou, to name a few. Of course, the actress’ flair for fashion makes each outfit look even better!

Earthy Undertones

Ms. Dhupia is a sucker for simplicity – understated elegance is what she stands by and we totally get why. Minimal prints, earthy color palettes, traditional weaves and clean shapes are her favorite as seen in the outfits she has worn by Akaaro, Ritu Kumar, Raw Mango by Sanjay Garg, and Abraham & Thakore.

Luxemi Pick: If you’re a fan of Neha’s style, our Black and Gold Benares Print Lehenga by Mallika Mathur will be right up your alley.

Poster Girl

Although she likes to play around and sport different designers, Neha clearly has a soft spot for Payal Singhal. We’ve seen the actress carrying off the designer’s works in bright colours and intricate work with effortless panache. Our only question? When can we raid her closet.

What do you think of Neha Dhupia’s Indian style? Tell us in the comment box below! 

For more on Bollywood style icons, read our style files on Katrina Kaif, Jacqueline Fernandez, Kangana Ranaut, Kalki, Anushka Sharma, Sonakshi Sinha, Sonam Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt.

 

Shaadi Chic: Bollywood’s Most Fashionable Brides

Long gone are the days when our prime source of bridal inspiration were wedding flicks and onscreen Bollywood brides. With edgy couture and tasteful, traditional ensembles, these tinseltown brides have substantially upped their off-screen game and we sure aren’t complaining. From Swarovski detailing and minimal make-up to singular statement pieces, these Bollywood brides know exactly what they’re doing. We round up our favourite real-life Bollywood brides who aced the wedding chic look effortlessly. Take note, brides-to-be!

Princess Diairies: Soha Ali Khan

L to R: Mehendi, wedding and reception

As one can expect from royalty, Soha Ali Khan’s wedding to long-time partner Kunal Khemu was all about subtle sophistication. Choosing simple yet striking over over-the-top and ostentatious, Soha’s ensembles hit the sartorial bull’s eye. From the pink and gold Ritu Kumar kurta that she paired with a churidaar and a crushed skirt and standout chaand baalis for her mehendi to the gorgeous fuchsia Sanjay Garg lehenga she sported to the reception, the royal certainly dazzled. But it was the gold-dusted Sabyasachi lehenga that she wore for her big day that made us swoon—extra props for skipping bridal red. Topped off with minimal make-up and accentuated by heavy, traditional jewelry, the actress looked every bit the nawabi princess that she is.

 

Steal her style: Pink Anarkali with Gota Work by Nikasha, Gold Sequined Saree and Red and Gold Brocade Lehenga with Fuchsia Dupatta by Mallika Mathur.

Beauty to behold: Dia Mirza

L to R: Mehendi, sangeet, wedding and reception

Dia Mirza’s wedding to beau Sahil Sangha was nothing short of a fairy tale. The wedding saw the gorgeous actress dazzle in elegant and feminine silhouettes that complemented her petite frame. She donned a rich marigold and purple Ritu Kumar chanderi anarkali for her mehendi and a whimsical gotta pati Anita Dongre lehenga for her sangeet– both the outfits were paired with soft, romantic hairdos. Being a true-blue Hyderabadi, we weren’t surprised that her wedding outfit, a Ritu Kumar sharara, paid homage to her hometown. Gold and green, spruced with rich traditional craftsmanship, the Awadhi style ensemble was reminiscent of stately old-world glamour. Giving her traditional repertorire a modern break was a peach and cream Shantanu and Nikhil lehenga that she wore for her reception with a contrasting diamond and emerald set.

Steal her style: Mango Chiffon Saree with Mukesh Work and Raw Silk Contrast Border

Glam Goddess: Shilpa Shetty

L to R: Wedding and reception

Unless you were buried under a rock, you know that one of the biggest things to happen in 2009 was Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra’s big fat Indian wedding! More is more was the motto as Shilpa wore a glittering, luscious red Mangalorean-style Tarun Tahiliani saree accentuated by a bevy of Swarovski crystals and reportedly priced at Rs. 50 lakh ($83,000!). Completing the bling fest was her majestic (and ample, might we add) kundan jewelry. For her reception, the actress chose to flaunt her curves in a signature gold sari gown by Tahiliani and Anmol Jewellers baubles.

Steal her style: Gold Cutwork and Crystal Mukesh Saree and Lehenga Saree with Thread Work

Desi Diva: Esha Deol

L to R: Mehendi, sangeet, wedding and reception

Esha Deol’s vibrant, bright and pretty functions were exactly what monsoon weddings in Mumbai ought to look like. Delicious summer shades set the tone for her repertoire as the bride wore Rocky S for her main functions—an orange, Swarovski-studded lehenga for the sangeet and a shimmering pale pink one for the reception. Neeta Lulla was entrusted with the wardrobe for the other two functions—she put together an ornate tangerine and green lehenga for the mehendi and a show-stealing red and gold bridal lehenga made by fusing three heavy Kanjeevaram sarees for the pheras. The former actress topped off her traditional garb with South Indian temple jewelry.

 

Steal her style: Red and Gold Bridal Saree and Peach and Pink Ombré Bollywood Saree with Sequins.

Simple Sophistication: Kalki Koechlin

L to R: Wedding and party

Kalki was the epitome of ‘elegance in simplicity’ at her wedding with director Anurag Kashyap (the two have separated since then). The dainty actress wore a traditional South Indian white and red Kanjeevaram saree for the wedding ceremony and turned to Laila Motwane for her post-wedding party outfit—an eye-catching mango and fuchsia lehenga that was equal parts fun, feminine and fuss-free!

Steal her style: Pearl Embellished Statement Saree and Scarlet and Purple Lehenga with Gota Work by Laila Motwane

Which actresses bridal style do you dig most? Tell us in the comment box below!

Luxemi Talks To Jewelry Designer Mrinalini Chandra

Lisa Haydon wearing a Mrinalini Chandra necklace for Vogue India

Jewelry designer Mrinalini Chandra — one of the most coveted names in the industry today — clearly has an affinity for all things whimsical. She has, after all, turned chairs into bejewelled adornments and fishes into ornamental shawls. With ‘endless love, laughter and happily ever after’ as her mantra, Chandra has taken it upon herself to give fashion jewelry a couture update with dollops of handcrafted finesse. Her pieces are a perfect marriage of complementary contradictions — old-school yet modern, vintage yet eclectic, trendy yet timeless. What’s more, her army of patrons include the who’s who of fashion favourites like Sonam Kapoor, Esha Gupta, Asin, Jacqueline Fernandez, Kalki Koechlin, Karisma Kapoor, Parineeti Chopra and more.

Tell us about your foray into jewellery design and about the launch of the brand.

Like many young girls, accessories always held a special place in my wardrobe but it was only much later that I realized that it was my professional calling. The more time I spent learning about the delicate nature of jewelry during college (editor’s note: she received her masters from the Creative Academy, Milan and Fashion and Lifestyle Accessory Design degree from NIFT, New Delhi), its profound relationship with the wearer drew me to explore this particular art form further. I honed my skills at Tanishq and Mont Blanc before officially launching my label at Lakme Summer Resort 2014.

Mrinalini Chandra at LFW SR 2014

Your brand is well known for giving the Indian aesthetic a modern twist. Tell us more about the thoughts and ideas behind your various collections. 

Creating aspirational wearable art has always my ultimate dream and Indian handicraft techniques and textiles have always inspired me. It was perhaps this love for delicate and intricate handcrafted artworks that made me pick a field that allows me to indulge in the same. I am very hands-on with my work. I think of myself as more of an artisan — I like to sit with the metal and create new things using my bare hands. Truth be told, there’s nothing quite as fulfilling.

What are your key inspirations?

I draw inspiration from everything around me. Variety inspires me. It’s the love for experimenting with design that leads me to create dynamic forms while keeping the beauty of the pattern intact. There is scope for so many new things and that challenges me to experiment and take risks in terms of material, forms, craft, techniques etc. Since I love traveling, I often take several cues from art and architecture too. Nature, of course, has been a ubiquitous influence across my collections.

What are the top trends and must-have jewellery pieces this season?

Palm cuffs, hath phools and hair accessories are reigning trends at the moment. For someone who likes to go that extra mile with their jewelry, our unique introductions like metal scarves composed of a fish motif, arm spring, elbow cuffs, fingertip rings, gajra hair pins and maathapattis should be go-tos.

Which pieces dominate your personal jewellery box? Tell us about your go-to pieces.

Mrinalini Chandra wearing her own creations

My personal jewellery box is dominated by statement earrings and glass bangles. I also love tribal finds and a lot of my personal jewelry pieces have been acquired during my various travels around the globe. I believe in allowing one accessory to dominate my look and avoid unnecessary clutter.

Do you have an advice on the right way to accessorize?

It is quite interesting to see people accessorize in unexpected ways today. Experimentation is essential and the wearer must always style the accessory in a manner that stays true to their aesthetic. After all, it’s this individual touch that gives jewelry life. I sometimes see people falter when picking the right jewelry for an outfit — the key is that the two should complement each other but never clash and fight for the limelight. A lot of thought needs to be put into this, particularly if you wish to go OTT. Balance is everything.

Which are your favorite pieces from Luxemi’s collection?

I absolutely love the glass kundan earrings available on Luxemi — they promise to give any Indian outfit such an interesting facelift!

 

What do you think of Mrinalini Chandra’s creations? Tell us in the comment box below!