Fashion vs Tradition in Indian Weddings Through a Wedding Planner Lens
What distinguishes fashion from tradition, couture from the customary, is the drive for innovation and the passion to personalize-whether for the era, the moment, or the individual. Fashion fearlessly explores the unknown, venturing into new realms of creativity. It tells a story, makes a statement, while traditional apparel serves as a reminder of what has withstood the test of time. Each approach has its own charm and value.
Indian weddings are deeply rooted in tradition, but in recent years, that tradition seems to have extended to wearing Sabyasachi. This Bengali design icon has seemingly dominated the bridal fashion scene, but as a result, some brides appear to be playing it safe in their lehengas, opting for familiarity over personal expression.
Don’t get us wrong-Sabyasachi’s allure is undeniable. His hand-woven fabrics, impeccable embroidery, and classic silhouettes are the epitome of Indian bridal elegance. This is the wardrobe of an Indian princess. Yet, while his designs inspire awe, it has become somewhat unsettling that bridal wear has become synonymous with Sabyasachi. If your bridal attire isn't by him, it’s often seen as either a compromise or a poor imitation. If Sabyasachi speaks to your heart, by all means, curate your entire trousseau from his collection. But if you’re looking to stand out a bit, read on.
For the bride who loves muted colors, intricate embroidery, and feminine, youthful silhouettes, Manish Malhotra is a designer worth considering. If you’re drawn to structured, edgy designs, Falguni and Shane Peacock-who have dressed international stars like Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani, and Rihanna-might have just what you’re looking for.
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Source: WeddingSutra
Manish Arora’s creations are a dream for the exuberant bride whose imagination cannot be confined to a palette of traditional hues. His designs are a riot of colors with kitschy details that are perfect for a bold, creative spirit. And let’s not forget the iconic Tarun Tahiliani, whose feminine drapes, delicate embellishments, and sophisticated touches keep every collection on trend, unique, and ideal for a grand wedding.
We need to reflect on our reliance on Sabyasachi. Is it a lack of confidence in our own taste that drives us toward the 'big brand'? Is it the fear of missing out on being the quintessential bride on this one special day, leading us to choose the safest option? Or are we simply overwhelmed by the opinions of others who push us toward the 'safe' bet?
Wedifys suggests that you, the bride, should choose an outfit that is entirely and uniquely you. Explore different colors, fabrics, prints, and surface details, and start envisioning how these elements can come together in a way that reflects your personal style. Gradually, you’ll find your inner style evolving from 'this is popular' to ‘this is my personal choice.’
Take inspiration (and couture courage!) from several celebrity brides this year who chose designers that resonated with them, whose aesthetics matched their own. Style icon Sonam Kapoor pleasantly surprised everyone by wearing a lehenga by Anuradha Vakil on her big day. Known for her expertise in textile design, Anuradha crafted a vintage-inspired outfit for the actress that was well received by fashion critics.
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Source: WeddingSutra
Neha Dhupia’s pink Anita Dongre lehenga was a picture of elegance and timelessness. Dongre, a designer who incorporates the heritage crafts of Rajasthan into her work, brought a traditional concept into a contemporary ensemble.
'Masaan' actress Shweta Tripathi walked to her mandap in a bold and quirky lehenga by Papa Don’t Preach By Shubhika. Her lively personality was perfectly matched by Shubhika’s fearless play with conventional lehenga lengths, chunky embellishments like large acrylic mirrors, and an effortless eccentricity.
As we eagerly anticipate one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings of the year, we’re all eyes on Priyanka Chopra. She has carved out a name for herself not just in the entertainment industry on both sides of the globe, but also as a woman who forges her own path. Never one to bow to convention, we can’t wait to see which designers she has chosen to bring her unique sense of style to life on one of the most significant days of her life.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Sabyasachi such a popular choice for Indian bridal wear?
Sabyasachi has become synonymous with Indian bridal wear due to his masterful blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. His use of hand-woven fabrics, intricate embroidery, and timeless silhouettes creates a regal and elegant look that many brides aspire to. His designs are often seen as the epitome of luxury and sophistication, making them a popular choice for weddings.
2. Is it necessary to wear Sabyasachi for my wedding to have a fashionable bridal look
While Sabyasachi is a celebrated designer, it is not necessary to wear his creations to achieve a fashionable bridal look. There are many other talented designers like Manish Malhotra, Falguni and Shane Peacock, and Tarun Tahiliani, who offer unique and stunning bridal options. The key is to choose a designer that resonates with your personal style and makes you feel confident on your special day.
3. What are some alternatives to Sabyasachi for bridal wear?
There are several designers who offer beautiful alternatives to Sabyasachi for bridal wear. Manish Malhotra is known for his youthful and feminine designs with intricate embroidery, Falguni and Shane Peacock offer edgy and structured silhouettes, Manish Arora is ideal for brides who love vibrant colors and bold designs, and Tarun Tahiliani is known for his elegant drapes and delicate embellishments. Exploring these designers can help you find a bridal look that is uniquely yours.
4. Why do some brides feel pressured to choose Sabyasachi for their wedding?
Many brides feel pressured to choose Sabyasachi due to his strong reputation in the bridal fashion industry and the widespread belief that his designs are the ultimate symbol of bridal luxury. Additionally, societal and familial expectations, as well as the desire to conform to popular trends, can contribute to this pressure. However, it's important for brides to remember that their wedding attire should reflect their personal style and preferences, rather than external pressures.
