Bridal fashion in India has peaked interest worldwide, courtesy of the Big Fat Indian Wedding! The paragon of an Indian Bride is wrapped in shades of crimson, ruby or scarlet, gilded with fine jewels. In contrast to the serene ‘White Wedding’ in western culture, rich shades of red or pink has been the norm in India for centuries . The eastern coast loves to see an Indian bride decked in rich hues and glamorous jewels from head to toe.
The trajectory of red associated with weddings dates back to Hindu mythology that symbolizes each colour in nature. According to traditional belief, red signifies prosperity. Red is also an ode to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and peaceful family life.
Inspired by this ancestral significance, Indian couturiers have given birth to magnificent Bridal creations dipped in shades of red. This includes the biggest names in the industry and master couturiers like Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Ritu Kumar. But, the world is a slave to change– as we know it! The recent global dynamics altered this age-old tradition and placed ivory on an equal footing with the traditional vermillion reds and fuschia pinks.
The year 2022 started off with a welcome change as Indian brides ditched the stark colour palettes for soothing hues of white. The raging new colour trend opposes the association of neutral shades with being bland and boring. The modern Bride is conscious, minimalist and thoughtful. With muted-tones paired with bold gold accents taking center stage, bridal fashion has seen a major trend shift.
Celebrities who lead the way
Celebrity weddings established new rules for bridal sartoria this year. When Alia Bhatt got married to beau Ranbir Kapoor in a serene ivory Sabyasachi saree and veil, Indian brides-to-be went gaga over her uncluttered yet minimalist glam look. As she posed against a dusk backdrop, the actress looked like a breath of fresh air. The custom-made outfit with delicate gold embroidery added the perfect amount of chicness and luster.
Rhea Kapoor tied the knot in a white and gold saree by Anamika Khanna when the trend was setting in. She had added her own personal touch to the attire by adding an exquisite pearl-string veil. The trend got further prominence by designer Arpita Mehta. She donned a regal creation from her own label, during her all-white themed wedding. The designer was seen in a detailed gold and ivory mirror-work Lehenga with a dreamy, floor-sweeping veil. Some known celebrities attended the wedding, serving splendid wedding looks in shades of ivory!
Will the trend stand the test of time?
Whether it’s a classic Tarun Tahiliani bride in beige and ivory, or a traditional South Indian Bride in a white Kanjivaram- the trend has existed for years without dominating mainstream fashion. Despite being around for several years, white bridal wear in India had not quite received the recognition it deserves – until recently.
Post-pandemic when weddings became an intimate affair, mostly taking place in terrace gardens and backyards, brides started adapting this minimalism into their wedding trousseau as well. As a result, the average Indian Bride moved away from the stereotypical colour palette. Naturally, the fashion industry, including leading designers, started following the same instinct, giving birth to Bridal masterpieces in ivory & gold.
Hot trends popularized by celebrities have a history of a very hyped yet shorter life span. A typical Indian wedding is full of vivacious colours everywhere you look. Though ‘ivory’ and whites are a blazing trend right now, whether they will level up to the age-old classic traditionalism, is yet to be seen!