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Anita Dongre’s Bridal Lehengas

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Brides, let your outfit dreams come alive with Anita Dongre’s Bridal Lehengas

As a bride, choosing the perfect outfit for your big day can be stressful. Today’s brides are more experimental and open to new styles with their trousseau choices. But when you’re out shopping, it is important that you choose outfits that are wearable and timeless. There are styles available in the market that will leave you spoilt for choice. But for most brides, the timelessness of the classic Indian bridal lehenga has a special place in the heart. If you’re among them, Anita Dongre presents her spectacular collection of bridal lehengas for you to turn your dream of being an elegant princess bride into reality.

Inspired by Anita Dongre’s travels through Rajasthan, the lehengas crafted by the label brim with royalty. Beautiful embroidery and gota-patti work on handwoven fabrics such as silk and cotton that take the form of an elegant bridal lehenga gives a royal feel and appearance. Here are some of my favourites from Anita Dongre’s creations of mesmerizing bridal lehengas for your indulgence.

Anita Dongre’s Bridal Lehengas

1. For the day bride: The Zainab Lehenga

Light hues and pastel colours are the new rage for brides who have their ceremonies during the daytime. Anita Dongre’s The Zainab Lehenga is a sage green silk lehenga adorned with gota-patti, dori, pearl, sequin and zardosi, styled with a net dupatta embroidered with motifs of trees branching out into rustling leaves and blossoming flowers with chirping birds perched atop branches. Style this elegant lehenga with a dazzling mathapatti and a choker necklace to look like the princess of a fairytale.

2. For the timeless bride: The Karnika Lehenga

The timelessness of a red lehenga is known to enhance the inner glow of the effervescent bride. Anita Dongre’s The Karnika Lehenga is a red silk choli paired with a silk A-line lehenga, styled with a net dupatta, exquisitely embroidered with gota-patti, pearl, zardosi, sequin and dori work in motifs of lush trees. Inspired by the royalty of Rajasthani art, architecture, and culture, this gorgeous lehenga will make you look nothing less than a Rajput bride. Complement this stunning lehenga with jadau long earrings, a maangtikka, a choker and polki bangles to complete your look.

3. For the experimental bride: The Amardha Lehenga

Red, pink and orange are common colours chosen by brides. If you want to try something different, Anita Dongre brings you The Amardha Lehenga. It is a royal blue silk lehenga embellished with mirror work, dori, resham and sequin work, styled with a silk dupatta with gota-patti, dori, zardosi, sequin and pearl work. Look like the star brightening your special evening in this beautiful lehenga. Pair this timeless creation with stunning pearl drop earrings, a jadau necklace and blue embroidered mojri heels to get the regal look.

4. For the forever-fashionable bride: The Niryasa Lehenga & Arsika Shirt

If you’re a bride who wants to ditch the traditional lehenga-choli look and don’t want the heaviness of a dupatta, Anita Dongre presents to you The Nirvasa Lehenga & Arsika Shirt. A champagne organza shirt and silk skirt with pockets on either sides. It is exquisitely embellished with intricate gota patti, dori, zardosi, sequin, and pearl embellishments, and is paired with a natural obi belt cinched at the waist. Complete this look with floral earrings and block heels to look like the bride of a new era.

Choose Anita Dongre’s classic and elegant designer bridal lehengas to charm your way through your big day!

Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Delhi, Prices, Contact Details

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Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Delhi, Prices, Contact Details

By Sanchita

Wedding makeup isn’t easy. You just cant cake up the face and look like you have kilos of makeup and end up looking nothing like yourself. It is such an occasion where you just can’t get away with the wrong shade of lip color or blush because the spotlight will always be on you, throughout. Therefore it is best to rely on the professional bridal makeup artists. Delhi has a bunch of stylists, and makeup artists to choose from and thus the bride is surely spoilt for choice for her wedding day. But, choosing the best amongst so many options is definitely a difficult task to begin with. We have enlisted the best bridal makeup artists and you may consider booking an appointment with for your wedding day.

1. Guru Makeup Artist (Gursewak)

Gursewak Singh (popularly known as Guru Makeup Artist) is one of the top bridal makeup artists in Delhi. He has worked for famous brands like MAC and Make Up For Ever and later took up freelance bridal makeup assignments all over Delhi & NCR. He is also available for destination weddings. Most of his brides have minimal and contemporary makeup look with enhanced features and also does the makeup according to the preference to the clients. Apart from bridal work, he has also worked for fashion shows, movie industry, photography, TV, etc. You can surely take a look of his brides on his website www.gurumakeupart.com

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +91 9582 01 84 95 and Email: info@gurumakeupart.com

Also Read: Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Bangalore and Best Bridal Makeup Artists in Kolkata

2. Ambika Pillai

Ambika Pillai is the most popular bridal artists of Delhi. Her awards for makeup include Vogue Best Make-up Artist Award 2011, Cosmopolitan Fun Fearless Female Awards for Best Hair and Makeup Artist 2009 and Bharat Nirman Super Achievers Award 2007. The bridal services include hair wash, hairstyling, draping as well and hence you won’t have to look any further. However, she is not available for destination weddings but her senior makeup artists are. Every bride of her looks elegant and flawless and you can check more details on her website www.ambikapillai.com

CONTACT DETAILS – D-16 South Extension Part 2, 3rd floor, above Fitness First, New Delhi – 110049. Mobile: +91 8377019766 and Email: customercare@ambikapillai.com

3. Chandni Singh

Chandni Singh is one of the most high-priced bridal artists of Delhi but she’s totally worth it. Every bride of her has this charming look where she accentuates the features and tries minimalistic look on her brides. She lays emphasis on the base which should be smooth and flawless. Chandni Singh’s offered services for brides includes hair, makeup, and nails. You can check more of her work on her webpage www.chandnisingh.com

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +91 11 41666441 442 and +91 9810085243. Email: Chandni@ChandniSingh.com

Also Read: Top 10 Locations for the Perfect Destination Wedding in India

4. Komal Gulati

Komal Gulati is an expert on international bridal makeup and her work is pure magic. Her lays emphasis on how the bride should look dewy, glowing and yet keeps the bridal makeup minimal and classy. She is mainly Delhi-based and also takes freelance assignments. She makeup courses include Professional School of Makeup London and another course from the famous Beyond The Fringe, Sydney. Thus, she is a thorough professional in her field. She does air-makeup as well and also check out her works on www.komalgulati.com

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +91 9811033843. Email: komal@komalgulati.com/makeupkg@gmail.com

5. Shruti Sharma

Shruti Sharma is Delhi based bridal makeup artist who started as a freelance makeup artist in 2008. She has her own bridal studio at Chattarpur, New Delhi and she is available for outstations as well. Her fee ranges between Rs. 20k to 40k in general. Every bride of hers has flawless glowing skin with expressive eye makeup. You can see glimpses of her work on her website www.shrutisharmamakeup.in

CONTACT DETAILS – Phone: +918800578358 / +919899048153 and Email: roguealert@gmail.com

Top 10 Locations for the Perfect Destination Wedding in India

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Top 10 Locations for the Perfect Destination Wedding in India

By Sanchita

Wedding is a ‘once in a lifetime’ kind of affair and every one desires to have this day perfectly of what they have pictured so far. Indian weddings are mostly known to be larger than life with all the pomp and show and what makes it even more splendid and magnificent is the perfect destination. India is a country of races and communities and every corner of the nation offers excellent wedding destinations with choices variegating from the wedding beside the pristine white beaches, magnificent forts or the serenity of mountains and rivers.

Every destination is breathtaking and thus the destination of your choice which will make the wedding a cherished event forever etched in your memory. So, to narrow down your lists, here’s the compilation of the list of ten wonderful sites for a Destination Wedding in India.

1. Goa

This is India’s one of the trendiest and splendid location for a destination wedding. If you want the exotic feel of the grand affair with the beauty of pristine beaches, palm trees, mouth-watering sea food, wine, music with serenity and calmness all around, Goa should on top of the list. The dream fairy tale wedding you have been planning with the magnificently decorated beach is surely one of the best things in the world. You can also have the quiet ceremonial rituals of the old churches with ethnic beauty.

It is surely breathtaking to tie the knot against the backdrop of beaches that are flanked by the gleaming blue water. For location if you want a luxurious place, you can go for Park Hyatt Goa, Taj, Leela, and Radisson Resorts or choose the peacefulness and gentle waves of Arabian Sea. The best time for the wedding in Goa is between October to January. With the pleasant cool climate.

Also Read: Mumbai Bridal Diaries

2. Udaipur

Do you remember Kalki Kochelin’s Wedding from the movie Ye Jawani Hai Deewani? Udaipur is one of the finest destinations for Indian wedding. It is known as the “the “Venice of the East” due to its rich heritage, culture and architectural splendour. It is surrounded by lakes on all sides and this romantic destination is perfect for tying the knot. The royal palaces, castles, splendid lakes and sheer beauty of the place will give you the extraordinary fairy-tale wedding one can hope for. The popular venues in Udaipur for weddings are Jag Mandir Palace or the Oberoi- UdaiVilas, Devi Gargh, Fateh Garh Palace, Chunda Palace, Leela Palace Kempinski. The best time would be August to December. However, make sure you do the bookings early.

3. Jaipur

Jaipur is another royal location for destination weddings. This royal capital of Rajasthan is often known as the ‘Pink City’ that offers a mélange of heritage and exquisiteness for all the grandiose marriage celebrations with the authentic ostentatious palaces or erstwhile mansions. The majestic wedding with nothing but be a royal affair with the aristocratic decorations. The best places for the destination wedding will be the Raj Palace, Rambagh Palace, and Jai Mahal Palace. The best time would be early November or late February but make sure you plan everything well in advance.

4. Jodhpur

Jodhpur, serves as the gateway to the mysterious land of boundless sands, is again situated in Rajasthan, which clearly has no earth of exotic and regal destination for the big fat Indian weddings. The grand palaces are great for extravagant weddings in the beautiful ‘blue city’. The beauty, magnificence and sheer royalty of this place is outstanding and a dream destination. The suitable places in Jodhpur will be Ranbanka Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhavan Palace and Ajit Bhawan. The best time would be September to November. However, do confirm with the venue officials for customizing your wedding package if you are on a budget.

5. Agra

Agra sounds one of most clichéd destinations for wedding but the splendid beauty of the place cant be ignored at all. The place is itself the epitome of love with the beauty of the Taj Mahal and has a touch of historic and ethnic beauty to it. Thus, the opulent and royal wedding ceremony can easily be conducted here with numerous wedding venues. This city has many gigantic hotels and resorts looking across the Taj. The best time for the wedding in Agra is between October to January.

6. Hyderabad

Hyderabad is known as the “Pearl City” and indeed it is a city of pearls and nizams. Thus, this is surely one of the dream wedding destinations with a real and the romantic one. The best and opulent venue would be the Taj Falaknuma Palace surrounded by the rich culture of Nizams. The palce is situated majestically on the hills of about two-thousand- foot high and the grandeur celebration with be eye catching. The Main Lawns holds a capacity of 1500 guests. The other places would be the Chowmallah Palace in Hyderabad. The time for tying the knot would be October onwards.

7. Kerala

Kerala, one of the best destinations for wedding, is also commonly known as ‘God’s Own Country’. The serenity of sprawling backwaters and various inland water bodies is the beauty one can crave for. One of the best resorts in India called the The Leela, located at Kovalam, is a perfect pick for destination wedding. Apart from that, there are various beaches, straggling tea gardens of Munnar; or in the heritage building of Kochi fort. The best time to tie the knot in Kerala is from September to March.

8. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Go a little offbeat and tie the knot amidst the white sand beaches, possibly in an astonishing private resort. The place is surely a paradise with the charm of idyllic beaches and lush green forests. One of the famous places for wedding is the Havelock or the Ross Islands. You can also go for the Munjoh Ocean Resort which is a luxuriant and lavish property that is one of the most remarkable and unique resorts in Havelock. The best time pick would be in winter months.

9. Shimla

If you want a summer wedding yet a comfortable weather to begin with, Shimla is the best place for a destination wedding. The alluring mountains and the delightful city is going to make this memorable event etched in your heart forever. The beauty of tying the knot in a forest guest house or campside with rivers flowing by is going to make the wedding look extraordinary and unconventional. Woodville Palace and Radisson Hotel are some popular venues in Shimla for arranging wedding ceremonies.

10. Rishikesh

Marriage is a holy union to two souls and what place, other than the highly religious place like Rishikesh, can be an option? The pleasing, sacramental and splendid backdrop of the banks of the holy river Ganga in Varanasi or Rishikesh adds devoutness and sanctity to the ceremony. The bets place would be the banks of River Ganges, Ganga Kinare which is a fascinating haven for wedding celebrations. Apart from that, you can also choose The Hotel
Ganga Kinare. Traditional wedding ceremonies are also held under the open skies. October to March would be the best time but make your bookings well in advance.

So, which is your favourite destination for your big day?

Indian Wedding Dresses for Bride’s/Bridegroom’s Sister

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Indian Wedding Dresses for Bride’s/Bridegroom’s Sister

By Sanchita

Wedding is just not the special day for the bride and groom, it is equally special for Bride’s/Bridegroom’s Sister. Every sister would want to deck up and to choose the best outfit for her brother or sister’s wedding. Well, gone are the days when saree and lehenga are the only options. Indian Wedding is generally all about the rich culture and traditional outfits but if you want the spotlight on you, you must check out the variety of outfits. Also, while choosing you have to keep in mind that the outfit should look apt and not clash with the elaborate outfit of the bride.

Wedding day means the crazy surrounding with variety of preparations. And, choosing an outfit to match your body and personality is another job altogether. There is a variety of ethnic options available to you to rock your brother or sister’s wedding. After all, you are the bridesmaid! Let’s have a look at the wedding dresses.

1. Lehenga with Embroidery Work

I recently saw Sonam Kapoor wearing a gorgeous off-white lehenga with golden embroidery work for her cousin brother Akshay Marwah’s big fat Punjabi wedding. the color was soothing yet was glamorous. It had a regal feel and needlessly to say, Sonam carried it off like a diva. She paired the look with golden jewellery, a braided up-do and subtle makeup. This is surely an outfit goal for the bride’s/bridegroom’s sister.

2. Floor Length Anarkali Suit

Floor Length Anarkali Suit makes a wonderful wedding outfit for the sister. It is inspired by the royal opulence of the Mughal era and radiates every bit of grandeur, ethereal charm and beauty. You can easily pair it up with statement jewellery and glowing skin. These floor length anarkali designs can be done in pretty colors, beautiful designs and intricate art work and lovely motifs as well. Currently, floor length anarkalis have created a major fashion statement across the globe as a wedding outfit.

3. Floor Length Indo-Western Gown

Gown is extremely popular in the western world as a wedding outfit but the classy Indo-Western Gown is an ethereal combination of east and west. Various Indian designers have created their own version of Indo-Western Gown and it is nothing but stylish. You can go bling or for softer colors like pink, yellow or coral. Pair it up with glowing skin and bold lips.

4. Half-lehenga Saree

Indian wear is always classy but when you fusion one with another, it is nothing less than outstanding. The Half-lehenga Saree is a combination of the saree and lehenga and is considered as one of the perfect traditional wear for weddings or parties. It has modernized styles on the runway with the conventional lehenga and some fantastic adjustments. Simply drape a choli around to give the impression of the saree.

5. Lehenga

This is one of the one of the oldest and obvious choice but as they say, old is gold. This is one of the most popular choice and you would find a variety of design when it comes to lehenga. If you want to stick to the ethnic ensemble. It adds an elegant touch to the look and you can either go for heavy jewellery or heavy makeup.

6. Lehenga with Jacket

A jacket for Indian wedding? Of course! Your fashion sense and style has to be on point when you sport the Lehenga with rich embroidery Jacket with it. It is a great time to experiment and this is a style that would surely turn heads. It is a great way to modernize Indian traditional wear and has a conventional charm as well. The Lehenga-Jacket is easier to carry as well with the right kind of makeup and hairdo.

7. Off Shoulder Top with Traditional Long Skirt

Off shoulder trend is ruling the western world and outfits, therefore, why not add some Indian traditional touch to it? Pair up an Off Shoulder Top with a beautiful traditional statement necklace and long skirt. Make sure that the skirt is flowy, has embroidery and traditional touch to it. This would easily balance out the Off Shoulder Top and add a wonderful contemporary touch to the ensemble.

8. Saree

This is one of the most popular choice as well. Saree has been worn at every Indian wedding and all you can do is choose the fabric carefully that would look nice on you and compliment the look. Needless to say, this is one of the safest choice as well. Also, saree can be drape in various ways as well.

9. Lehenga with Cape

Regular lehenga designs have gotten an upgrade in terms of style and silhouette over the years. The beauty of overflowing, floaty vibe of lehenga and cape is phenomenal. It has such gorgeous ensemble and it will definitely make to stand out in the crowd. Pair it up with Maang Tikka and bangles and see how dazzling it looks.

10. Long Jacket and Dhoti Pants

This is one stunning combination for a traditional outfit. The Long Jacket and Dhoti Pant with traditional design has the touch of Indo-Bohemian style to it. it is detailed with every bit of elegance, sophistication and richness of Indian traditional outfit and you can easily flaunt this for reception as well.

11. Saree Gown

This is one of the hassle free outfit and when our favorite celebrities flaunted them with such grace and elegance – you have to try this traditional outfit rolled with a modern touch.

12. Palazzo Suit

Palazzo pants were extremely popular in the 1970s and it made a comeback as a western outfit. Well, now you can wear it traditionally as well – paired with a traditional suit. The heavy work kurta along with a dupatta with match up extremely well with palazzo for a wedding.

Editor’s Note: Loved all the outfits Sanchita, very nice and helpful compilation.

So, which is your favorite wedding outfit?

Top 10 Indian Bridal Hairstyles

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Top 10 Indian Bridal Hairstyles

By Sanchita

Indian weddings are generally the typical ‘big fat’ ones and this is the D-Day of the bride. Everything, from makeup to costume and hair has to be on point so that the bride looks nothing less than an angel walking down the aisle. To achieve the desired heavenly look, make sure to choose your hairstyle wisely while decking up. Times have changed since the typical bun and braid hairstyles for wedding and now-a- days, the brides can look equally traditional and beautiful with short hair or long one. Of course there are various hairstyles to choose from but it also confuses us a lot. Therefore, we have narrowed down the top 10 bridal hairstyles from short, medium and long hair to enhance the facial features and make her the center of all attention.

Here goes the list.

For Short Hair

1. Reverse tiara hairstyle – This is a gorgeous hairstyle for short length hair. To achieve this look, first blow dry the hair with big loose curls in the front. Then, middle part the hair and attached the pearly tiara at the back and tugging the front hair. For the back portion, make some tight curls and use a hair spray to keep them in place. And hair reverse tiara hairstyle is done.

2. Side braid hairstyle – Blow dry the hair and do a side Dutch braid along the side till the back. Secure the end with a bobby pin. Now, for the rest of the hair, simply curl and tug them with bobby pins to give an illusion of volume. Make sure all the tugging is on one side to give an impression of side bun. Lastly, put 3-4 floral pins to decorate the look and use a hairspray to make sure the hair is kept safely.

3. Low bun with accessories – Well, you can create low bun with short hair as well! Simply straighten the hair (simple straight and not poker one) and middle part the hair. Give a sleek look and bring all the hair in the back, forming a low pony. Now, divide the pony into several parts. Take a single potion, roll it and tug with a bobby pin. Similarly, follow this up for other parts as well. Now, add the shown accessories from the front to the back side, forming a half crescent on both the sides. Use a hairspray to finish the hairstyle and a pretty bridal hairstyle is done.

For Medium Length Hair

1. Matha patti hairstyle – Matha patti is a very popular hair accessory for bride and has been used in various bridal occasions. Well, you can incorporate a traditional Matha patti and create a gorgeous hairstyle for yourself. This is best for medium hair length. Blow dry the hair well to create a natural volume. Now, middle part the hair slightly and tease the crown area and create a puff there. Secure it nicely with bobby pins. Now, for the rest of the hair, simply curl them and let it be loose. Wear the Matha patti and secure this with bobby pins at the back. Finish off the look with a hairspray to keep the hair in place.

2. Layered bun hairstyle – This one of the most elegant hairstyles for brides in the year 2016. To start off, blow dry the hair and create loose big curls. You can middle part or side part the hair and form a voluminous puff by teasing the crown area and secure it well with bobby pins. Now, take a portion of hair from both the sides, roll them and secure with bobby pins. Keep doing it till you reach the lower end and the hair would form something like a waterfall layered bun as shown in picture.

3. Braid and bun hairstyle – Combine the quintessential braid and bun and create a gorgeous voluminous bridal hairstyle. Blow dry the hair well and form a puff on the crown area. Create a fluffy French braid from the crown to the nape area and secure the end with a black rubber band. Take the rest of the hair and create a voluminous bun and secure it well. Apply hairspray to keep the hair at place and attach a floral pin or any other hair accessory of your choice.

For Long Hair

1. Twist up bun – This is a very detailed and beautiful bridal hairstyle for long hair. Middle part the hair and create two waterfall braid from the front and bringing them together at them back, encircling the crown area. Once done, secure the ends well and seal with a bobby pin. Now for the rest of the hair, comb well and detangle it properly. Take small sections and twist the whole length wrapping around your fingers and make a small bun out of it. Fix the bun properly with a bobby pin. Now, do this for the rest of the hair and eventually it will form a beautiful twist bun. You can decorate it with hair accessories or flowers.

2. Side swept curls – There is nothing more beautiful and heavenly that loose side swept curls for the bridal hairstyle. Deep condition and blow dry the hair well with voluminous spray. Now either middle part or side part the hair according to your preference. Next, bring the side layers (one at a time) towards the back, forming some volume in the front. For the rest of the hair, use a big curling wand to create big loose curls and side swept the hair. When the hair will cascade down, it will look stunning for the bride.

3. Loose braid for the Christian bride – Sometimes it is tough to create a hairstyle on thin hair as it may look a bit weighed down. But this loose braid hairstyle is the perfect pick for the Christian bride walking down the aisle. Firstly, side part the hair and swept it together on one side. Now, take a section of hair and make a fishtail braid. Once down, pull the sides of the braid to create volume. Repeat this procedure for one or more times. Once satisfied, take the front layer and tug it towards the back of the head and put a floral accessory to add some prettiness to it.

4. Traditional decorated braid – This is a very simple traditional long braid hairstyle for the bride. Simply middle part or side part the hair and create a neat braid. You can also opt for French or fishtail braid and decorate it with flowers or hair accessories.

Image Source: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9

Editor’s Note: I loved all, especially the Medium ones!

So, which is your favorite Bridal Hairstyle?

Types of Anarkalis & Choosing Anarkali for your Body Type

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Types of Anarkalis & Choosing Anarkali for your Body Type

Hi guys,

When it comes to Indian wear, anarkalis have been back in fashion since the past 5-6 years and they are still in trend, I don’t think that trend is going anywhere. Simply because they are super comfortable and easy to wear for weddings, etc. too. Anarkali is the only outfit which is traditional Indian wear and yet very comfortable to wear and roam around in 😀 When you get best of both worlds, stick to it.

Today I am talking about different types of anarkalis and how to choose one according to your body type.

1. Cotton Anarkali

These are the most simple and basic kinds, which you can wear to work or a light function. Comfortable yet traditional and very light. There are many options of anarkali suits online by BIBA and on Myntra, Jabong, etc.

2. Silk Anarkali

Silk ones can be a little heavier or lighter depending on the embellishments on it, but certainly expensive. You can go for the lighter silk ones for a daytime function and the heavier ones for some big function or wedding.

3. Asymmetric Anarkali

Asymmetric Anarkalis are quite in trend and look chic too. These again can be in lighter cotton ones or heavier silk or bridal ones. I love how it is shorter in the front and slightly longer behind, this would work on short girls too. I know how it is difficult to find a anarkali when you are short. Been there :/

4. Layered Anarkali

Again just like the asymmetric ones, layered ones are also pretty IN and I absolutely love them. They give a jacket kind of look or 2-3 layers which are shorter and keep on increasing in length. Currently the mesh capes are quite in trend and would look good over an anarkali too.

5. Bridal Anarkali

Now this is something very heavy, Sikh brides usually wear a suit or anarkali during their Anand Karaj. They can opt for a super heavy embellished anarkali. Also if you want to wear one for your mehendi or sangeet, the bridal ones are perfect.

Choosing an Anarkali according to body type

Inverted Triangle- If you have an inverted triangle body type i.e top heavy with broad shoulders, avoid boat necks, high neck collars or bulky shoulder patterns as that will bring more attention towards the broad shoulders.

Hourglass- Well if you have an hourglass figure, all anarkalis will look fabulous on you. Just make sure it accentuates your waist well and the flare starts below the waist.

Apple shaped- If you are apple shapes, wear empire line silhouettes in anarkalis which means the flare starting just below your waist which will help you hide your core problem area.

Pear shaped- If you have a well defined waist, then you can go for anarkalis starting below the waist and the flare will hide your lower problem area or else again empire line will work the best.

Short, petite girls- If you are short or petite, go for shorter kurtas with less flare as you don’t want the anarkali to look like a gown and neither like you wearing a tent.

If you are tall, anarkalis are made for you! You can wear them anytime, anywhere 😀

I hope this helped, do let me know in the comments below. If you are a bride-to-be, keep these tips in mind and choose an anarkali according to your body type.

Do you like Anarkalis? Which is your favourite type?

How To Plan Your Wedding Trousseau

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How To Plan Your Wedding Trousseau

Hi guys,

Continuing the bridal posts from last month, today we are talking about wedding trousseau. How to plan it, what all to include, etc.

Trousseau mostly includes a new wardrobe, jewellery, makeup, clutches, shoes, basically everything a bride needs post wedding. Now every family has a different budget and different customs, some have a total of 11 outfits to give and some have 21 to 51 depending on the budget.

A bride should always mix and match the outfits in a trousseau, go for some anarkalis, some lehengas, sarees, kurtis and even western dresses for your honeymoon and the likes, so you have 1-2 options for every occasion post your wedding for at least a few months. But also keep your choice and lifestyle in mind, if you wear more of western wear and hardly wear any sarees, go for some basic 2-3 pieces and not more. Keep a balance and include everything but more of what you would actually need and use.

Jadtar (Kundan) Set

Coming to the outfits, what you must include is one piece of each type, like embroidery work, thread work, real silk, organza, zardozi, benarasi, gotta patti, so that from a simple occasion to a more grand occasion, you are sorted for everything. Also always have basic colors of blouses, petticoats and churidhars like gold, silver, red, green, blue, black and white so that you can mix and match.

Do not forget to include 1-2 classic pieces like silk, kanjeevaram, benarasi sarees or dresses that you can wear on any occasion and whatever the current trends, coz classic never goes out of style.

Also as already mentioned include more of western wear if that is what you are going to wear more of, anyway. New pair of denims, few tops, dresses, maxi dresses, skirts, and anything you can mix and match, a honeymoon wardrobe basically 😀

Lingerie, the most important, the right style and fit of lingerie can make or break your outfit. Invest in different types of lingerie & night wear like strapless, sports bra, lace, set of briefs and a few different styles of night wear.

Do not forget the accessories, bags and shoes. A basic gold and silver clutch for weddings, a formal bag, a casual bag and 2-3 pairs of basic shoes again including wedding wear, casual wear and a formal heels will keep you sorted. For accessories, buy only stuff that you would wear and matches your style from chunky statement pieces to delicate and dainty pieces, choose what you would actually use and relates to your style.

The most expensive part of your trousseau is the jewellery, invest in one gold and one diamond set at least but keep in mind your style when you buy it. For me personally, I like small and delicate jewellery and chose accordingly. Invest in classics that would go with your wedding wear and also evening or formal wear at the same time.

Makeup, again as I mentioned a lot of times, choose basic colors like golds, greens and browns for eye shadows or go for a palette which has all the basic shades. Or pick single eyeshadows and combine them in a magnetic palette to make your own customized palette. For lipsticks, choose a red, orange, nude, pink and you will be sorted for all outfits. But always try the shade before and pick up a tone that matches and works for your skin. Blush and highlighter are also an important part. Read my detailed post on what makeup your should include in your wedding trousseau HERE.

A cupboard to keep all the above stuff 😀 Also if you are setting up a new home, some basic home accessories can also be included. A bed spread, bed sheet and the likes would anyway be a part of trousseau. You will also be gifted dinner sets, tea sets and a lot of home accessories on your wedding, so maybe can buy those later.

Do not shop way too much and always be mindful of your budget. The key here is a balance of everything but within your budget 🙂

Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

5 Colours & Fabrics for Winter Weddings

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5 Colours & Fabrics for Winter Weddings

Hi guys,

Continuing the bridal series, today’s topic is the fabrics and colours that are perfect for weddings in the winter season. Fabric is the most important when it comes to Indian ethnic wear; also it should be something you are comfortable with, because comfort is most important when it comes to the heavy wedding attire.

There are different options to choose from like organza, mal, suede, silk, crepe, chiffon, georgette, etc. It is quite confusing for a bride to be honest. However, fret not, let me list down the best options for you according to the current wedding season.

1. Organza

Organza is one of the most fluid fabrics and it falls beautifully. It is perfect for the sleeves or as the top layer of your skirt/ghagra/lehenga. It looks amazing as a jacket or cape too. Zardozi work looks beautiful on the organza fabric.

2. Silk

One of the most used fabrics in Indian ethnic wear is silk. There are different types within silk like raw silk, cotton silk, etc. Raw silk looks the best when it comes to choli or the blouse. You can even wear an entire anarkali or ghagra choli of silk.

3. Crepe

Crepe works well for sarees and tunics. Crepe sarees look beautiful, even on curvy women as it gives shape and definition to the body and does not make one look bulky. Long crepe jackets are also a good option for winters.

4. Mal

Mal fabric is the softest and most comfortable for any attire. It is perfect for daytime weddings, though it is slightly on the expensive side, but, for days when you have to be out for a ceremony whole day, mal fabric outfit would be your best bet.

5. Velvet

Velvet is also a perfect fabric for winters. You can add it on the choli’s sleeves or as a thick border for your bottoms.

Coming to colours now…

1. Powder Pink/Blush Pink/Onion Pink

Pastel shades of pink are “in” this season and they look beautiful. Matched up with contrasting colours like navy blue and purple for the bottoms or borders, it makes the outfit stand out.

2. Bright shade of yellow

Oh yes! The sunshine yellow with floral print and appliqué style looks beautiful. Add gota patti border and it notches up the outfit. It is perfect for your mehendi/chooda ceremony. You can easily buy the fabric border and get it stitched as per your design.

3. Ivory/Toasted Almond

Now, ivory is not something you can wear for your functions as light shades are not really considered a good sign by some, but, you can definitely include it in your trousseau. Match it up with a bright red in a saree or anarkali and stand out, on a silk base.

4. Tangerine

Tangerine/Orange is my favourite! Bright orange paired with sunshine yellow/pink looks beautiful. You can go for a lehenga/anarkali in those shades with dull gold zardozi work on it.

5. Emerald Green

Emerald/jewel green is also “in” this season. It compliments lighter colours and makes for a nice contrast. Polki jewellery looks beautiful with an outfit that has a hint of green.

What are your favourite fabrics and colors for winter weddings?

The Art to Picking the Right Engagement Ring for Brides and Grooms

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The Art to Picking the Right Engagement Ring for Brides and Grooms

Hi guys,

Continuing the bridal series, today we are talking about the right engagement ring for the brides an grooms. Here are a few pointers which will help you pick the right engagement ring:

Establishing the budget: Decide a budget and stick to it more or less when you go ring shopping. The jewellers will try and show you expensive ones and solitaires, if it is something that does not fit your budget, don’t even look at those!

Find the perfect size: Get your ring finger sized first and go for the closest match, but make sure it is neither too tight nor too loose. Definitely not loose, it can be slightly rolled if it is bit tighter.

Ring band: There are so many different metals used for rings these days, most common being yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, platinum, and silver. You can even go for a mix of metals.

Quality of diamonds: When choosing a diamond, you have to check the four C’s i.e. Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat Weight. Choose a diamond keeping in mind all these four characteristics.

Shape of diamond: You can go for round, oval, pear, heart, princess, there are different shapes to choose from. Shape of the diamond matters the most, even before everything else. Princess cut is the most common and something mostly people opt for.

Setting of diamonds: That is the main part again, if you opt for one big stone, you can for solitaire or Tiffany setting. If you have smaller stones, then you can cluster a shape or even mix the smaller clusters around the main, big solitaire.

Shape of ring: Keep in mind your hand shape, length of fingers and what shape of ring would look best on your fingers, before finalizing a ring.

The same rules apply when buying diamond rings for both brides and grooms, just that the shape of the diamond is not much of a concern for the groom as mostly it is the square setting and shape.

A couple can also opt for platinum bands if they prefer or even get it personalized by engraving their initials or date or place tbey met.

What do you think? Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below 🙂