GIRLS LIKE YOU
GIRLS LIKE YOU
Bride & her tribe, assemble. Designer Mehul Gupta reveals the holy grail of pre-wedding & bridesmaid looks for the season. Poorvi Singhal has all the details.
Mehul Gupta’s eponymous occasionwear label is a masterclass in sculpting ‘em curves, going all out with bling and breathing fresh life into classics. Think concept saris, larger-than-life capes and fish cut skirts. Launched in 2021, the label has grown into a wedding season favourite, especially for cocktails, sangeet nights and pre-wedding parties. The Delhi-based designer outlines a handy 10-point guide for brides and her girls on acing wedding season style.
1. SILHOUETTE SUPREMACY
“Mermaid and fish cut skirts and saris are all the rage right now, as they beautifully elongate your silhouette. Corsets that cinch your waist, paired with flowy saris and skirts make for a structured yet soft look. Pre-draped saris and gowns with faux drapes and pallus are perfect for a night of endless dancing.”
2. COLOUR ME CORAL
“Muted metallics like soft gold, silver, champagne, and antique bronze are making a comeback. But brides should also consider soft, romantic tones such as ivory, corals, powdery lilacs, and dusty rose pink.”
3. NO MORE BLOUSE BLUES
“Blouses are no longer an afterthought. Experiment with off-shoulder, high neck, halter, backless or Bollywood-approved barely there blouses. A structured bustier in gold or silver is a versatile pick that can be styled with a sari, lehenga or even high-waisted trousers for that Indo-Western cocktail memo.”
4. CAPE ESCAPADES
“Trade those dupattas for long, cascading ruffled sleeves—they add drama like nothing else. You can also pick sheer capes for a whimsical look, styled multiple ways. A long veil winding as a train can also add a beautiful dimension to your ensemble.”
5. GILDED GLAMOUR
“Maximalism reigns supreme again. Say yes to fabrics and embroideries that exude a sensual glow. Think microsequin accents, metallic hints or a subtle sheen. Jewel toned embellishments are a new, luxe way of adding some radiance to your look. Crystal rhinestones too are being used in more sophisticated ways than ever before.”
6. STATEMENT STAPLES
“An embroidered jumpsuit is the new age equivalent of a classic kurta set, perfect for the many post-wedding dinners or even pre-wedding functions. A heavy, hand-embroidered dupatta in neutral tones like ivory or blush can elevate any kurta, lehenga or plain dress. A statement peplum is an adaptable piece that’ll go with skirts, palazzos and saris.”
7. FLOWERS & FRINGES
“Laser cutwork embroidery with 3D floral motifs is the hottest thing right now. We are exploring techniques for a layered 3D look, where every petal and leaf has depth. An interplay of threads and sequin can create fresh patterns and textures adding a nuanced, layered look. Fringes and tassels too can lend some playfulness to your ensemble.”
8. PEARLS PLEASE
“We’re taking the timeless elegance of pearls to the next level with an entire collection of pearl-beaded embroideries. From pre-draped to ruffled, one shoulder to sculpted, we have a pearl sari for every occasion. What’s more? Pearl embedded coord sets, chic dresses, sharara sets and jumpsuits.”
9. FABULOUS EXTRAS
“Add fresh flowers to your hair (beach waves or a slick ponytail are my favourites) for that evergreen charm. Bows are the new ‘it girl’ accessory—add them to your hair, jewellery or go all in with a huge one at the back of your blouse or gown. For jewellery, you can never go wrong with pearls.”
10. SHEER & SENSUOUS
“See-through fabrics are flirtatious and breathable, making them equal parts functional and fashionable. An organza sari in a light hue, sheer anarkali tops with solid bustiers teamed with shararas, laced lehengas, and sheer capes with sequins are all failsafe picks.”
