A lehenga is one of the most gorgeous outfits that Indian brides wear on their wedding day. Inspired by Bollywood celebrities, brides now want to look no less than a film star on their big day. From choosing the perfect lehenga to accessorizing it right, here are top tips to help you wear a lehenga like a true Bollywood bride.
Choose the Right Silhouette
Bollywood lehengas come in different silhouettes. The classic style is a flared lehenga with a cropped choli and dupatta. It has a timeless appeal just like Madhuri Dixit’s purple lehenga in Hum Aapke Hain Koun. For a contemporary look, try an A-line lehenga like Anushka Sharma’s Sabyasachi creation. Sharara lehengas, cape lehengas, and panelled lehengas are also popular Bollywood-inspired options. Make sure you select the lehenga style that flatters your body type.
Pick a Vibrant Color
Vibrant hues are a trademark of Bollywood bridal lehengas. Opt for regal colors like red, pink, and orange or rich royal shades such as purple, emerald, and wine maroon. Intense colors look beautiful on camera and in wedding photos. You can also choose a color that matches your complexion well. Deepika Padukone’s red Sabyasachi lehenga is the perfect example of traditional Indian bridalwear.
Pay Attention to Fabric and Embroidery
The fabric and embroidery of your lehenga will make all the difference. Premium fabrics like silk, brocade, velvet, chanderi, benarasi silk will give a rich look. Handmade embroidery in zardozi, nakshi, kundan, pearls and sequins will add glamour. Floral, vines, paisleys are classic Bollywood embroidery motifs. Check out Katrina Kaif’s lehenga in Jab Tak Hai Jaan featuring Swarovski crystals and pearls embroidery.
Accessorize like a Diva
Complete your Bollywood bridal look with statement jewelry. From matha patti to nath, elegant jhumkas to choker necklace – go for jewelry that makes a style statement. Add a pretty potli bag and juttis embroidered with kundan, stones and sequins. Don’t forget the paasa or kalire for that perfect dulhan look. Take style cues from Aishwarya Rai’s opulent gold and polki jewelry.
Flaunt the Dupatta
While you want the lehenga to be the highlight, don’t underestimate the power of the dupatta. Drape it elegantly over your head, take dupatta photos or have your partner wrap it around you for a romantic moment. Embellished dupattas with borders and zari work look extra special. Learn some cool dupatta poses from Sonam Kapoor’s bridal looks.
Wear Fresh Floral Jewelry
Floral jewelry and gajras are integral parts of Indian bridal wear. Wear one on your bun or braid instead of regular hair accessories. Flaunt kaleeras on your wrists or attach them to your choli or lehenga. Fresh mogra flowers add a sweet touch while marigold strands make a bold bridal statement. Deepika’s floral choker in her wedding saree is perfect for a modern bride.
Get Your Makeup and Hair Done Professionally
With the gorgeous outfit, dazzling jewelry and dreamy dupatta in place, complete the look with professional makeup and hairdo. Get your makeup done by an expert Bollywood bridal makeup artist. Opt for a glamorous hairstyle like side-swept curls or a floral bun with gajra. Hire a hair stylist to help you get picture-perfect hair. Go for bold eyes or red lips to let your beauty shine through.
Strike Dramatic Poses
What’s a Bollywood bride without her dance moves? Pose like a true filmy bride in your lehenga with dramatic expressions. Twist, twirl and spin to make the lehenga flare like a flower in bloom. Throw your dupatta in the air for a fun shot or pose coyly with the pallu covering your face. Pout, smile or give a cold stare – play with expressions to get a dreamy Bollywood bride photoshoot.