Lehengas make timelessly elegant options for Indian weddings and celebrations. But if you feel your look has grown tired or stale, breathes new life into your traditional ensemble with some simple styling tricks. By playing with fabrics, silhouettes and colors, you can easily give your lehenga choli a modern, fashion-forward spin perfect for the new season.
Focus on the Choli Blouse
An easy way to update your lehenga is swapping out the choli blouse for a trendier cut or fabric. For example, try a cropped choli embellished with intricate embroidery, beads or sequins. Or opt for a Victorian-inspired sheer organza or lace blouse, modestly layering it over a camisole or tube top underneath. Bishop and puff sleeve blouses are also on-trend this season.
Incorporate Dramatic Ruches
Ruched fabric adds gorgeous texture and romantic flair. Search for lehengas with ruffled trims along the skirt or pallu. Or pick a dupatta with delicate gathers. For added drama, accessorize with a ruffled bolero jacket or cape. Stick to breezy chiffons, silks and georgettes to emphasize the billowy ruches. Soft pastels also complement this feminine look beautifully.
Play with Unique Silhouettes
Tired of full circular lehengas? Change up the shape. Try the mermaid-style “fish cut” lehenga – fitted tightly from waist to knees, then flaring out. Sharara lehengas have voluminous pants-style bottoms rather than single skirts. Pre-pleated saree lehengas combine the draping of sarees with lehenga fabrics. A-line cuts are universally flattering as well.
Rock Rich Jewel Tones
Skip the expected reds, maroons and golds. Sophisticated jewel tones like sapphire blue, emerald green, rich purple and inky black make stunning alternatives. Deep hues feel luxurious in velvety fabrics like silk, brocade and velvet – perfect for formal events. Contrast with brighter dupattas. Keep jewelry minimal with these scene-stealing rich colors.
Add Stylish Jackets
Many Indian brides are trading traditional dupattas for smart jackets or capes layered over cholis. Embroidered bolero shrugs ending above the waist maintain modesty while showing some skin. Lightweight lace jackets add romantic essence. Or make a very modern statement with a tuxedo-inspired satin cape. Now that you have fresh lehenga inspiration, where should you shop? Here are quick tips for finding that dream outfit:
Shop Online for Selection
Thanks to ecommerce, shopping lehengas online makes finding varied options easier than ever. Reputable sites like Mirraw allow you to filters styles, sizes, fabrics and more to streamline your search process. Read reviews and check return policies.
Visit Local Boutiques for Right Fit
No substitute exists for trying styles on in person. Hit up shops in your community for an informed fit perspective and to feel fabric quality. Don’t be shy negotiating prices either!
Go Custom Made for Perfectly Tailored Pieces
Get an ensemble made just for you through a trusted local tailor or designer. Supply your exact measurements for an immaculate silhouette and personal touches like custom embroidery.
Stay on Trend with Embellished Cholis
Elevated choli blouses with ornate hand embroidery, sequins and beadwork are huge right now. Find a statement choli to build your new wedding lehenga look around for of-the-moment style.
The possibilities feel endless when updating your lehengas – have fun with the process! Don’t just re-wear the same old pieces. With a few easy nips, tucks and accessory swaps, you can refresh your traditional outfits into glamorous modern fashion statements.