Husband-wife designer duo Shyamal and Bhumika started their tryst with design in 2000 and launched their label in 2003. Championing Indian embroideries, handwoven fabrics and age-old craft techniques has been the focus of the creations since the very beginning. It is this coupled with a modern outlook that makes them a go-to for millennial Indians with a global lifestyle.
The designers are participating in Aashni + Co Wedding Show for the very first time this year, and are bringing an exclusive preview of their Spring 2018 collection for London brides. “The collection takes inspiration from perennial flowers and their captivating beauty. It boasts a very European feel with chic silhouettes and delicate embroidery finished subtle details, making it ideal for the globetrotting bride,” they explain.
The designers decode the sartorial disposition of the Indian bride ahead of their London stint with A+CO.
How would you describe the modern Indian bride?
The modern Indian bride, like the Shyamal & Bhumika muse, is an independent woman — elegant and sophisticated with global exposure while also valuing her Indian roots regardless of where she lives. She emulates timeless beauty and effortless elegance.
How have you seen her evolve over the years?
The Indian bride has been a traditionalist all along. With global exposure, she has come to appreciate the workmanship created by Indian artisans and the grandeur attached to it. She wants to make a deliberate fashion statement and uses western nuances juxtaposed with Indian aesthetics to create her own identity.
What would go-to bridal looks for key wedding functions be according to you?
Hues of moonlight blue, lapis and pine green, raspberry wine, dahlia red and salmon pink with ochre and amber gold are colours of the season. At the core of every outfit should be an amalgamation of tradition and modernity — global influences mixed with cultural heritage to epitomise subtlety and elegance. Asymmetrical lehengas with stylised blouses and long trailing gowns are trending. Jackets with lehengas are sought-after too. The play of sheer is the most striking feature this season. We see it in chic blouses, artfully embroidered sleeves, tulle capes and sublime jackets.
What is a common inclination you notice in most Indian brides today?
Most Indian brides want traditional elements when it comes to their wedding outfit. They want to experiment with asymmetrical flared gowns and jackets layered over lehengas as well as with ruffled dupattas and sheer separates for pre-wedding functions. Most brides are seeking complete looks, including accessories . Our embroidered minaudières and footwear are always appreciated when putting the whole look together.
What is a common mistakes brides tend to make when curating their wedding looks?
We generally advise brides to not follow trends that may not suit them or make them uncomfortable on your big day. Nothing beats being comfortable and relaxed.
What are must-haves in a bridal trousseau according to you?
Choose pastel colours and intricate yet delicate hand-work for day events. For the more experimental brides, pre-wedding ceremonies are the best time to go offbeat and unorthodox with their wardrobe. However, every bride should have a classic hand-embroidered tulle sari with intricate work and embroidered tulle separates that help style simple outfits. A pair of comfortable embroidered shoes and a beautiful clutch to carry essentials are very important to finish any look.
What are the key looks for the family of the bride and groom this season?
We always like the family to be coordinated with the bride and groom. Complementing ensembles gives a personal touch to the wedding and also ensures that the family is not over powering the bride and groom on their big day.
Buy tickets to the Aashni + Co Wedding Show here.
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