Rida Tharana is not done with quiet luxury

If quiet luxury had a desi wedding equivalent, Rida Tharana would be front row in a handwoven silk sari, armed with a safety pin and the world’s most reliable power bank. Known for her calm, classic, and clutter-free aesthetic, the Bengaluru-based creator doesn’t just dress for the ’gram—she dresses for the moment. Whether she’s in a mirror-work suit or an easy-to-dance-in lehenga, her wedding guest style is rooted in comfort, ease, and meaningful intention. She supports homegrown labels. She experiments within the theme. And even when the dress code calls for high-glam, Tharana finds a way to make it feel effortless and entirely her own.

In this edition of Wedding Hopper Diaries, she shares her go-to looks, favourite finds, and why heels may be the real villain of shaadi season.

Wedding guest style: “Classic.”

Dressing for a dress code: “Even if there’s a dress code, I feel like you can still experiment with the style. Everyone has their own essence, so while you follow the theme, add your own twist—through the fit, jewellery, or accessories. That little personal touch makes all the difference.”

Wedding guest hack: “For me, being comfortable is key—especially since I’m usually running around helping close friends or family during weddings!”

Favourite wedding looks:

Look 1: “A lehenga. It instantly tells people you’re here for the celebration. It’s festive, flattering, and just screams glam.”

Look 2: “A sari is always a timeless choice. It’s that classic elegance you can never go wrong with—so graceful and put-together.”

Look 3: “A beautifully embroidered suit—whether it’s a sharara or gharara style—it adds a touch of charm while keeping things comfortable.”

Go-to designers: “I usually try to source from small businesses and local designers I know. They honestly do such a great job, and I love that I get to showcase their work too. There’s one girl I collaborated with years ago—she had just started her label, and to this day, I still go back to her for lehengas because they’re so simple, beautiful, and easy to wear. I also love brands like Clothing by Lea—their outfits have such a lovely modern touch. And of course, for saris, I stick to classics like Nalli, which is my and my mum’s go-to. I do my best to support local brands and experiment with their ideas and designs!”

Won’t leave home without: “Lipstick and lip balm.”

In my clutch: “Power bank!”

Wedding wardrobe picks: “My friends are from different cultures and backgrounds, so each wedding brings its own vibe—and I love experimenting with that. I usually stick to my go-to pieces like a sari or lehenga, but I play with colours, styles, and jewellery depending on the theme or location.”

Wedding dressing ick: “I have a love-hate relationship with heels. They instantly elevate a look, no doubt—but running around in them or wearing them all day is a challenge.”

Favourite wedding moment: “There’s something so beautiful about being part of someone’s big day. Watching your favourite people get married? Nothing beats that.”

Next wedding destination: “I was actually supposed to attend a wedding but had to fly out for work, so I missed it. But I do have a few weddings lined up this year—and I’m so excited.”

Pro tip: “Carry a safety pin. Always.”