Arushi Mehra brings Y2K cheek to trad style

Arushi Mehra’s take on traditional wedding fashion is anything but expected. Imagine brat summer meets big, fat desi wedding—with a healthy dose of Y2K sass courtesy of Poo from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Scroll through the 30-year-old Delhi-based content creator’s Instagram, and you’ll find a riot of clashing prints, studded bralets, mirrorwork corsets and peplum drama. “Equal parts statement and restraint” is how she sums it up. Add serial-wedding attender into the mix, and her feed is the ultimate fashion mine for your struggling-to-think-of-something-different wedding moodboards. Mehra spills the tricks and tips to nail that irreverent yet traditional, statement yet fun wedding look:

Wedding count: “I’ve been to so many weddings this year I’ve stopped counting—but let’s just say my lehenga collection is now considered checked baggage. I think the final count was around 15. The highlight? My best friend’s South Indian wedding—temple bells ringing at 7am, jasmine in her hair, the works. I also went to my first Gurudwara wedding—peaceful, pared-back, and incredibly soulful.”

Wedding guest vibe: “The only rule? Have fun. Maybe throw in a cheeky, Poo-inspired moment—because if it’s not backless, what’s the point?”

Destination wedding hack: “Always pack a backup outfit—there’s no margin for wardrobe drama when you're miles from home. A shawl is a must after 11pm, and always follow the dress code. The couple’s spent months planning every detail—it’s respectful to match that energy.”

Top fits: Look 1: “This one’s from a local store in Hyderabad, and I paired it with a custom Jayanti Reddy blouse—both from my trousseau. It’s a classic, but I made it my own with layered diamonds, a braid woven with fresh Mogra, a mini bindi, and a crystal potli. Traditional, but with a twist.”

Look 2: “When I found out the wedding was in Ranthambore, I knew I wanted to echo the jungle. This sequin-soaked olive green sari from ITRH, paired with their sculpted blouse, nailed it. Slick bun, bold brows, statement earrings—it felt moody, regal, and a little bit dangerous. One of my all-time faves.”

Look 3: “This strapless, balloon-peplum top with embroidered trousers was made for the sangeet. It had couture-level drama but still felt playful. The pastel florals softened the silhouette, and a choker plus sleek bun tied it all together. Feminine, fearless, and total main character energy.”

Won’t leave home without: “A good mood!”

In my clutch: “Lipstick for touch-ups, Listerine strips for post-biryani breath, and a mini perfume.”

Pro tip: “If your outfit is making the statement, keep the makeup minimal. If you're going bold with beauty, pull your hair back. Let one thing shine.”

Wedding style ick: “I hate that half the prep involves doing laps between my designer, the jeweller, and the dry cleaner.”

Next wedding: “I’m heading to the South of France for my husband’s college friend’s wedding—basically, a real-life Pinterest board. I’m thinking slinky pastel gown with a cowl back, soft waves, and dewy makeup. Footwear? Chic but cobblestone-friendly.”