Indian weddings are constantly evolving, and the latest way to give your celebrations a more personal touch? Make one of the functions a recreation of your favourite Indian festival—preferably the one that brings all the joy, warmth and playfulness you want at your celebrations: Holi, of course.
Now, this trend might not be entirely new—blogger Masoom Minawala was one of the early adopters with a Holi-themed mehendi way back in 2017—but it’s definitely having a moment right now, especially as couples look to make their weddings more memorable and, of course, ‘Grammable’.
The mehendi is the perfect function to colour outside the lines. The ceremony usually comes with its own set of traditional games that you can build on, and it offers a more intimate setting where family members and friends can get to know each other before the big wedding day. Add to that an open-air venue, cocktails, dhol beats, and now, piles of coloured powder, baskets brimming with flower petals, and maybe even a few water guns—and you’ve got a truly immersive celebration. But what does one wear to a function where you want to look fuss-free yet festive? Read on for all the inspiration you need.
New-age ghararas
Our current crop of ‘It’ girls love a good gharara—just look at Alia Bhatt in designer Anushka Khanna or Shraddha Kapoor in mocha-toned Anita Dongre. But note that they’re opting for a more contemporary silhouette, featuring a slim-cut kurta and flared bottoms designed to resemble retro trousers—more co-ord set than traditional sharara. Think Ritu Kumar’s vintage version covered in mirrorwork, Aseem Kapoor’s ivory shift dress that’s a mash-up of print and embroidery, and Deep Thee’s more kaftan-like kurta set for those seeking ultimate comfort.
