Unusual SUSPECTS

In your quest to curate a wedding wardrobe that’s eclectic in shades and silhouettes, you may have become familiar with lehenga fatigue and find yourself craving an alternative. Shararas to saris, there are ample options for the sartorially-savvy bride to indulge in some crossover couture. Here, Khush gives you bookmark-worthy Indian wear interludes that’ll provide just the right amount of relief.

- Nupur Sarvaiya

THE SHARARA

Not as OTT as a lehenga and not as fussy as a sari, make way for the sharara. This versatile piece, comprising a kurta + flared pants, exudes a sense of effortlessness that every bride wants to embody. Whether you're having a paredback mehndi or planning to wear a scene-stealing ensemble for your sangeet soirée, a sharara set will make a statement. There are scores of options too, from embroidered numbers like this gorgeous Tamanna Punjabi Kapoor set to sequinned creations.

Pair your sharara pants with a classic kurta or reinvent with a short tunic

THE SARI

When in doubt, surrender to the sari. The six-yard staple has given India a distinct and elegant fashion identity. Purists can go for the classics for the big day—Patola of Patan, Kanjeevaram silks of Tamil Nadu, Benarasi from Varanasi or Paithani from Maharashtra among many others. If you’re looking for options beyond the traditional, KiraKira-friendly, sequinned cocktail drapes will surely catch your fancy for an evening look. Play with tulle, lace and transparency in delicate colours for maximum effect.

Don’t mistake the sari for an archaic institution—this evergreen and extremely versatile garment’s appeal doesn’t just end at its timelessness. You can reinvent the traditional six yards every time you wear it down the road. Try wearing the blouse over the sari, whereas a cropped top is great for long torsos. Update a vintage sari with modern pieces—rely on a statement necklace or brooches. Headed to a destination wedding? Say hello to your new saviour—the pre-draped sari. 100 per cent elegance of a sari and zero fuss of draping, these magic creations slim every shape. Contrast with oldworld accessories.