Fashion

Bridal Perfection Simplified- Neeta Lullas Styling Tips

Step into the world of enchantment and passion with Neeta Lulla’s latest masterpiece, Vrindavan Symphony. Renowned for her innate ability to weave tales of love through her designs, Neeta Lulla has once again surpassed all expectations, leaving us in awe. Since 2016, Vrindavan Symphony has been thriving, with its inaugural photoshoot featuring Pooja Hedge. Inspired by the eternal romance of Radha and Krishna, this collection will transport you to a realm of magic, where music, flowers, and the mesmerizing ambience of Vrindavan converge in perfect harmony. Neeta Lulla, a true romanticist at heart, has poured her soul into every intricate detail of this collection. Surabhi Goel gets an exclusive look at Neeta Lulla’s new bridal collection while the designer imparts her wisdom on wedding style.

What inspired your latest collection, Vrindavan Symphony, and for what occasions are these outfits perfect?

Vrindavan Symphony is an embodiment of my philosophy, intertwining love, sensuality, and timeless elegance. The epitome of happiness, love, and romance between Krishna and Radha in Vrindavan, depicted through dance and folklore, serves as the foundation for this collection. Through Vrindavan Symphony, I aim to capture the essence of their eternal love and bring it to life through the medium of fashion. The collection effortlessly combines the essence of romance with flowing fabrics, delicate pastel hues, and alluring ensembles. Stealing the spotlight are captivating gowns, skirts, and jackets adorned in rich shades, making them a perfect choice for resort wear or a radiant bride’s special day or for post-bridal functions like sangeet, mehndi, or cocktail night.

What are some key factors that brides should keep in mind when choosing their wedding trousseau?

As a designer, when it comes to a bride-to-be shopping for her trousseau, I believe it’s essential to prioritize timeless pieces and versatile jewellery. The key is to select classic items that can be worn beyond the wedding day and easily incorporated into her everyday wardrobe. These pieces should have the ability to be styled differently, offering a distinct look with various garments. For instance, investing in classic jewellery allows for multiple outfit pairings, extending its wear beyond the wedding ensemble. In fact, I personally have repurposed embroidery from my bridal lehenga, transferring it onto another fabric, which took around three months to accomplish.

What are some of the latest wedding fashion trends that brides should consider?

When it comes to selecting bridal attire, the latest fashion trends are not of utmost importance. Brides nowadays prefer outfits that they can cherish for a lifetime and wear on multiple occasions. Comfort plays a significant role alongside aesthetics. Ultimately, the choice of bridal attire is a personal decision for each bride, allowing her the freedom to design it according to her preferred style and colour. The most crucial factor is how confident she feels while carrying herself in that outfit.

Can you give some tips on choosing the perfect wedding outfit for a bride based on her body type?

When choosing the perfect wedding outfit based on your body type, it’s important to consider the silhouette that flatters you. Opt for a style in which you feel comfortable and have received compliments in the past. For top-heavy brides, a long deep neckline with a low waist long skirt can create a balanced look. Hourglass figures look stunning in A-line lehengas, while bottom-heavy brides can rock a high-waist lehenga to highlight their curves. Ultimately, choose what makes you feel confident and consult with a trusted designer or stylist for personalized advice.

What are some popular colour palettes or combinations that you recommend for bridal outfits this 2023?

When it comes to popular colour palettes for bridal outfits in 2023, I recommend considering classic red, ivory, copper, gold and rose gold. These colours are currently trending and can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your wedding ensemble. Red is a timeless choice that symbolizes love and passion, while ivory exudes a sense of purity and grace. Copper and gold tones bring warmth and richness, while rose gold adds a hint of softness and femininity. These colour combinations are sure to make a statement and create a stunning visual impact on your special day.

Can you share some insights on accessorizing bridal outfits for a complete and balanced look?

Firstly, consider mixing and matching different accessories to create a unique and personalized style. Experiment with various pieces and styles to give your outfit a fresh look each time you wear it, as long as you feel comfortable in them.

One essential accessory is a perfect Maang Tikka that suits your forehead and complements your overall outfit. It adds a touch of elegance and tradition to your bridal look.
When choosing wedding shoes, prioritize comfort over excessive embellishments. Opt for comfortable footwear that allows you to walk and move with ease throughout the day, ensuring your comfort is not compromised.
Belts are a trendy accessory that can enhance your waistline and add definition to your silhouette. Consider incorporating a stylish belt that complements your outfit and helps achieve a more balanced look.
Don’t forget about the accessories for your hands. Bangles and large rings are prominent accessories that can beautifully complement your bridal outfit. Ensure they match and coordinate with your overall ensemble, creating a harmonious and cohesive look.

The key is to choose accessories that enhance your bridal outfit while reflecting your personal style. Strive for a balanced and complete look that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.

With destination weddings becoming more popular, what kind of outfits do you suggest for brides getting married in different settings (beach, mountains, etc.)?

For beach weddings, muted shades and calming hues work wonderfully. Opt for bridal dresses in colours that complement the beach environment. Additionally, choose fabrics that are flowy and lightweight, allowing you to move comfortably in the beach breeze.

For weddings in mountainous regions, darker-shaded bridal outfits are a great choice. These colours not only keep you warm in chilly temperatures but also help you stand out against the backdrop of the mountains. Consider fabrics that provide warmth while maintaining an elegant and stylish look.

When it comes to garden destinations with neutral and breezy temperatures, vibrant shades are ideal. Choosing a vibrant bridal dress not only enhances your aesthetic appeal but also has a psychological impact by boosting your mood. It helps you embrace the joyful atmosphere of your destination wedding and keeps any cold feet at bay.

Can you share some do’s and don’ts for brides when it comes to selecting their wedding outfits?

When it comes to selecting wedding outfits, there are several do’s and don’ts that brides should keep in mind. Here are some key tips:

Choose your jewellery before selecting your outfit. This allows you to coordinate your accessories with your dress seamlessly.
Look at your most flattering colours and select your outfit accordingly. Avoid choosing a dress based solely on how it looks on a hanger. Opt for colours that enhance your natural beauty and make you feel confident.
Opt for classic cuts and styles. Classic designs have timeless appeal and can be worn even after the wedding day, adding to their wearability and versatility.
Pick shoes with minimalistic or no embroidery. This ensures that you can move comfortably without getting caught up in the layers of your outfit.
Consider a classic hairstyle that enhances your overall look. Avoid experimenting with new hairstyles or makeup on your wedding day to avoid any unexpected surprises

What are your thoughts on sustainable and eco-friendly wedding fashion, and how can brides incorporate these principles into their outfits?

I believe sustainable and eco-friendly wedding fashion is a wonderful approach that brides can embrace. When it comes to bridal outfits, it’s important to select something that can be enjoyed and worn beyond the wedding day. Sustainability is about creating pieces that have longevity and can be cherished for years to come. Opt for timeless designs with classic styles that won’t go out of fashion. This ensures that your outfit remains relevant and wearable in the future, reducing the need for frequent updates.

Instead of letting your bridal outfit gather dust in your closet, explore options for repurposing it. You can transform it into a different ensemble or reuse certain elements in other garments or accessories.

What are some common mistakes brides make when it comes to choosing their wedding attire, and how can they avoid them?

Avoid choosing your outfit before selecting the jewellery; instead, start by choosing your jewellery and then find an outfit that complements it.
Don’t succumb to external pressure or choose an outfit solely to please family, relatives, or fiancé; prioritize your own preferences and select a dress that resonates with your personal style and makes you feel confident.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, brides can make more informed decisions when choosing their wedding attire. Trust your instincts, prioritize your own preferences, and surround yourself with supportive loved ones who respect your choices. Ultimately, selecting a bridal outfit that reflects your style and makes you feel beautiful will ensure a memorable and joyful wedding experience.

Quick takes.

Reel screen vs Real brides:

Both reel screen and real brides present their own challenges, each in their own unique ways.

Perfect Pre-wedding outfit:

An ideal pre-wedding outfit can be a stunning saree or an elegant Anarkali, as it’s all about exuding grace and feeling absolutely stunning.

Your favourite Bollywood bride?

All Bollywood brides have their own unique elegance and distinctive styles, making it difficult for me to choose just one. Each bride brings something different to the table, making them all memorable in their own way.

Which celebrity do you enjoy styling the most?

When it comes to styling celebrities, I particularly enjoy working with Kangana Ranaut. Her bold attitude and ability to carry outfits with great confidence make the styling process a delightful experience.

July 28, 2023

Gold Is Back: Why Classic Jewellery Is Regaining Its Shine in 2026

For the past decade, the jewellery industry has seen waves of change. Artificial jewellery, minimalist designs, and the rapid rise of lab-grown diamonds have transformed consumer preferences, especially among younger buyers looking for affordable luxury. Yet in 2026, gold jewellery is quietly reclaiming its throne. From weddings to everyday fashion and even men’s accessories, gold is experiencing a powerful resurgence not just as ornamentation, but as a trusted investment. The Investment Factor One of the biggest reasons for gold jewellery’s comeback is simple: stability. While diamonds and lab-grown alternatives have gained popularity due to affordability, they often lack strong resale value. Gold, on the other hand, remains a tangible asset that can be sold, exchanged, or passed down generations. This financial security has made gold increasingly attractive to modern buyers who want jewellery that doubles as an investment. During recent wedding seasons in India, jewellers have reported rising demand for plain gold jewellery in 22K, 18K and 14K forms as buyers prioritise long-term value over heavily diamond-studded pieces. With gold prices steadily climbing in recent years, many consumers now view gold jewellery as a form of wearable wealth something that carries emotional significance while also retaining monetary value. Celebrity Influence and the Wedding Effect Celebrity culture continues to play a major role in shaping jewellery trends. A recent example is the high-profile wedding of actors Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, which sparked widespread discussion about heritage jewellery. The couple’s wedding looks prominently featured elaborate handcrafted gold pieces inspired by South Indian temple architecture. Rashmika reportedly wore eleven pieces of traditional gold jewellery, while Vijay made headlines for embracing bold groom jewellery including layered necklaces, ear studs, cuffs and other royal-inspired ornaments. Their wedding highlighted something significant: gold jewellery is no longer just for brides. Men Are Embracing Jewellery Again Historically,

Fashion

Alfiya Karim Khan: Mumbai YouTuber Redefining Modest Fashion and Digital Influence

Alfiya Karim Khan grew up in Mumbai in a family where education was non-negotiable, and ambition was encouraged, so long as it followed a conventional path. Academically strong, medicine seemed almost predetermined for her. But internally, she felt drawn elsewhere. “Deep down, I always knew my life did not belong in a hospital corridor,” she says. “It belonged in the creative industry.” Choosing to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media instead of medicine was met with hesitation and doubt. Coming from a background where most women were financially dependent, she had rarely seen female entrepreneurship firsthand. That absence became fuel. “Every time someone questioned whether content creation was serious, it pushed me to take it more seriously,” she reflects. What began quietly in her bedroom evolved into financial independence and professional stability. Today, her work represents more than a career; it symbolises “choosing conviction over comfort.” A Cultural Voice in Modest Fashion Alfiya identifies as a digital entrepreneur and a cultural voice within the modest fashion space. A decade ago, the online fashion landscape felt misaligned with her personal style. “I did not want to shape-shift just to belong,” she explains. “I decided to build around my authenticity instead of bending away from it.” Over the past 10 years, she has collaborated with global and legacy brands, been recognised among Forbes’ Top 100 Digital Stars, and represented modest fashion at Paris Couture Week. For her, these milestones represent more than visibility; they signal representation. “This is not just fashion content,” she says. “It is about showing that ambition and values can coexist.” Reinterpreting, Not Rejecting At its core, her work reinterprets mainstream fashion through a modest lens. Rather than rejecting trends, she modifies them, layering strategically and reshaping silhouettes. “Fashion does not have to be abandoned to align with

Fashion

Tiara Dhody: Inspired by Heritage, Driven by Design

Tiara Dhody is a Mumbai-based founder and the creative force behind Treasures by Tiara. She studied at Cathedral and John Connon School, the United World College in Singapore, and later at Sarah Lawrence College, experiences that shaped her global perspective and independent thinking. Growing up in a household where fashion and design were part of everyday conversation, she was naturally immersed in aesthetics. Influenced by her mother, Queenie Dhody, and Raja Dhody, she absorbed a visual language early on. Yet, she credits her broader worldview to quieter influences. “Beyond formal education, I feel most shaped by the books I read, the films I watch, the places I travel to, and the people I surround myself with,” she says. “All of it quietly filters into my work.” Jewellery as Intimate Expression Tiara has chosen the path of self-expression, and for her, jewellery is one of the most intimate mediums through which to access it. “It’s something you can wear, feel, and move with; it becomes part of your story,” she explains. She also describes a more intangible element: “There’s something cosmic about it, the way certain pieces seem to find you at the right time.” In India, jewellery carries memory. It is passed down, inherited, gifted, layered with sentiment and history. That cultural weight deeply informs her design philosophy. “What sets my work apart is the balance between meaning and wearability,” she notes. The pieces are expressive without being loud, crafted to feel personal and enduring rather than purely ornamental. Many associate her designs with strong feminine energy, detailed craftsmanship, and jewellery that feels lived-in rather than showcased. Designed to Be Lived In Treasures by Tiara approaches jewellery differently. It is not created to be stored away for weddings or rare occasions; it is designed to be worn daily. “The idea

Fashion

Fashion Trends 2026 for India

As India’s fashion ecosystem matures at the intersection of culture, technology, and sustainability, 2026 is poised to be a defining year. Below is a structured outlook on the key fashion trends expected to shape India this year… Sustainable Fashion Becomes the Default, Not the Differentiator By 2026, sustainability will no longer be a niche or premium positioning in India—it will be an expectation. Materials: Increased adoption of organic cotton, bamboo blends, banana fibre, hemp, and recycled polyester. Practices: Circular fashion models—resale, repair, and upcycling, and rental— gain mainstream traction. Consumer mindset: Shoppers demand transparency around sourcing, labour practices, and carbon footprint. Brands that fail to integrate sustainability at the core level risk losing relevance, particularly among Gen Z and urban millennials. Indian Craft Revival with a Modern Lens Indian fashion in 2026 doesn’t abandon tradition; it reinvents it: Handloom fabrics and artisanal textiles such as khadi, chanderi, and bandhani are being updated with modern cuts and silhouettes. Ethnic pieces like sharara and gharara bottoms return with drama and movement, balanced by shorter kurtas or attached cape drapes. Indo-western blends—co-ord sets, dhoti pants with crop tops, and sari gowns—continue to appeal to younger gen. This trend reflects India’s fashion duality: honouring heritage while embracing global styling sensibilities. Fluid Fashion and Gender-Inclusive Design Gender boundaries in Indian fashion continue to dissolve, becoming more visible and commercially viable in 2027 Silhouettes: Kurta dresses, dhoti pants, oversized shirts, co-ord sets, and draped forms designed without gender labels. Retail evolution: Gender-neutral sections in both online and offline stores. Cultural impact: Particularly strong among urban youth and creative professionals. This shift reflects broader social acceptance and a move toward personal expression over conformity. Statement Accessories and Maximalist Flourishes While minimalism remains influential, accessories in 2027 are loud and expressive: Brooches, once relegated to formals, have made