The Indian bridal trousseau is not simply limited to dresses and jewelry; it also includes purses, shoes, household items, bed-sheets, table cloths, pillow covers and even kitchen utensils. In short, a trousseau pretty much includes everything that the bride carries to her new home.
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However, things have changed a great deal thanks to modernization. For example, many modern Indian brides are getting professionals to design and customize their clothing items included in the trousseau. Ready- to-wear bridal dresses are also available and one can put together unique combinations with the assistance of friends and relatives.
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The Indian wedding dresses typically include saris, salwaar kameezes, lehengas or ghagra cholis. All of these can be customized to include regional flavors, as India is a large country with different cultures. Naturally, every bride needs to decide upon the type of attire she wants to wear for different ceremonies.
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Of importance is the color of the attire. All Indian weddings are known for their vibrant and rich colors. Deep rooted traditions lay stress on bright colors like reds and maroons which symbolize fertility. Today, however, one does not have to follow these rules compulsorily.
In fact; many brides are choosing to move away from traditions and are wearing bolder styles. Many are opting for pastel shades and metallic tones and undertones in the bridal outfits. Silver and other ice cool shades are also replacing traditional earthy tones and hues. Where, in the past, bridal dresses were embellished with real gold, silver and diamonds, many brides are refusing to wear heavy dresses. Instead, they are opting for nets, transparent fabrics, chiffons, silks and satins as these light materials are easy to wear and carry.
An eclectic mix
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For a judicious mix of bridal trousseau one can opt for Lehengas, saris, Salwar Kameezes, and Ghagra Cholis. There is also a vast choice available in the Indian handlooms and materials which include Paithanis, Banarasis, Kanjeevarams and Bandhni silks. All these regional specialties are known for their elegance and opulence, as well as their hefty price tags. Still, a bride who does not wish to cut any corners in her bridal trousseau simply cannot go wrong when she chooses such an eclectic mix.
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A few ideas…
For the Mehendi/henna ceremony, a bride can opt to wear a sari or a lehenga in deep reds, mauves, wine or ochre shades. Alternatively, one can wear salwar kameeze or anarkali suits having traditional motifs.
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For the Sangeet, the modern brides can choose from Lehengas or Laccha in pastel shades. Such dresses are light-weight and easy to carry, so the bride can let down her hair and dance at these functions.
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For the actual wedding ceremony, a bride can opt for a sari, or a Ghagraa choli in maroon, burgundy, pink, or red. Alternatively one can choose non-conventional colors like blues and greens or sorbet colors like mango, peach etc for a subdued look. These colors can even conform to the theme of the wedding. Additionally, for the reception, one can choose a Lehenga or sari with stunning Zardosi work and gold embroidery.
A bride also needs to wear several jewelry pieces which include necklace, earrings, bangles, bracelets, armlets, anklets, brooches, hair ornaments, rings etc.
Shopping for the bridal trousseau can be an enjoyable, albeit a stressful process. It often begins months in advance. The modern bride, however, has several options at her disposal using which she can make an informed choice in the selection of her trousseau.