If you’re dreaming of a royal princess look on your wedding, Anita Dongre‘s latest Collection ‘Dairy of a Rajkumari’ is just what you need to look at! Shop this collection and much more at the upcoming Vogue Wedding Show…
The enchanting Vogue Wedding Show is back to Delhi this August, with the latest wedding collections from all top notch designers, jewelers and more!
And just for our readers, we got talking to none other than Anita Dongre to find out what her latest collection – ‘Diary of a Rajkumari’ is all about…
Brides-to-be are wondering… What’s Anita Dongre’s latest collection ‘Dairy of a Rajkumari’ all about?
A thousand thoughts of love, friendship and lovingly etched memories have come together to create the ‘Diary of a Rajkumari’. The collection speaks about the princess and her best friends’ journey to her wedding day, dressed in rich silks with timeless Mughal motifs.
Celebrating these eternal bonds and timeless friendships, our new bridal collection, features captivating Benarasi saris, gorgeous lehengas and separates, elegant cocktail dresses, hand embroidered jackets and flirty tulle skirts amongst others. Entwining various sentiments of love and care, heritage crafts have been woven in fine silk brocades and rich linens to create beautiful handcrafted pieces; these are further complemented with the finest of Indian embroideries and enchanting motifs.
What is the inspiration behind this collection?
Just how events and stories of the past come together to form what we call history and eternal memories, many silken threads are woven together on a loom to form a weave that narrates the tales of the land and the people it represents; one such weave is the Banarasi weave which is the mainstay of this collection.
The brocades made using pure gold and silver threads have long since been the symbol of opulence. I discovered all of this and a lot more when I visited Banaras and met our gifted craftsmen who still practice this art, handed down to them as heirlooms.
The colors of the season for brides?
Instead of a monotone palette, this season is all about mixing different hues together for a rich, royal look.
The colour palette encompasses deeper and brighter hues such as rich golds, raging reds and pastel shades.
Apart from the traditional reds and pinks, fresh and vibrant hues of gorgeous emerald green, sapphire blue and ivory are some lovely shades to try this season; not only are they fun, celebratory colours, but they also look gorgeous on every skin tone.
Your favorite fabrics and embellishments to watch out for?
I personally like working with light-weight fabrics such as modal, handwoven silks and cottons in Benares which are comfortable and doesn’t weigh you down!
You can also choose from net, organza, pure chiffon, tissue and tulle, that can make you look nothing less than a dream on your big day. Look out for gota patti, zardosi and fringed embellishments in contemporary silhouettes that can create a luxe look fit for royal occasion—and yet is surprisingly light and easy to wear.
The trending cuts and drapes?
Draped saris in light-weight fabrics and gorgeous lehenga skirts are very much in vogue this season.
Dramatic ruffles blouses, skirts and net dupattas can add a fairytale touch to your wedding ensemble. Stunning cape blouses, asymmetrical jackets have also gained popularity this season.
After pastels and florals, what’s the next trend?
Color-blocking is the next big trend this season; think different hues woven together in one lehenga or pairing separates in contrasting yet complementary colour palettes. If you are feeling bold, incorporate the sheer bodice detailing in your ensemble for a look that is part elegant, part risqué.
What’s that one piece of jewelry that a bride must have on her wedding day?
Less is more, especially when it comes to jewellery, so it’s important to stick to one statement piece.
A pair of gorgeous Jadau earring or a timeless silver/Kundan necklace will complement any ensemble wonderfully.
What should grooms be looking out for in your collection?
Grooms today are opting for classic silhouettes with a modern twist. Since menswear is typically more structured, it should be a well-tailored garment.
Our menswear has a subtle detailing that adds an element of modernity within the traditional garments. Whether it’s the details on the buttons, the pocket squares, or the butti print on the inner lining of a bandhgala, there’s always a minimal touch of modernity.
Colors that grooms should experiment with?
Men too are now experimenting with new colors and silhouettes.
Though the classic cream and beige remain timeless favorites, men can also opt for powder blues, dusty roses and deep lilacs when it comes to wedding wear!
What is that one piece of accessory every groom must care for?
A traditional jutti or a mojari with beautiful embroidery can add a beautiful finishing touch to any ensemble.
One suggestion that you would give to the brides and grooms getting married soon!
I personally believe that more than simply following trends, brides should follow their hearts and wear what makes them feel special on their wedding day.
Wear something that compliments your personality and makes you feel comfortable. Keep the jewelry and makeup to a minimal and avoid wearing garments that make you feel uncomfortable.
Speaking of grooms, the key to looking sharp is to know what works well for your body type. Opt for a well-tailored outfit that fits you like a T and doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable in any way.
What is your take on destination weddings and how have you changed your collection to cater to destination weddings?
Destination weddings have become popular and affordable in the recent few years.
Moreover, the exotic locales and the ‘vacation vibe’ adds to the charm and makes for a once-in-lifetime experience!
And while we don’t have a separate collection just for destination weddings, we have a lot of options—be it a fun beach wedding, an intimate wedding in a cruise or a traditional wedding in a palace.
One thing that’s here to stay?
Beautiful bridal gowns are definitely here to stay.
Velvet, Raw Silk, Net or something else… I am confused! What fabric to choose?
That totally depends on the kind of look and wedding theme you are going for!
Fabrics such as velvets, brocades and Benarasi have a rich feel—perfect for a grand royal wedding. On the other hand, net, chiffons, tulles etc. are lighter than the earlier counterparts and are great for fun outdoor and beach weddings.
Online shopping – yay or nay?
It’s advisable not to buy your wedding lehenga online by just looking at it online!
It’s important to try it on first and see how it looks on you. More importantly, you need to touch and experience the fabric and the colours in person. An outfit can look gorgeous on screen but might look totally different otherwise, and vice versa. It’s okay to buy other things like dupatta and other trousseau items online, but not your bridal lehenga!
What’s your take on Wedding Planning Websites & Bloggers?
From providing expert advice on bridal fashion and make-up to having the ‘deets’ on how to navigate the wedding day jitters, these resources have certainly proved their mettle.
I think they are doing a great job and have made wedding planning much easier for the brides-to-be and the family.
A question lots of brides ask – How long before should I order my bridal outfit?
Ideally, you should order your bridal outfit three to four months in advance. This will leave you with enough time for customizations and last-minute alterations.
What according to you is the one fashion faux pas a bride should avoid?
Going overboard with too much jewellery is one fashion faux pas that every bride must avoid on her big day. Choose a statement piece and stick to it!
Many brides want to know how to shortlist their wedding lehenga! What to look at first – color, work or cuts and drapes?
First things first, you need to do your research and shortlist the kind of style or silhouette you are looking for.
Spend time shortlisting outfits that appeal to you. Instead of blindly copying trends, it’s essential to choose a cut that compliments your body type. Everything else (colours, embroideries, drapes) can be taken care of later.
Brides are also confused about how many duppatas they should have, what do you suggest?
A single dupatta is enough to offset your entire look beautifully—especially if you are wearing a statement lehenga.
Moreover, a single dupatta is easier to manage and you will remain at ease throughout the celebrations!
Today’s brides are all about comfort with style! How do you get that with a heavy wedding lehenga?
You don’t. Having said that, Indian women have already deviated from the traditional bridal wear silhouettes; from opting for lehengas and sarees that weighed a lot, brides have moved to choosing lighter outfits that they can move around and dance in.
The collections that are available at all our stores are elegant and versatile—perfect for the modern woman who likes to make a statement without being over the top.
What would your advice be to upcoming designers?
I always say that work hard and be disciplined, because there’s no substitute for hard work.
Don’t we love how Anita Dongre‘s latest collection the ‘Diary of a Rajkumari’, is just what you’d want yourself and your besties to be wearing to your wedding? We’re totally in love… To shop this collection and check out everything else that’s trending this wedding season, make sure you’ve registered for the Vogue Fashion Show passes!
Venue: Taj Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi
Dates: 3-5th August, 2018
Pre-Register for Passes on: https://www.vogue.in/vws-register/
