From corset blouses to metallics, here are the top trends that dominated the India Couture Week runway.
India Couture Week 2024, which recently concluded in New Delhi, was a vibrant celebration of Indian fashion, particularly bridal wear. The event, spanning over eight days and featuring fourteen shows, showcased an array of fashion-forward trends that set the tone for the upcoming wedding season. As the grand finale by designer duo Falguni and Shane Peacock closed the event on July 31, it was evident that this year’s couture week brought bold and innovative trends to the forefront. Here’s a closer look at the five big and bold trends that dominated the runway.
Bridal Corsets
Corsets made a bold return at India Couture Week 2024, not just as part of the bridal ensemble but as a statement piece. Thanks to designers like Tarun Tahiliani and Jayanti Reddy, corsets were reimagined as bridal blouses that fused traditional silhouettes with modern aesthetics. These corset blouses, paired with sarees or lehengas, added a dramatic and sensuous appeal to bridal wear. The trend resonated with a modern, confident bride who is unafraid to experiment with her look while still honoring traditional elements.
Met-Gala Inspired Drama
This year saw the introduction of the “Met-Gala-fication” of Indian bridal wear, where drama was the keyword. Designers embraced high-concept couture with exaggerated silhouettes, ornate headgear, and statement-making accessories. Gaurav Gupta’s collection epitomized this trend with its sculpted details and art-deco-inspired gowns, signaling a shift towards more theatrical and avant-garde bridal fashion. This trend is for brides who want their wedding attire to be as unforgettable as the event itself, combining culture with a sense of high fashion.
Grooms Embrace Drapes
The runway also made it clear that it’s no longer just about the brides; grooms are stepping up their fashion game too. Draping, traditionally associated with bridal wear, has now made its way into menswear. Tarun Tahiliani and Jayanti Reddy showcased sherwanis and bandhgalas accessorized with double dupattas and vibrant silk stoles. This trend not only adds a layer of sophistication to the groom’s look but also allows for a more personalized and regal appearance.
Groom’s Jewellery Goes Bold
In line with the maximalist trends, grooms’ jewelry at India Couture Week 2024 took a bold turn. Elaborate necklaces, bejeweled sehraas, and statement brooches were prominent in the collections of designers like Falguni Shane Peacock and Kunal Rawal. This shift towards bold jewelry reflects a growing desire among grooms to make a statement and match the grandeur of their bridal counterparts.
Metallic Bustiers
Metallic bustiers, previously seen on international runways, significantly impacted India Couture Week. Designers like Gaurav Gupta introduced these edgy pieces into Indian bridal fashion, pairing them with traditional lehengas and sarees. These bustiers, often embellished with intricate detailing and paired with sculpted skirts, added a futuristic touch to the traditional bridal silhouette, catering to the modern bride who seeks a blend of the contemporary and the classic.
India Couture Week 2024 showcased a stunning mix of tradition and innovation, highlighting that Indian bridal fashion is evolving while staying rooted in its cultural heritage. Whether it’s the bold reimagining of corsets, the dramatic Met-Gala-inspired outfits, or the rise of statement jewelry for grooms, this year’s trends promise to make the upcoming wedding season one of the most fashionable yet. As Indian brides and grooms look forward to their big day, these trends will undoubtedly offer them the perfect blend of elegance and flair.