One of the most significant aspects of your wedding planning is putting together your bridal trousseau. If you have been eyeing Katrina Kaif’s trousseau from her engagement, mehendi, and haldi ceremonies, here’s our guide to help you build a designer trousseau from the best Indian couturiers and fashion designers who are masters in their craft to ensure you look as stunning for every occasion as the gorgeous #VicKat bride did.
From what you're going to wear at your various wedding functions to those key pieces that'll see you through occasions in the years to come, the decisions can be rather mind-boggling. So, we've handpicked items for every girl’s dream trousseau. From lehengas to resort wear, our list promises to have you covered whether it's your wedding function or a holiday. Read on and screenshot away!
1. Lehenga by Sabyasachi
He's the granddaddy of Indian weddings and a dream trousseau is incomplete without a creation by Sabyasachi Mukherjee as proved by our Bollywood celeb brides such as Katrina, Anushka, Deepika, Priyanka, Bipasha, and Patralekhaa. This lehenga from the designer's 2021 collection is the perfect addition for more reasons than one. We love the whimsical touch brought in via the chevron print as well as the multi-functionality of the outfit. A perfect blend of floral and geometric design if you can’t decide which trend you love more. The statement floral hand-embroidered blouse lends itself just as perfectly to the lehenga skirt as to a sari in a complementing solid hue.
2. Sequinned sari by Manish Malhotra
Every Indian bride needs a bit of bling and this sequinned sari by the king of bling aka Manish Malhotra will give you just that. The ruffled detailing along the border adds a touch of contemporary glamour. Pair it with different blouses and experiment with different drapes--and it will take you anywhere from festive season to a cocktail party.
3. Modern sari by Amit Aggarwal
A traditional silhouette in a modern avatar, this edgy sari from Amit Aggarwal's latest Metanoia collection is that statement outfit every trousseau needs. Inspired by the elements, this sheer green structured sari has been embellished with 3D metallic threadwork, making it look almost liquid gold like. If edgy and futuristic is your vibe, we suggest you bookmark this for one of your main wedding functions like the sangeet or reception.
4. Traditional sari by Raw Mango
Every Indian trousseau needs that one traditional piece that's as versatile as it's timeless and this elegant Benarasisaree by Raw Mango just fits the bill. A classic 'Chowkadi' brocade, the sari features an all-over grid pattern highlighted with butas. Incidentally, actor Dia Mirza was seen wearing the same sari in red on her wedding day. This sari is likely to see you through multiple festive and wedding seasons—you can give it a new spin each time by either pairing it with a different blouse or trying a drape variation.
5. Suit set by Anita Dongre
A classic kurta set is another must-have in your wedding trousseau closet. This EkaaAjrakhkurta set inspired by the landscape of Bhuj is a vibrant addition to your trousseau. With its rich shades of red, this set is equal parts bridal and festive. The set also scores on versatility—pair it with chunky silver jewellery and you've got a bohemian look, or pair it with traditional gold jewellery and you’ve got a classic look at hand. You can also try using elements of this ensemble—pair the kurta with a different bottom or use the dupatta with another outfit—the list is endless!
6. Gown by Gaurav Gupta
The modern-day bride definitely needs a gown for her cocktail soiree and designer Gaurav Gupta has umpteen options. This champagne-hued structured gown would fit well in every bridal trousseau wishlist due to its glam factor. Interestingly, whilethe gown itself is structured, its wave-like pattern makes it appear fluid. And with its elaborate embellishments done with sequins and metallic threadwork, this one would work just as well on the red carpet as it would for a reception dinner.
7. Co-ord set with cape by Punit Balana
Not every wedding function requires heavy duty Indian wear. And this is exactly the kind of outfit that you should be bookmarking for smaller occasions like a family get-together or a dinner at home. The easy-breezy co-ord set by Punit Balana features a crop top with delicate resham work. The satin silk pants feature a block print. The ensemble comes with a cape that also has resham work along the borders that make its perfect for a causal day event.
8. Dress by Ritu Kumar
With the many social commitments post wedding, a bride also needs options in western wear. This multi-coloured printed dress is a great addition to your trousseau. It's perfect if you have a dinner planned with friends or are entertaining guests at home. Pair it with a pair of chunky hoops and a gold watch for maximal effect.
9. Kaftan by Mandira Wirk
Every bride needs some downtime—and what better outfit for it than a breezy kaftan? This elegant kaftan by Mandira Wirk will do just the trick. Style it with tribal jewellery and you have a bohemian party-ready look; wear it over your swimwear and you have a cover-up at the beach, or simply throw it on as you lounge about between functions at a wedding.
10. Bikini and swim skirt by Shivan and Narresh
All that talk of lounging around no doubt brings us to the honeymoon. This Shivan and Narresh bikini comes with a ruched high-waisted skirt that can be worn over your bikini bottom. For the days, when you just want to lounge around by the beach, this is your best bet.