All desi girls absolutely agreed when Alia Bhatt's character in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania said, "Main shaadi karoongi toh Kareena waala designer lehenga pehenke karoongi...varna dulhe ko tata bye-bye kardo". Many Indian brides are on the hunt for unique designer lehengas and wedding outfits, and while copies of well-known designers remain popular, there’s a growing demand for original, affordable wedding wear. This has created a massive market for homegrown bridal designers, offering a range of stunning options for every bride. In this guide, Chahat Chaudhary, an Indian-Canadian content creator, introduces you to underrated Indian wedding designers every bride should know. Her expert styling consultations help brides find the perfect outfit that makes them feel confident and beautiful on their special day.
Affordable Bridal Fashion is About Finding the Balance
For many brides, sticking to a budget without sacrificing style is a huge concern. I’ve been there, too—trying to find that perfect outfit that makes you feel like a princess but doesn’t break the bank. Luckily, there are plenty of incredible, affordable options out there! Let me share some of my go-to brands for beautiful, budget-friendly lehengas.
- Cedar and Pine: This brand is all about simple elegance. They offer stunning lehengas that are perfect for intimate weddings or pre-wedding functions.
- Basanti Kapde aur Coffee: I love how this brand brings a fusion of traditional and modern styles. It’s ideal for brides looking for something trendy yet rooted in tradition. Their price range starts from approx. Rs. 30k, making them one of the most affordable.
- Suhino: If you’re after vibrant colours and playful designs, Suhino should definitely be on your radar. They do not have a website currently but are available on Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop and Aza Fashions
- Studio Iris: Another great brand offering affordable bridal pieces without compromising on quality. Their designs are perfect for brides who want something understated yet beautiful.
Last year, a friend of mine was torn between spending big on a designer lehenga or sticking to her budget. She chose a beautiful lehenga from Studio Iris, and it looked so amazing, you’d never guess it was affordable! It’s all about finding the right brand that fits both your style and your budget.
The Splurge-Worthy Luxury Bridal Designers
Of course, sometimes you want to go all out for your big day, and that’s where luxury designers come in. There’s something magical about wearing a designer piece that’s been crafted with such attention to detail and artistry. Here are some of my favourite luxury bridal designers.
- House of Kotwara: Known for their intricate craftsmanship, their lehengas are perfect for brides who want a regal, traditional look.
- Mrunalini Rao: Her designs have a modern, feminine touch that’s perfect for today’s bride. Think flowy silhouettes and intricate embroidery!
- AR by Rhea Kapoor: This label combines bold, contemporary designs with traditional bridal elements. It’s ideal for brides who want to make a statement.
- Tuhina Srivastava: For brides who appreciate clean lines and minimalist elegance, Tuhina’s designs are a dream come true. They are available on Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop and Aza Fashions.
Versatile Bridal Wear for Every Occasion
While your wedding day is the main event, let’s not forget about the other important functions—mehendi, sangeet, reception! Having outfits that can easily transition from one function to another without compromising on style is key. This is where versatile brands come in handy. Some designers that specialise in versatile bridal wear include.
- Frontier Raas: Known for their ability to create pieces that work beautifully for both daytime and evening events.
- Sue Mue: This brand offers designs that can easily be styled differently for various functions, making them super versatile.
- Aman Takyar & Liz Paul: Both of these designers have collections that range from heavily embellished to more understated designs, perfect for different events in your wedding lineup.
- Label Sanya Gulati: Her pieces are known for their unique flair, blending traditional bridal elements with modern cuts and fabrics.
A close friend of mine wore an Aman Takyar lehenga for her reception and a less ornate Liz Paul piece for her mehendi. She loved how both outfits reflected her personal style while still fitting perfectly with the event’s vibe. The key is finding outfits that can be re-worn or styled differently for future occasions!
Whether you’re looking to save or splurge, there’s something for every bride in today’s fashion landscape. From the affordable elegance of Studio Iris to the luxurious artistry of House of Kotwara, the options are endless.