The new Indian bride is the modern goddess that envisions her wedding as a special extension of her personality. She wants intimate occasions with unique décor, lush colours and candid memories to treasure for life. Every sliver of personalisation is visible, be it in the table settings, invitations, keepsakes, and her sartorial choices. She knows her loved ones are having a good time – they’re relaxing, dancing, and having fun – and so is she. And about time too!
“Bloom captures the metamorphosis of the Indian bride with a synthesis of different cultures, a reflection of today’s generation. Bloom represents the delicate confluence of artistic traditions and the pragmatism of the times we live in. And of course, flowers,” says designer, Tarun Tahiliani.
More than 80 pieces spanning bridal couture, occasion and festive wear heralded the coming together of technique, craftsmanship and innovation: Lightweight lehengas, shararas, peplum blouses, concept saris, structured drapes, anarkalis and fusion-style jumpsuits exude pure celebration. Contemporary occasion wear for those intimate pre-weddings plays with chikankaari, mukaish embroidery and kanjeevaram, in light, new avatars for the stylish bride. When it comes to couture, contoured construction, patterns and unique fabrics merge to make the garment feel like second skin, sensually moulded to shape every curve, and yet, allow the freedom and comfort to dance the night away.
In what was probably a first ever at any India Couture Week show, Tarun broke from tradition and closed the show with an anonymous ‘non-show-stopper-show-stopper’ who donned a simple but stunning ‘work in progress’ white tulle gown paired with a dainty net mask. The mask covers the face of the person with the intent to emphasise the outfit and have it make a statement about its own identity and that of the craft and workmanship that has gone into its making. The idea behind this was to shine a bright spotlight on the garments, that were truly the show-stoppers for the evening.
As seen in the collection, the new bride steals the show in soft pastels of peach, dusty rose, blush pink, coral, teal, vintage gold and aqua. For her pre-wedding functions and cocktails, she chooses from a rich palette of electric blue, deep violet and plum. For the mehendi and poojas, deep, earthy Indian hues are what she selects. Diverse embroidery styles – from Kashmir-inspired Kashida, a fine zari work used around prints, Jammevar and Resham thread embroidery makes sure the bride is not weighed down by her outfit. Floral motifs combine with French knots, tulle, jaali burned in the fabric, lace, and ombré beading to bring a glamorous exquisiteness and drama to each piece. Fluffs of whimsical resham-crystal-baadla, sparkling Swarovski crystals adorn customized crinolines for each lehenga.
Juxtaposing iconic European construction with classic Indian styles and embroideries, the new collection exemplifies an ‘India Modern’ aesthetic. In the structured lightness of every drape is the embodiment of a new voice of tradition. One that proudly carries a rich heritage into a modern way of life.
“We’ve worked with Swarovski since the 90’s. This successful long-term association over the years has witnessed some of the most iconic, luxurious and memorable creations made with crystals from Swarovski. We Indians love the winking light, the luminescence and sparkle of a diamond, especially for weddings. And so, it is an honour once again to collaborate with Swarovski to create magical garments using traditional Indian techniques.” says Tahiliani on his association with Swarovski.
Commenting on the collection, Vivek Ramabhadran – Vice President, Asia South and Africa Region, Swarovski Professional, says, “With an ever-growing presence in India, Swarovski continues to strengthen its long-term creative collaborations with a focused approach towards fashion couture. We value our partnership with Tarun Tahiliani and over the years have worked closely with him to give vision to his creative design brilliance. One of the luminaries of Indian fashion, Tarun has always outdone his previous collections and created illustrious styles, making them even more distinctive with Swarovski crystals. He continues to push the envelope with the Swarovski encrusted BLOOM collection which is the perfect blend of design, creativity and passion in Tarun’s signature style! The grand finale of India Couture Week'19 couldn't have been more spectacular.”
Fine polki and jadau jewellery pieces designed by Paramani Jewels have added that extra panache and glamour to the collection. "For Tarun Tahiliani's ICW'19 collection – Bloom – we at Shri Paramani Jewels have curated special floral patterns in the jewellery design. Lot of other motifs like fish motif and old traditional poppy flower motifs are being used. Precious stones like Burma rubies, rose-cut diamonds with extensive designing traditions have been used to bring out this year’s special range of fine handmade jewellery, also a lot of old Victorian-style jewellery is there in the collection," says Vinay Gupta – Owner, Paramani Jewels.
