Tarun Tahiliani On The Biggest Bridal Trends Of The Season

Tarun Tahiliani’s bridal couture is like a whimsical dream weaved into reality. Known for his intricate detailing and fine thread work, the designer adds a modern touch to bridal wear while still keeping the desi aesthetic intact.

On Day 1 of Indian Couture Week 2018, currently taking place in Delhi, Tarun presented his collection In Elysium. The designer’s latest collection of bridal and occasion wear focuses on the concept of weightlessness.

Tarun picked Aditi Rao Hydari as his show stopper. The actress looked like a vision in a shimmering, off-shoulder pink lehenga with a train adorned with bright, embroidered flowers. Post his extravagant show, we caught up with the couturier for a quick chat.

 

Tell us about the collection In Elysium… what inspired it?

In Elysium celebrates the modern Indian goddess. So the mythical paradise of Elysium was recreated through the decadent lightness of our couture and occasion wear. Shimmering florals and weightless drapes were rendered in an ethereal lightness of being. The fine thread work of traditional Indian embroidery formed the canvas for myriad layers of embellishment and drape. Fabrics like tulle and georgette added lightness and enhanced movement. Hand-embroidered Swarovski crystals added the right amount of sparkle to the clothing.

The collection has an innovative crafting of ribbon-twisted organza, chiffon couching, twisted sheer silk, laser-cut textiles, and detailed appliqué. Each panel of the bridal and cocktail lehengas, concept saris, gowns, jackets, and modern saris has been layered with multi-dimensional detailing.

 

What kind of research went into these pieces?

We have made a very conscious shift towards the concept of weightlessness. Having spent almost two years in development, we have mastered a way to achieve the gossamer lightness we’ve been looking for. We are proud of each piece in this collection because we know it is as opulently light and beautiful as we had conceived it to be. To us, it exemplifies the ethereal quality of lightness that we are constantly drawn to, and find is so important to the modern bride of today.

What are the trends brides will take to for the upcoming wedding season?

Wedding wear is all about personal taste, but in recent years there has been a definite shift towards lighter and more structured styles versus a projection of excessiveness. Bridal trends are also moving away from blingy, multi-coloured ensembles to a more sophisticated colour palette.

 

How can these trends be worn?

Inspire yourself, and thereby inspire others. Be fluid. Wear clothes that float and not bog you down. Wear things that you can team up with something else and use again. Have long drapes, be natural, and refined. Do not dress to out dress. Dress to caress yourself. Veils should be light, and float like water-coloured clouds over your head, covering everything yet hiding nothing. Enhance yourself, not drown in your outfits.

Who are the women you love to dress?

I recently dressed Shriya Bhupal for her wedding. It’s not every day we get to see a protégé morph in every way and take flight. Shriya Bhupal started her new chapter in full command and poise. She is young, independent, tasteful, incredibly elegant, and contemporary with her sartorial choices and styling.

Who, according to you, are the biggest style influencers?

It’s difficult to choose one! I think Shilpa Shetty has a lot of poise and oomph, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan represents classical exquisiteness in the traditional way, and how can I leave out Sonam Kapoor Ahuja? All three of them are big style influencers in their own right.

 

Your favourite colour for the season?

An ombre, shaded palette is definitely the way to go this season, and you’ll notice this in my couture collection as well.

What is the one thing you feel can instantly make one look glamorous?

Confidence is definitely that one thing that makes everyone look and feel glamorous.

What is the best fashion secret you ever learned?

Fashion is not about a trend, it’s about individuality! If you truly believe in your emancipation, you should want to look like yourself. That is the true spirit of being modern. Women should wear whatever they are comfortable in, and also select pieces that reflect their personal style and not follow trends blindly.

 

What is next for you?

At the moment, we are looking at expanding the number of stores. In terms of collections, we’re moving back into being more luxury and high-end as opposed to focussing on the economical ready-to-wear segment. We’re also looking at starting two or more verticals with jewellery and accessories. Global expansion is also on the books, and we’re in the midst of finalising the destinations.