Reel vs real

They may have played the blushing bride countless times onscreen in maximalist bridal finery, but unconventional hues, bold beauty choices and demure femininity rule the hearts of these real-life Bollywood brides. 

- HASINA JEELANI

Masterclass in minimalism

If laidback luxury is on your bridal vision board, there’s plenty to fall in love with from Alia Bhatt’s summer 2022 wedding with Ranbir Kapoor. Skipping the usual suspects, the star opted for a classic sari embroidered with tilla work from her go-to couturier, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, which she paired with a handwoven tissue veil. Having often opted for bridal reds onscreen, ivory won her vote for the big day, offering up inspiration as a dress code-defying choice for contemporary brides looking to stand out from the crowd.

In keeping with the intimate nature of the at-home ceremony, the bride prioritised ease of movement by eschewing voluminous lehengas in favour of an organza drape. Against the canvas of the pared-back ensemble, statement jewels instead assumed the spotlight in the form of a maximalist necklace, matha patti, jhumkas and bangles featuring uncut diamonds and hand-strung pearls from the same couturier. With her hair teased into loose waves and nude-toned makeup, minimalists will undoubtedly gravitate towards her portrait of a fuss-free bride.