Skirting THE ISSUE

We love lehengas, period. The whole country loves lehengas. That's why we've picked the season's hottest offerings created by designers across India. Whether it's a wedding, an event, a party or just you wanting to treat yourself to some spectacular fashion, Ashwini Arun Kumar has got you covered

- Ashwini Arun Kumar

In its past life, the lehenga was a humble skirt paired with a blouse that was worn across the country to weddings, with culture-specific personalisations. Over the years, it's changed in the hands of one prolific Indian designer to another - each of whom has subjugated it to edits relevant to their time. Today, while it continues to be the cornerstone of Indian bridal fashion, its purpose has evolved. To simply call it a wedding garment would be wrong, especially when it offers brides the power to unlock their own particular narratives. In this edit, we highlight the best lehenga designs seen this season from some of the leading names in Indian fashion who have redefined bridal style for this generation. Combining their individual design chemistry with the modern-day needs of women - of people to be specific - these contemporary lehengas are statements waiting to be made.

ANITA DONGRE

This wedding lehenga is completely hand painted in the Pichwai style by master artisans whose skills have been passed down for generations (almost 400 years). One of the most expensive lehengas on this list, this predominantly green-and-yellow creation is a labour of love featuring tropical birds and plants, further embellished with sequins and pearls to bring some glamour to the look. The sheer dupatta features sequins embroidered in a lattice design and is a great addition to the graphic top and skirt. One of the first designers to put pockets on bridal lehengas, Anita Dongre has since made it her signature.

TARUN TAHILIANI