Of Indian origin, the lehenga has a rich history that dates back centuries. It has gone through multiple changes over time and is now chosen by women other than the bride herself. It has also transcended cultural boundaries to become a global fashion statement. We’ve seen Sonam Kapoor and Sara Ali Khan make lehengas for a red carpet look at the Cannes Festival. As an attire that is deeply ingrained in cultural traditions, it is an ideal choice for a multitude of celebrations and events. From grand weddings to festive celebrations and even red carpet events, the lehenga has cemented its place as a versatile and timeless outfit, adorning women with an aura of splendor that exudes sheer majesty. We’ve curated a list of 5 types of lehengas that will help you achieve your lehenga dream.
Classic Embroidered Lehenga
With its roots in the royal courts, the lehenga was initially worn by queens and princesses, making it the epitome of aristocracy. The classic embroidered lehenga is a true reflection of this heritage. Adorned with intricate threadwork, zari, mirror embellishments, and beadwork, this style beautifully captures the essence of Indian craftsmanship. It features vibrant colours like reds, blues, and rich greens, and timeless motifs like peacocks, florals, and paisleys. They can be monochromatic or have contrasting blouses with a lehenga skirt and dupatta. These exude an air of luxury and can be worn at weddings, engagement ceremonies, or festivals where you’re the main character. The International Film Festival Awards saw the adornment of these women lehengas in bright red and shades of white with gold and silver accents.
Contemporary Fusion Lehenga
While the traditional women lehengas continues to enamour, new styles have also taken center stage. A modern adaptation that blends Indian aesthetics with global influences, offering a fresh perspective on this age-old ensemble. With innovative cuts, abstract patterns, geometric shapes, asymmetrical hemlines, three-dimensional fabrics, structural innovations, and unconventional fabrics, the contemporary fusion lehenga appeals to bold and fashion-forward women. Elements like ruffles, pant-style, bell-sleeves, and high slits have given it a modern twist. Many Bollywood celebrities have been seen rocking this kind of lehenga. Be it a destination wedding or a chic cocktail party, this style is sure to turn heads and make a style statement. Other than ethnic events, these women lehengas can also become a part of evening parties where you want to make a statement and stand out from the crowd. Make sure you wear understated jewellery along with this to let your lehenga be in the limelight.
Florals and Pastels in Lehenga
For those seeking a softer and more delicate look, the floral pastel women lehengas stands as the perfect choice. Inspired by the beauty of nature, this style often features dreamy, watercolour-like prints and subtle embroidery, also sometimes, neon embellishments in sequins, cloth patches and chunky glitter. Featured by lightweight fabrics like georgette or organza, it creates a more fluid and relaxed appearance. The colours sway towards gentle pastel shades like blush pink, mint green, champagne silver and powder blue, evoking a sense of ethereal charm. You can pair this with statement accessories like pop-coloured earrings with tassels, beads or cowrie shells. Or a compact handbag such as a potli or a clutch with hangings all over. Accessorising correctly will elevate your fit as well as tie the whole look together. The floral pastel lehenga infuses femininity and romance, ideal for daytime events, garden weddings and spring celebrations. Summer weddings and outdoor weddings will not be complete without this beautiful and light lehenga.
Regal Velvet Lehenga
When the occasion demands grandeur and opulence, there’s no match for the regal velvet women lehengas. It speaks luxury, and plush and has a majestic sheen, coming in velvet or brocade which oozes out an air of sophistication like no other. The intricate embellishments on this style often showcase gold and silver zari work, which brings forth an aura of royalty that is fit for the queens of the modern era. Deep jewel tones like emerald green, royal blue, and luscious maroon complete the regal look, which makes it an ideal choice for winter weddings and extravagant festivities. You can layer with jackets and capes, or pick a full-sleeved lehenga with detailed work on the arms. Layered lehengas are also a great choice to suit such occasions, keeping you from cold while also adding dimension to your outfit. There is also a big room to play with the layers of the lehenga such as opting for a different coloured layer underneath, or something with texture. You can also opt for a layer of net in the same colour or a different one, on top of the velvet skirt. These tips make your outfit appear to be heavier and add focus to the details. Pair your fit with heavy ornaments like chandelier earrings with a matching necklace, or a chunky bracelet with tower jhumkas.
Glamorous Sequin Lehenga
For those who love to sparkle and shine, the glamorous sequin women lehengas offers the perfect dose of glitz and glam. With an abundance of shimmering sequins and beads, this style ensures you’ll be the centre of attention at any soirée. The sequins catch the light, creating a beautiful play of reflections that will make you feel like a walking star. There are variations in this such as the ombre effect, reversible sequins and floral prints which make this lehenga even more desired. Designer pieces by Manish Malhotra often showcase this style making it his signature. You can style this with jewellery containing coloured stones or light shimmer, and rings and necklaces studded with tiny diamonds. From glamorous evening events, and cocktail parties to dazzling New Year’s parties, the sequin lehenga is the essence of show-stopping glamour. This is your cue to add one of these to your wedding wardrobe this season.
Women Lehengas are a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, of opulence and simplicity, and of regal elegance and contemporary charm. So, the next time you seek an outfit, look no further than the allure of the lehenga.
