Banarasi silk lehengas have become an increasingly popular choice for modern brides who want to merge tradition with sophistication. Known for their luxurious silk, intricate weaves, and gold or silver brocade work, these lehengas exude a regal charm that’s hard to match. While they carry a deep-rooted heritage, Banarasi silk lehengas also offer endless styling options for brides who want a look that feels both classic and fresh. Here’s a guide to styling Banarasi silk lehengas, blending traditional elegance with a modern twist.
1. Choosing the Perfect Color Palette
Banarasi silk lehengas come in a variety of rich colors that range from vibrant reds and pinks to elegant jewel tones like emerald, navy, and maroon. When selecting a color, consider the season, venue, and your own personal style:
- Classic Red and Gold: If you’re aiming for a traditional bridal look, you can never go wrong with a red Banarasi silk lehenga. This color combination is iconic for Indian brides, symbolizing love and prosperity.
- Elegant Pastels: For a contemporary twist, opt for pastels like blush pink, soft peach, or powder blue. Many modern Banarasi lehengas use pastel bases with muted gold or silver zari, creating a look that’s both trendy and timeless.
- Rich Jewel Tones: Emerald green, royal blue, and deep wine are perfect for brides who want a bold, striking look. Jewel tones bring out the luster of Banarasi silk beautifully and work well for evening weddings.
2. Experimenting with Blouse Designs
The blouse can make or break the overall look of your lehenga, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Here are some trendy blouse styles that go well with Banarasi silk lehengas:
- Classic Elbow-Length Blouse: For a more traditional look, an elbow-length blouse with intricate embroidery or zari work perfectly complements the richness of Banarasi silk.
- Off-Shoulder or Sweetheart Necklines: Modern brides who want a unique edge can opt for an off-shoulder or sweetheart neckline. This style softens the look, adding a contemporary flair that doesn’t compromise the lehenga’s elegance.
- Peplum or Jacket Style Blouses: To create a more fusion-inspired look, try pairing your lehenga with a peplum or short jacket blouse. This adds volume and creates a regal silhouette, especially suitable for winter weddings.
- Deep V-Neck or Halter Neck Blouses: For a modern and sophisticated appeal, you can also experiment with V-neck or halter-neck blouses. These styles add a hint of modern elegance while ensuring the Banarasi silk remains the focal point.
3. Accessorizing the Banarasi Lehenga
The right accessories can elevate your Banarasi silk lehenga from beautiful to breathtaking. Here’s how to style it with accessories that enhance, not overwhelm, the look:
- Traditional Gold Jewelry: Banarasi silk lehengas pair beautifully with gold jewelry, especially pieces like chokers, matha pattis (headpieces), and jhumkas (large earrings). These elements bring out the gold in the zari work, adding to the richness of the ensemble.
- Kundan or Polki Jewelry: If you want a more modern jewelry option, opt for kundan or polki sets. The uncut stones add a luxurious, vintage appeal, and the intricate designs complement Banarasi silk’s grandiosity without overwhelming it.
- Maang Tikkas and Passa: Adding a maang tikka or passa (side headpiece) can give you an elegant and traditional look. These accessories add balance, especially if you’re wearing a more modern blouse style.
- Belted Look: A recent trend is adding a belt to the lehenga. You can use a traditional embroidered belt or a metallic one to cinch the waist, adding structure to the flowy silhouette. This also makes the outfit look more structured and can give you a slimmer look.
4. Draping the Dupatta: Traditional with a Twist
The way you drape the dupatta can greatly impact the overall appearance of your Banarasi lehenga. Here are some modern and traditional ways to drape it:
- Classic Saree Drape: For a more traditional look, drape the dupatta like a saree pallu across the shoulder and let it flow over the arm. This style keeps the elegance of the outfit intact and allows the intricate designs to be showcased fully.
- Double Dupatta Drape: For grand events or bridal looks, consider using two dupattas—one draped over the head in a traditional style, and the other elegantly pleated across the front. This creates a layered effect that’s rich and luxurious.
- One-Sided Shoulder Drape: For a simpler, more modern look, drape the dupatta over one shoulder and pin it in place. This allows the skirt of the lehenga to take center stage, highlighting the Banarasi weave.
- Belted Dupatta Style: Another chic option is to drape the dupatta over both shoulders and secure it with a belt at the waist. This is a practical option for brides who want a modern look that stays in place throughout the event.
5. Playing with Hairstyles and Makeup
Your hair and makeup can add the final touch to your bridal look. Here are a few ideas that work beautifully with Banarasi lehengas:
- Classic Bun with Gajra: The timeless bun adorned with gajra (jasmine flowers) is perfect for traditional weddings. It’s a style that complements the sophistication of Banarasi silk and keeps the focus on the outfit and jewelry.
- Loose Waves or Braided Updo: For a more modern, romantic look, try loose waves or a textured braided updo. This style is especially fitting if you’re wearing a modern blouse and want a balance between traditional and contemporary.
- Bold Eyes with Nude Lips: A classic bridal look involves smokey or kohl-rimmed eyes paired with a soft, nude lip. This enhances the overall look without drawing attention away from the vibrant lehenga.
- Minimalistic Makeup: If you prefer a natural look, go for soft, dewy makeup with subtle highlights. Light pinks or peaches work well with most colors, allowing the lehenga to shine as the focal point.
6. Footwear Matters
The choice of footwear should combine style and comfort, especially since Banarasi silk lehengas can be on the heavier side. Here are some options that work well:
- Traditional Juttis: Handcrafted juttis with intricate embroidery or mirror work are ideal for maintaining the traditional vibe.
- Heeled Mojaris: For added height, go for mojaris with a slight heel. They combine the traditional appeal of juttis with the elevation of heels.
- Statement Heels: If you prefer contemporary footwear, opt for elegant heels with metallic or velvet textures. Make sure they’re comfortable enough to wear for long hours, as comfort is key on your big day.
Conclusion
Banarasi silk lehengas are a beautiful choice for modern brides who want a wedding outfit that feels both regal and connected to tradition. With endless options for colors, blouses, drapes, and accessories, these lehengas can be styled in countless ways, allowing each bride to make the look her own. Whether you lean towards a traditional or contemporary aesthetic, Banarasi silk lehengas offer a versatility that’s perfect for creating unforgettable bridal moments.
