An assurance of the growing shift in the psyche — that’s what Rashi Kapoor’s collection for summer brides has at its heart. A dozen bridal outfits in pastels, with large doses of ivory and nude, Rashi’s favourites. ‘Her Story’ is a serene statement of breaking stereotypes and embracing change. “Every woman has a story to tell and her journey is unique and inspiring. Through this collection, we want women to embrace their stories, to be proud of who they are and to celebrate their beauty and strength. The collection celebrates the essence of femininity and the spirit of empowerment,” Rashi tells The Telegraph.
She says a switch has happened, with the likes of Alia Bhatt tying the knot in ivory, an indelible recent moment in our minds, and showing the way. “Alia wearing an ivory outfit for her wedding completely changed the perception. A lot of people came looking for ivory and gold. I have actually made bridal lehngas in ivory. That’s how I got inspired to do this collection. It’s no more about the reds, pinks and oranges. For me being a pastel designer, it is motivating and encouraging because finally there is acceptance. I have always done those colours. Brides are indeed willing to travel down a different road,” says Rashi.
Rashi’s collection features organza, tissue, summer silk, chiffon, georgette, crystal and glass beads and three-dimensional embroidery technique and surface texturing. “You can say it is a fusion and for the liberated woman of today,” she says. Rashi loves how ivory lends itself to easy styling and a certain universality. “It is well-suited to the season too,” she adds. Her top tip to do ivory is to keep the overall look minimal. “Go for nude or pink lips, subtle eye shadow and highlights on the cheeks. Experiment with your hair. Try loose plaits,” she says. Just right to complement the subtle mood of the colour palette.
For The Telegraph shoot, Rashi chose five pieces that would suit a variety of wedding functions, especially beach and outstation weddings and cocktails. “Cocktails are the new-age sangeet,” she says. We leave you with a fresh album.
The heavily embellished jumpsuit in silk comes with a detachable trail. “The trail adds an element of flamboyance,” says Rashi.
Floral and geometry come together in this tulle powder pink lehnga. The nude make-up adds to the contemporary appeal of this look.
This look is pure drama. The silk-satin skirt is teamed with a smart choli and a cape with “original ostrich feathers” that can be styled in numerous ways. “You can team it up with pants and a short-cropped top too,” says Rashi about this luxurious look.
Pictures: Pabitra Das
Model: Ankita Singh
Hair and make-up: Prasenjit Biswas
Location: Rashi Kapoor’s boutique (15B Satyen Dutta Road)