Look a million bucks on your wedding day

Mumbai-based designer couple Sonam and Paras Modi who will showcase their latest collection at the Lakme Fashion Week on August 24 list out the most common fashion mistakes brides and grooms make and offer tips on choosing the perfect wedding attire.

The who's who of the fashion and entertainment industry -- Madhuri Dixit, Deepika Padukone, Sonakshi Sinha, Karishma Kapoor, Neha Dhupia, Huma Qureshi, Amrita Arora, Mandira Bedi, Gauhar Khan -- have worn the clothes created by Mumbai-based designer couple Sonam and Paras Modi.

Their label is called SVA and means 'soul' in Sanskrit, which, according to them, is what their designs are all about.

We caught up with the designer duo at their Mumbai studio. They were more than happy to offer tips to pick the perfect wedding attire.

'Play down the accessories'

Sonam: A lot of girls wear too much jewellery and accessories, on top of the already embellished wedding attire.

They do this on the insistence of their families and end up looking like Christmas trees.

If the wedding trousseau has heavy embroidery, play down the accessories.

Choose accessories that complement the attire -- cut down on the bling wherever you can. If you think it’s essential, opt for shimmer over bling.

Paras: Men make the mistake of not investing in a well-fitted shirt and trousers. They just pick one off the hanger and wear it on their wedding day.

A well-fitted sherwani or suit can make a whole lot of difference in the way you look on your big day.

Even if you choose an average looking sherwani, a smart bandi (traditional overcoat) can take it up a notch.

Please click NEXT to continue reading...

Just because it looks on Kangna, does not mean it'll look good on you!

Sonam: It is natural for brides to fall in love with a certain outfit they see on display or on a celebrity.

That doesn't mean the outfit will look good on you too.

• Try on the outfit first and seek feedback.
• You need to be realistic about your choice of garments. Indian weddings are traditionally long. If the rituals demand that you sit or stand for long hours, ensure that you are comfortable in the attire.
• Get the outfit altered to your body shape if necessary. Pay attention to the cut and fit.
• Avoid outfits that are too skin-fitting -- wearing too many embellishments that rub against your skin is a bad idea.

Paras: Men must understand their body type and pick their attire accordingly.

• If you are on the heavier side, the right cut and jacket can work wonders.
• Even if you are buying something a week before the wedding, try it on a day or two in advance and get it altered, if necessary.

Heavy duty? Watch what you wear!

Sonam: Avoid netted material and heavy embroidery.

I'd go for flowing fabrics in bright colours like pink, blue and orange.

I would avoid light pastel shades and nets because they tend to stick to your body making you look one size heavier.

Paras: Heavy men should avoid loose fitting garments. Nothing complements your confidence better than a well-fitted kurta and jacket.

Please click NEXT to continue reading...

How expensive is designerwear anyway?

Sonam: Not very expensive, not any more at least.

A lot of people from India, both young and old, are warming up to the idea of experimental and customised designs.

From the way they drape their sarees and lehengas to the unusual cuts and hemlines in skirts, girls love to try garments that are far from the ordinary.

They see and buy designer stuff online and at the same time are willing to pay extra for exclusive and custom-fitted garments.

For example, our clothing range starts from Rs 18,000 and goes up to Rs 3 lakh for women.

Paras: For men, the range starts from Rs 10,000 and goes up to Rs 45,000.

The sherwanis start from Rs 18,000 while the bandis start from Rs 8,000.

Wardrobe must-haves:

Sonam: For women, a well fitted jacket, the high-low hem in a western top or blouse, a nice kaftan -- you can use it for a brunch or an evening event -- a bandhgala that you can team with a bandi, a sleeveless fitted jacket.

Paras: A waistcoat, well fitted shirt and trousers, a bandhgala jacket to wear on any occasion. Go for bright colours.

Please click NEXT to continue reading...

Five celebrities who look best in Indian wear

Sonam and Paras: Madhuri Dixit, Sonam Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut, and Alia Bhatt.

Which celebrity, according to you, is a fashion icon?

Sonam Kapoor. She has a style of her own and can carry almost any outfit with ease.

Who are the best-dressed Indians?

Sonam and Paras: Sonam Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh and Ranbir Kapoor.

Any particular celebrity you would like to design for?

Sonam Kapoor. I think she could be our muse.