10+ bandhani ensembles with a twist for the millennial bride
When it comes to versatility, nothing can beat the evergreen bandhani. And, if you're just as enamored with this classic tie & dye technique as we are, here are a few ensemble ideas to inspire you.
The traditional craft form of Bandhani or Bandhej has quite a rich legacy. Derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Banda’ which means ‘tying up,’ this ancient tie and dye technique has found a place in women’s wardrobes through the ages, be it via sarees, stoles, tee shirts, or skirts. Created by tying portions of fabric tightly and dying them so that the knotted areas retain the original color of the cloth, various patterns of circles, waves, squares and dots can be achieved. The technique is famously found in the four major patterns such as leheriya, mothra, ekdali and shikari.
Although the inception of this art form is often traced to Jaipur, many believe it was introduced in Kutch by the Muslim Khatri community of Gujarat. Today, while cities like Jaipur, Sikar, Bhilwara, Udaipur, Bikaner, and Ajmer in Rajasthan and Jamnagar in Gujarat are key centers for bandhani production, it is available all over the country and is often spotted in couture collections of many designers. From its first bridal account in Bana Bhatt’s ‘Harshcharita, in the 7th century, the love for Bandhani has come a long way, and if you are looking to add it to your wedding wardrobe, here are some great ways to flaunt this timeless craft.
An ode to the textiles and embroidery by Rabari women, these naturally dyed mustard outfits in breezy silhouettes and with Bandhani motifs, are perfect for a sun-kissed look at a haldi or mehndi soiree.
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This Anamika Khanna off-white saree is paired with a low cut blouse and a vibrant flowing Bandhani cape, and is perfect to stand out at any event.
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This ombre green and blue Bandhani saree with gold trimmings by Manish Malhotra is paired with a chic velvet blouse which makes for a striking combination.
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Lajjoo C’s mint saree Bandhani saree teamed with a floral blouse with a relaxed silhouette is the perfect breezy choice for welcome lunch or mehndi.
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Dramatic and dazzling, this Tarun Tahiliani lehenga is a vision with its raw silk, zardozi embroidery, brocade blouse and Bandhini dupatta.
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This kalidar lehenga with Dori and Aari embroidery by Tarun Tahiliani is paired with a sequinned blouse and tasselled Bandhani dupatta in an elegant combination of cream, beige and red hues.
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An ombre peach-pink saree by Six Yard Staples in Gajji Silk features striking gold thread weaves and Bandhani patterns, and pairs perfectly with the sleeveless golden blouse.
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This Tarun Tahiliani Bandhani saree with intricate patterns in myriad colors like pink and mint green is perfect for a festive occasion.
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Arpita Mehta’s electric blue tiered ruffle Bandhani jacket with gharara pants is the very definition of boho-chic.
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This caramel peplum top paired with a Bandhani skirt from Koasheé by Shubhitaa is a trendy look for a mehndi bash. Style this ensemble with antique jewellery for a trendy look.
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Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla’s inticate crimson Bandhani saree with broad embellished golden borders is simple yet striking.
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An intricate red Bandhani dupatta worn over one shoulder adds a splash of colour to this glittering beige lehenga by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, which is paired with a matching blouse and a dupatta worn over the head.
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Anyone wearing this will stand out! Check out this sunny yellow Bandhani ruffle top with gharara pants paired with an Ahir hand-embroidered corset belt and cowrie detailing by Arpita Mehta.
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This Bandhani bandeau blouse and gharara pants ensemble teamed with an Ahir hand-embroidered cape with cowrie shell detailing by Arpita Mehta is flamboyantly feminine.
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Colorful leather juttis by Imlee with Bandhani prints which are spruced with ghungroo accents will add a fun pop to day events.
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