Bridal Trousseau Packaging

Today, packaging is almost as important as the gift itself! And for events as special as weddings, packaging takes on a whole new dimension.  One of the most important part of a bride’s preparation for her new life is her wedding trousseau.  A wedding trousseau consists of new outfits (including a variety suited for every possible occasion), jewellery, toiletries, cosmetics, bed linen and much more…  Trousseau packaging is the art of packaging each of these items in a specialized, ceremonial manner, enhancing the beauty of each article that the trousseau comprises of. Apart from the trousseau, there are also gifts to be given to members of the bride’s to-be family. Traditionally, articles for the bridegroom’s family are given in quantities like 11, 21, 51, 101 or 201 which are considered auspicious.  Each of these can also be packaged or wrapped in a unique manner, according to a theme or a colour. 

There is in fact an entire art to unique trousseau packing….  Golden thaals made of hardboard with edges fringed with sequins, stone studded boxes, mirror platters with bead work, embroidered saree bags and boxes, jewellery boxes, ring ceremony platters, decorative shagun envelopes, special fruit baskets and mithai boxes are just a few items that have become a basic part of trousseau packing….  Unique designs for trousseau packing add a personalized touch to the gifts, showing the love and care which each item was bought with. In fact, all the hard work which goes into selecting the best gifts and trousseau items can go unnoticed if they are not packed and displayed properly! Large decorative items like trays etc. can even be rented for this purpose. Once the packing is complete, often a special function is held where all the trousseau items are displayed for guests to see. This is a moment of great pride for the bride’s family…

Today, trousseau packaging has caught on as a popular profession and is undertaken not just by housewives, but by professional wedding planners, decorators and others as well.  

To avail of our unique trousseau packaging services, drop us a line at mail@secretwardrobe.in or call us at 022-65293067 for more info.

The Awesome Lehenga Saree

Tired of pleating and re-pleating sarees for hours to get that perfect drape? Maybe it’s time to switch to the awesome Lehenga Saree! This elegant and easy to wear garment is basically as gorgeous as an ordinary saree, just without the complication of the pleats… Worn with a choli, the lehenga saree simply has to be tucked in neatly all around to the petticoat, and you’re good to go! This ensemble can also be made to measurement with a zip or hooks at the side for a perfect fit.  Often the saree pleats are replaced with panels of embroidery at the front, giving it a flared look, like a lehenga.

Much like a saree blouse, there are several styles of cholis available to match the lehenga saree. You can experiment with styles like halter neck, spaghetti straps, chinese collar, three-fourth sleeves or a corsette choli. Each style compliments a different body type! 

Today, many brides opt for lehenga sarees for atleast one of their wedding functions. This helps give a different look rather than wearing a traditional saree or chaniya choli. Not to mention, tons of film stars who flaunt these at award functions! Kalki Koechlin’s gorgeous nude coloured lehenga saree (designed by Sabyasachi) was indeed a head turner at the recent Cannes film festival. Many of India’s finest designers use Lehenga sarees as show stopper pieces on the ramp as well.

While the saree is one of the world’s oldest unstitched garments, it is believed that the lehenga choli originated in the Mughal era, when ladies wore it for special occasions. So when exactly did the lehenga saree originate? We don’t really know, but we can only advise you to try one out the next time you get frazzled making those perfect pleats on your saree J You will feel like a diva for sure!

Sarees: A Twist in the Tale...

The saree is the quintessential Indian outfit which symbolizes style and elegance. The silhouette of a sari enhances the beauty of a woman’s body like none other. And believe it or not, there are more than 80 recorded ways to drape a saree!

Today, the saree is undergoing a dramatic transformation - from being the attire of a humble housewife to becoming a symbol of modernity, feminism and sex appeal! Some of India’s most famous designers are adding a twist to the traditional saree, turning it into a garment that can be worn to the beach or to a ball! These fusion style sarees integrate western elements like zippers, broaches, stitched pleats and other elements which make it easy to slip into.

Browse through pictures from the latest fashion extravaganzas and you will get to see gown-style sarees, poncho sarees, kaftan sarees and even bikini sarees! The saree clearly holds its own, and acts as a strong source of innovation. 

For those who are interested in daring to be different, try Ravi Bajaj’s poncho saree, Gaurav Gupta’s gown saree, Wendell Rodricks’ jersey saree, Satya Paul’s trouser saree, Masaba Gupta’s saree with leggings and Shivan-Narresh’s bikini saree.  All of them have one thing in common - they’re easy to wear and maintain and make for amazing fashion statements! Gone are the days when the saree took an hour to wear and was reserved only for traditional occasions. Today, the saree is set to sizzle across the globe in all it’s dazzling avatars!

What Can’t you Rent These Days?

India is probably the only place on earth where one can rent just about anything - right from a womb to a Bollywood actor's appearance at a birthday party! Most Indians love showing off even if they can’t afford it, and pretty much anything that exists is up for rent: luxury cars, designer clothes, bags, office space, art and celebrities. Of course, renting is also a practical option for people who need something which they will use only once or for a limited period, including those who shift their base frequently. Home electronics, childrens’ toys, books and furniture are some such examples.  

Today, you can slip into a designer outfit and carry a luxury label bag at a heavy duty socialite party without paying an extravagant price. Organizations/websites offering Designer wear for rent is a recent phenomenon which has come up in India over the last few years. It is even possible to procure bridal lehengas or wedding gowns on rent, as these are extremely expensive and usually are never worn again. Matching accessories like bridal jewellery sets are also available on rent.

These days, many brides and grooms aspire for their wedding to be graced by a Bollywood celebrity. Shah Rukh Khan presenting a wedding event, Katrina Kaif dancing at the sangeet, and Ranbir Kapoor welcoming guests can today become a reality for anyone who is willing to pay the price. According to an event planner, a Bollywood superstar's price tag ranges between Rs 1 crore and Rs 1. 25 crore. For those couples who don't want to spend a bomb, there are always some famous faces from the film and television world who reportedly charge only a few lakhs. 

In Mumbai, even paintings are available for rent. This way, people can showcase original artworks in their living room by paying a fraction of the price, and when they get bored, they can change the display. This works well for hotels and offices as well, as it helps change the art display in their lobbies / receptions frequently. Speaking of offices, today, it is also possible to rent a swanky furnished office for a short period of time – on a monthly basis or even for a few hours! Such facilities are perfect to make a good impression on a client, and also help individuals like writers etc. who are looking out for a small space away from home where they can work without being disturbed.  

So next time, while setting up a new house or office, or organizing a big event, try making a list of what cannot be rented, and you will be surprised at how short your list is!

Essential Elements of Bridal Jewellery: 

An Indian bride is considered incomplete without her sixteen adornments or “solah sringar”, and jewellery is one of the most important part of these. Apart from the main jewellery set (consisting of a necklace and matching earrings), listed below are some of the jewellery items that which are important for every bride:

Mangalsutra

The “Mangalsutra” is an auspicious thread which the groom ties around the neck of his wife at the wedding ceremony. This thread symbolizes the love and attachment which will bond the husband and wife together throughout their lives. There are quite a few variations of the “mangalsutra” available today, including a necklace of black and gold beads with a gold or diamond pendant.

Nath

The “Nath” or nose ring could be a plain simple stud, or more elaborate, in the form of a decorative ring, held in place by a long chain tucked behind the ear. For those brides who do not have their nose pierced, there are also beautiful “naths” available which can simply be pressed into place.

Payals (anklets) and bichhia ( toe rings)

“Payals” or anklets are mostly in silver, adorned with traditional designs. Toe rings or “bichhias”, are also worn in pairs and are adorned by most married women. Traditionally, jewellery worn on the feet is not made in real gold, but costume jewellery anklets which look like gold can be found easily.

Chudis and kadas/kangan

It is considered inauspicious for a married woman to let her hands be without bangles. The importance of bangles can be gauged from the fact that different communities have different traditions when it comes to wearing bangles.

Finger rings or ‘angoothi’ and haath panjas

The engagement ring is worn in the ring finger of the left hand by the bride, as it is believed that the vein of this finger leads straight to the heart. A bride often wears rings on her other fingers as well. Very often, rings for all fingers on one hand, are linked together with chains to make what is called the “haath panja” or “haath phool”.

Maang Teeka

In the Hindu tradition, during the wedding, the groom puts vermillion in the bride’s parting, a practice many married women continue throughout their life. The “maang teeka” is thus an essential part of every bride’s trousseau.

Baaju Band or Armlet

The “baaju band” or armlet is worn a little above the elbow and is a fine piece of jewellery which was also worn by men in ancient India.

Kamarband

The “kamarband” is to be worn at the waist. This often consists of delicate chains slipped along the waist, with elaborate patterns made using coins, and beads in precious and semi precious metals. The “kamarband” adds to the grace of the bride, and should be worn with midriff baring apparel such as a sari or lehenga.

Bridal Jewellery on Rent

For those who don’t want to invest huge amounts in buying bridal jewellery, today, you can also explore the option of taking bridal jewellery on rent. This works out to be extremely economically feasible, as you are not likely to wear such heavy jewellery again.

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Gown for Your Body Type

Today’s consumer is spoilt for choice, and deciding on the perfect wedding gown can often be very confusing. Each relative and friend will give you a new piece of advice on what style to go for, but the truth is that it’s crucial to pick one that flatters your figure. Listed below are some simple tips to help you.

For a Pear-Shaped Figure:

Look for a skirt that gradually flares out in an A formation from the natural waist to the floor, highlighting the narrowness of the midsection and floating away from the hips and thighs. Avoid clinging fabrics. Sturdier fabrics, such as Dutch satin and taffeta work well for this purpose. A spaghetti-strap bodice or a V neckline will also showcase a more slender upper body.

For a Busty Figure:

Look for a dress with a scooped neckline. It will open up your face and highlight your figure without showing too much cleavage. If you love the look of strapless gowns, choose one that has a slight dip along the neckline, like a sweetheart, rather than a style that goes straight across, which will make your bust appear even larger. For the bodice, try and avoid using fabrics which have a sheen to them (such as organza, satin or silk).

For a Plus-Sized Figure:

Look for an Empire pattern dress with a skirt that begins just under the bust and flows into a gradual floor-length A-line. Make sure the Empire seam does not start on the chest and that there is no pleating of the fabric, which often ends up looking like maternity wear. The dress should be well fitted, as if it’s too loose, it will make you look bigger. Fabrics like satin (which aren’t too flowy) work well. If you love the romantic look of airier fabrics, choose a gown with a stiffer base, and then add an embroidered tulle overlay.
 

For a Tall Figure:

Look for a simple silhouette. The strategy is to emphasize your natural shape, so every aspect of the dress ― the lower waistline, a floor-sweeping hem ― should reflect your longer proportions. If you're wearing full sleeves, they should go past the wrist. You don't want to look as if you've borrowed a gown from someone shorter than you. 

For a Straight-Lined Figure:

Look for a dress that will create curves where you don’t have them. Try a sheath dress in a wispy charmeuse that’s cut on the bias; the curving side seam will give you a va-va-va-voom silhouette. Or look for a ball gown that cinches in at your natural waist and descends into a full, flowing floor-length skirt: It will capitalize on your slenderness and camouflage a lack of hips. If you have a small bust, look for a bodice with some rouching to help create volume.

For a Petite Figure:

Find a style with a waistline above your natural waist, to make the lower half of the dress (and therefore you) appear longer. The fabric is up to you―you can even pull off a fabric with a good sheen. But make sure the detailing is small (no huge bows or flowers) and limited to the bodice, to draw the eye upward. Avoid dresses with a dropped waist as these will make your legs seem nonexistent. A rouched bodice will help fill out your upper body and create an illusion of curves. Padded halter style necklines will also do the trick.

Putting Together the Perfect Bridal Trousseau

Marriage is one of the biggest events for humankind… the beginning of a magnificent journey…. a true turning point of life! And before the D-day, every to-be bride has a long list of wedding preparations to look into. One of the most important aspects for a bride is putting together a complete bridal trousseau. And we, at Secret Wardrobe, are happy to help you get it absolutely right! Listed below are some of tips for all prospective brides:

Outfits: Make sure you have a balance of outfits which can work for different occasions… You need a mix of heavy and light outfits (formals and casuals), as well as Indian and western. Make sure you have a variety of colours in your trousseau – beautiful reds, pinks, yellows, greens, blues, orange and gold are some of the colours which work well for a new bride, as you would need new clothes at every junction, atleast for the first couple of months. Do make individual sets of each outfit and pack them neatly so that they don’t get tussled and wrinkled by the time you need to wear them.  

Nightwear: Fresh lingerie deserves special importance in a bride’s trousseau. Do pack a handful of variety, a balanced mix of comfort and sensuality, an assortment of appealing colors, and some quirky stuff to blow your husband's mind away! And don’t forget to pack some fresh pajama sets and a nightgown with a house coat so that you are presentable at all times in front of other family members.  

Jewellery: A bridal trousseau can never be complete till it holds some precious jewels within it. Some heirloom pieces, your favorite ring, the maangtika, those pretty anklets, the majestic kundan-meena set, the subtle pearl set, the pair of diamond solitaires... yes, all these and some more...! Make sure you have a sufficient variety of bangles, earrings and light costume jewellery for different occasions as well. Pack your jewellery in boxes or cases, and store your bangles in a good bangle box to keep from breaking.

Footwear and Handbags: Your trousseau should have all the basic sets of footwear – silver and golden heels, a flat pair of sandals, black pumps, bathroom slippers and a comfortable walking shoe. Make sure you also buy a good roomy handbag, a spacious wallet, and an assortment of clutch purses for different occasions.   

Make-up: No woman considers herself complete until she has her make-up in place. One of the most vital essentials for a bride is of course, her entire make-up kit, packed to the tiniest detail. Buy good brands, with enough shades of eyeshadow and lipsticks to match all your new outfits. 

Linen & Toiletries:  Do buy a clean set of towels (bath towel, hand towel, face towel), along with a fresh set of sheets and pillow cases to add to your trousseau as well. And don’t forget to buy a set of new toiletries as well!

For personal shopping assistance or getting customized outfits designed for your trousseau, do give us a call at 9821178804/ 65293067 or mail us mail@secretwardrobe.in