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In a world full of constantly changing trends and fashion cycles, the timeless Banarasi reigns supreme.
Varanasi, the city that breathes culture through its crooked lanes and streets, is replete with textiles smeared in vibrant hues and weaving threads. Looms dating back centuries are rusted in tradition, weaving legacies of couture and craftsmanship.
Mirroring its quirk, the new focus in bridal wear is also on tradition and culture instead of glitter, drama, and adventure. Many debate that the appeal of a Banarasi is undeniable, whether it's someone looking to champion the artisanal legacy of the country through their choices or simply someone who has a taste for the finer things in life. Aside from including traditional textiles like Banarasi, one can also experiment with the cut and embroidery of the lehenga to complement their personal style. Brocade pairs well with Zardozi, while Rangkaat in candy colours translates to effortless elegance for a sundowner.
As times evolve, brides are rooting for comfort and ingenuity. A plethora of bridal trends have contributed to revamping the couture landscape while simultaneously making trendsetting contributions to the bridal industry. But it’s the classic Banarasi that conquers trend charts, claiming the top spot. Brides today are more focused on individuality than on constantly shifting trends, and embracing modernity might not necessarily mean forsaking traditions. With creativity, it’s possible to create a beautiful space where traditional weaves and contemporary styles co-exist to create magic on the aisle.
Ahead, we show you how Banarasi lehengas are the uniform of choice for every bride today. From Bandhej Banarasi to Brocade and Rangkaat, here are some one-of-a-kind weaves that you must include in your wedding mood board.
Brocade Banarasi Lehenga
Perfect for: The Wedding Day
Celebrating history and intricacy in equal measure, a brocade Banarasi lehenga is the choice du jour for brides who appreciate impeccable craftsmanship and detail. It’s no surprise that Banarasi itself is one of the most sought-after weaves in South Asian culture, and its vibrant colour scheme, distinct motifs, and graceful patterns all contribute to its finesse. The classic appeal of gold and silver threads used in weaving a brocade Banarasi is almost incomparable in quality as well as rare. Perhaps the meticulousness and clarity of a design do not depend on the technique alone; the plotting of the graph and the precise operation of the loom also contribute to its heirloom-worthy appeal.
For the bride who is a traditionalist at heart, can try our Red Hand Embroidered Brocade Banarasi Lehenga Set. The raw silk blouse and the organza dupatta with zardozi detailing look stunning when mingled with the allure of fiery red.
Banarasi Bandhej Lehenga
Perfect for: The Sangeet Night
If you want to step away from brocade and heavy embellishments, consider opting for a Bandhej lehenga for your big day. Often overlooked by brides, a Georgette Banarasi Bandhej lehenga remains one of the most underrated styles for weddings. According to recent search cases, the upcoming younger brides today are looking for styles that are easy-to-wear and also rooted in heritage, making Bandhej Banarasi a quintessential item on every bride’s mood board. The quickest way to elevate your look would be to reinvent this age-old craft by employing unique colour combinations and techniques. The key to amplifying its appeal is to opt for a blouse in a flattering silhouette or cut and play with the texture and colour of the dupatta.
Our Purple Georgette Banarasi Bandhej Lehenga Skirt With Blouse and Dupatta is a masterpiece, perfectly combining texture and craft in a wholesome colour palette.
Rangkaat; Katan Silk Banarasi Lehenga
Want your dopamine-inducing style to match your wedding look but are not sure which weave to pick? From distinctly large patterns that evoke the senses to the bold use of colour, Rangkaat Banarasi offers one of the most statement-making patterns and designs, coming straight out of Varanasi’s repository. Known for its rich use of colour and technique of weaving, what’s most challenging is how the design looks on paper can often vary when produced on the weave. The Rangkaat, a hand weaving technique, is time-consuming and demands highly specialised artistic skills. These factors, among others, have limited experimentation within this method. Perhaps it still remains one of the most exquisitely made, one-of-a-kind weaves that is sought-after in the luxury bridal market.
So, consider a Rangkaat Banarasi as your choice of wedding ensemble if you love those candy-like patterns, hypnotic swirls, the labour of luxury, and a pop of surprise.
-Team WeaverStory
