'Ghunghats' will be back in vogue: Monisha Jaising

Fashion designer Monisha Jaising feels the pandemic will bring back the traditional "Ghunghat" worn by brides. As wedding season approaches, she says, the focus will be on silhouettes.

Monisha shares, "Due to the pandemic, weddings have changed completely, from guests list to the bridal attire. Earlier, brides used to go for heavy embroidery lehengas with a lot of jewellery to go with it. However, in the given situation, weddings have become closed door events with limited number of family and friends. It has brought back the traditional "ghunghat".

This will be a huge come back trend in all weddings post COVID-19 as it is not just our tradition, but will also work as a mask to keep you safe."

The concept of 'ghungats' has been there for centuries. Its utilisation has become more of a fashion statement that necessity, because it's meant to be a royal wedding accessory and also completes the Indian wedding attire.

During this wedding season, the main focus will be on silhouettes as it's now more important than heavy embellishments; sequins in the zari can carry the virus up to 72 hours. So brides should have something that safer during this time. Silhouettes will play the role as it will be the focus of the garment.

"Functional and comfortable clothing is the new essential for every bride for example lehengas and evening gowns with pockets to keep their stuff handy like mask and sanitizer. Considering the current scenario, comfort is the key. Pocket lehengas or pre-stitched sarees are revolutionary in creating functional fashion.

As many festivals and occasions are small due to pandemic, the kind of garments that we used to wear earlier has changed. Definitely this can bring more innovation to bridal fashion," adds Monisha.

Bridal wear can be reused on other occasions as going minimal with garments is trending. Garments that are simple yet elegant can be recreated, for instance, pairing the bottom of the lehenga with shirt to rock the occasion.