Of the many things that set Gen-Z drastically apart from their predecessors, wardrobe choices are high on the list. And we aren’t just talking about the generation’s penchant for long socks and (dangerously) low-slung baggy jeans. Their distinct sartorial mindset is conspicuous in their bridal wear choices too.
When superstar Aamir Khan’s 25-year-old daughter, mental health advocate Ira Khan, got married earlier this year, her bridal garb was the subject of ample online chatter—Khan wore an unconventional red hooded floor-length cape with a lehenga for her sangeet and skipped heavy jewellery altogether at the reception. She wore low-waist dhoti pants with casual Kolhapuri chappals for the official signing, an event where her husband-to-be showed up in shorts, a vest and sneakers.
This card-carrying Gen-Z couple is one of many who are no-holds-barred about what they wear at their wedding. And more importantly, they really don’t care what you have to say about it.
“Their generation is the first to experience technology, social media, artificial intelligence, the effects of climate change and a global pandemic, all at a very young age. Hence, their worldview is more complex,” explains couturier Rahul Mishra. “They seek more meaning in their sartorial choices and invest in fashion that connects with their individuality,” he says.
Designer Payal Singhal agrees. She has found that Gen-Z brides are refusing to be bogged down by tradition or 10-kilo lehengas. “Most millennial brides were constantly looking to their parents for approval on everything, be it cultural nuances or the depth of a blouse’s neckline. The biggest difference now is the change in authority. The Gen-Z bride is the decision-maker and completely in control of these conversations,” adds Singhal.
Singular in their sartorial choices
This has led to a radical change in everything from the colours to the silhouettes that brides are wearing. The traditional bridal palette has been reinvented while outfits have gotten sexier. “They are comfortable revealing more. Blouses have become super sexy bralettes. And there is a preference for fitted skirts and high slits too,” reveals Singhal. Jaina Lalbhai of retail venture Style Audit by Jaina Lalbhai has witnessed a great demand for structured looks that enhance the bride’s frame—snug bodices, corsets, plunging necklines and sheer panels.
The move towards pastel hues for the big day, as opposed to the traditional sindoor red, can be seen among brides of all generations, but especially Gen-Z. “White and ivory have been taboo colours for most Indian brides, but it’s the go-to for their Gen-Z counterparts. They are more drawn towards muted pastels,” says Singhal.
Mishra adds practicality to this bride’s list of preferences. They want outfits that are easy to wear and reusable. “They are having in-depth conversations about breaking down the look into separates, and restyling it after their wedding at the time of purchase itself,” says Mishra. It’s their concern for the environment that has made them more mindful shoppers than the brides before them.
“They seek more practical options too —lightweight and easy to move in, while also showcasing unique craftsmanship,” he adds. Lalbhai adds that most of these brides aren’t fixated on being the most heavily dressed person at their wedding either. “They don’t care. The bride will wear a printed lehenga while everyone else is wearing embroidered outfits if that’s what she is most comfortable in.”
New dress codes
The change in the format of a typical Indian wedding is responsible for the renaissance in the bridal wardrobe too. We are now in the era of multi-day pre-wedding celebrations and modern event themes juxtaposed with traditional rituals. “There is a significant increase in the number of wedding functions, so brides are looking for both Indian and Western silhouettes. There is a greater demand for statement short dresses and well-constructed evening gowns than ever before,” finds Mishra. “It’s also interesting to note that Gen-Z brides are inclined towards buying the exact ‘runway look’ to create the same visual impact as the brand’s campaign or runway presentation,” he carries on.
The wedding after-parties have become important events themselves, with designated themes and set-ups. It follows that there is a frenzy around shopping for these too now, observes Lalbhai. She adds: “While every generation brings about change, Gen-Z has brought about a completely unprecedented cultural reset when it comes to bridal wear and weddings.”
