Pakistani designer Shireen Lakdawala has created a line of dresses that embody cultural significance and modern aesthetics. Her designs allow bridal parties to showcase personal preferences while maintaining an image of refined elegance at a wedding event.

When it comes to dressing for a Pakistani wedding, style and comfort are crucial. Choosing comfortable garments that can be worn for long periods of time can help you enjoy the festivities without worrying about dress malfunctions.

Lehenga-choli

The lehenga-choli is a traditional dress which brings out the essence of femininity in the wearer. This three-piece outfit consisting of a skirt, blouse and dupatta is worn at weddings, sangeets, festivals and other special occasions. It is made of fabrics like chiffon, silk and georgette and adorned with intricate beadwork, embroidery and mirror work.

Choosing the right fabric for your lehenga can have a huge impact on the overall look of the dress. A heavier fabric such as velvet, satin, or brocade is best suited for heavy embroidery and embellishments. Lighter fabrics such as crepe, chiffon, and georgette are better suited for lighter embroidery and embellishments.

Another important factor in choosing a lehenga is selecting the right color for your skin complexion and body type. Darker shades are often preferred for people with fair complexions and healthier bodies, while lighter colors are ideal for those with dusky or olive-toned skin.

The fit and silhouette of the choli can also make or break your look. A-line cholis can create the illusion of a slimmer midsection for apple-shaped bodies, while fitted cholis can accentuate curves in pear-shaped bodies. If you have an hourglass-shaped body, consider a corset-style choli to enhance your curves even more.

Gharara

The Gharara is a traditional Pakistani outfit that’s great for formal events and weddings. This dress has a wide flare at the bottom that makes it look gorgeous and elegant. It also comes in a variety of colors, from gold to crimson, so you can choose the one that best suits your personality and style. The gharara is typically made from luxurious fabrics like silk, chiffon, and georgette, which adds to its regal appearance. It is often embroidered with zari and kamkhwab work.

The gharara is traditionally worn with a kurti and dupatta. The kurti is typically short, but can be any length you want. The gharara is usually draped in different ways, so you can experiment with a few styles before choosing the one that looks best on you. The kalis or gathers at the knee are what distinguishes the gharara from other types of pantyhose. They can be ruched so they flare out dramatically, and can be heavily embellished or embroidered with intricate designs.

If you’re looking for a casual Pakistani Gharara suit, then consider getting one in pastel colors. Pair it with oxidized jhumkas and bangles for a stunning look that’s perfect for any occasion. You can also wear a hand-block print dupatta or an embellished shawl to elevate your look even more. Regardless of the color or style you prefer, a frock gharara set from Aachho will look amazing on you.

Sharara

Sharara is a traditional yet trendy ensemble that originated from South Asia, particularly in India and Pakistan. This outfit features a pair of flared pants that resemble skirts, paired with a kurta and dupatta. The kurta is usually fitted at the waist but flares out dramatically from the knees or thighs, resembling a palazzo pant. The pants are often heavily embellished with embroidery or other decorative elements.

The kurta is typically worn over the sharara and can vary in length, sleeve style, and neckline. It can also be adorned with matching or contrasting embroidery. The dupatta is a long scarf or shawl that adds elegance to the outfit. Shararas can be made from a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, chiffon, and georgette. They can also be embroidered with intricate designs, such as gota patti or cut dana, to enhance their beauty.

While the color of a heavy sharara dress can be up to personal preference, it should match the occasion and season. Brighter colors like red and gold accentuate celebratory vibes, while pastel shades embody a subtle charm that’s perfect for day events.

Choose a sharara that’s crafted from premium fabrics to ensure comfort and a flattering fit. You can then complete your look with heels or juttis that complement the sharara’s color and design.

Sari

The sari is an elegant choice for brides looking to honor tradition while still embracing their personal style. While Indian heritage weaves such as Benarasi, Bandhini and Kalamkari are a classic bridal favorite, Rawji says modernizing the look with capes and structured jackets can add a contemporary touch.

Once you’ve nailed the basic drape, it’s time to play with pattern and embellishment. For instance, a sheer chiffon or georgette sari can be used as an overlay over a solid color or printed choli to add drama and glitz. Alternatively, a lace or embroidery sari can be used to add a romantic touch to the outfit.

Another great way to elevate your sari is by adding a contrasting fringe. The fringe can be added to the pallu or hemline, and it can also be used to highlight the shape of the drape. It can even be used as a sash to wrap around the waist to add a touch of romance.

While the sari remains a popular dress among Pakistani Hindus and upper middle class women for formal occasions, many lower class women prefer the more comfortable three-piece suit known as the lehenga. However, the sari is regaining popularity due to its unique beauty and versatility.