Jayanti Reddy’s Benares and Beyond is for brides who prefer edgy cuts while taking pride in heirloom

Designer Jayanti Reddy’s much-awaited Winter/Festive 2019 collection, Benares and Beyond, is available at her Hyderabad studio. During our conversation with the couturier, we learn that it is for brides-to-be who like a subtle mix of surface embellishment, bold cholis and a whole lot of glamour. Known for creating fashion statements with every runway outing, this time, she has drawn inspiration from the ghats and the Ganges of Benares.

When we ask the Hyderabad-based designer about why she loves the ancient city, she tells us that she certainly finds something enigmatic about the thriving colours and culture of weavers who have perfected the art of warp and weft. “Benares reminds us what it is to lean on tradition but also how we can take from it and make it our own — quite like the brides we design for, who refuse to be defined in any absolute terms,” shares Jayanti, adding that she has travelled to Benares multiple times and found something new to love every time, informs Jayanti. One can expect ensembles in Benarasi woven fabrics teamed with sheer organza and net, which add fluidity.

The colour palette comprises muted beige to pistachio green, ivory, wines, hot pinks and rich purples. “I wanted contemporary designs with a strong connection to our heritage,” she says. That is also the reason why she gave a modern twist to anarkalis, dhotis, kurtas, dupattas and lehengas. She suggests that red is a classic for winter weddings. “For mehendi dos, the favourite colours are mustard, pale blue, green and a combination purple, fuchsia and orange,” says Jayanti. Her collection includes Indo-Western options like shararas, ghararas, peplums with lehengas and a lot of draped saris.

She has also made sure that the blouses matched with lehengas have an antique feel with a modern touch, bringing together the best of many eras in one single ensemble.

Rs.20,000 onwards.