Bridal lehengas are a classic option for weddings and there are several options available when it comes to styles and designs. Every wedding season witnesses a shift in trends with a variety of silhouettes, colours, fabrics, and embellishments becoming crowd favourites. Whether you are just starting the search or have always had an idea of the type of bridal lehenga you want, checking out the latest trends will help you buy the most stylish outfit.
One such popular trend at the moment is floor-length cape sleeves that eliminate the need for a dupatta and add movement to the outfit. The growing adoration for cape sleeve blouses has led to a fashion dilemma amid brides – trend, tradition, or a little bit of both? While either option will look stylish, choosing a bridal lehenga is no easy task and every detail needs to be perfect. Keep reading as we explore the allure of cape sleeves and dupattas to help you pick the right one.
1. Traditional Look
Women have been wearing dupattas with bridal lehengas for ages and it brings a regal appeal to the ensemble as it was the historic garment worn by royalty in the Indian subcontinent. Traditional bridal lehengas are also heavily embellished and have equally marvellous blouses. As cape sleeves require a lighter fabric for the flowing look, they won’t have the same old-world polished charm. If you wish to wear a veil with a long train, dupattas are the ideal choice as cape sleeves will clash with the length.
2. Drapes
Dupattas tucked at the waist and draped over the shoulder are a classic silhouette for an elegant look. However, you can choose to drape the dupatta in multiple ways, whether you want it to be modest, bold, or something in between. You can also achieve different fitted or loose silhouettes with the dupatta draping style. Cape sleeves don’t allow this diverse styling, limiting your options.
3. Functionality
If you want your outfit to be functional, cape sleeves get plus points. As cape sleeves are attached to the blouse, they leave your hands free for all the activities you have planned for the big day. Dupattas need to be secured with pins and are not as easy to handle. Draping dupattas is also time-consuming and may cause delays if you need to quickly change between the wedding ceremony and reception.
4. Coverage
Cape sleeves are ideal if you want to cover your shoulders and arms. However, they won’t cover the torso like a dupatta would. Picking between the two for your bridal lehenga will depend on which areas you want to show off.
5. Occasion And Event
Every bride plans multiple outfits for her wedding week, and going for a mix of traditional and fusion looks will end the fashion dilemma and allow you to enjoy both looks. You can opt to wear a traditional embellished red lehenga with a dupatta for the main event and opt for a fun and lightweight mirror-work lehenga for the haldi, mehendi, or sangeet function.
6. Body Type
Cape sleeves will add an ethereal feel if you have broad shoulders, but may drown you out if you have a smaller frame. You can also decide between the two by looking at how to balance proportions. For example, most dupatta drapes reach the waist and add a break for an elongated silhouette, which is ideal for shorter women.
7. Modern And Playful Vibe
Cape sleeves are the way to go if you want a fusion look. Opting for a fitted blouse with cape sleeves and a high-waist skirt will make the bridal lehengas look like a gown for a modern outfit. Cape sleeves are also better if you want a playful vibe to match your personality.
8. Cape Sleeves vs Capes
Another dilemma when it comes to picking bridal lehengas is choosing between cape sleeves attached to blouses or going for a jacket-style long cape that you can wear on top. While both add a similar look, opting for an outerwear cape will allow you to style the lehenga with a dupatta later on and get the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
Both cape sleeves and dupattas can help you achieve an elegant look and are a fashionable choice. While one is rooted in tradition, the other is a popular choice among many. Picking between the two will depend on whether you want a traditional look or a fusion silhouette. You can also choose based on occasion and opt for a dupatta style during the main event and wear cape sleeves for pre-wedding ceremonies and parties. You also have the option to make your bridal lehenga a four-piece set with a skirt, blouse, dupatta, and cape jacket to change the look as you please. We hope this guide helps you pick the right bridal lehenga.
