By Durrah Aman
Trends that dominated the runway
HUM Bridal Couture Week 2025 unfolded as a multifaceted exploration of bridal couture—one that honoured tradition while embracing reinterpretation. The runway reflected a shared design consciousness shaped by craftsmanship, cultural continuity, and the evolving sensibilities of the modern bride.
1. The Enduring Power of the Lehnga
The lehnga remained a defining silhouette across collections, appearing in both classic and reimagined forms. Structured volumes, flared panels, and carefully balanced proportions reinforced its ceremonial stature, while updated cholis and refined waistlines introduced modern elegance.
2. Heritage Revived: Ghararas & Shararas
Ghararas and shararas resurfaced with renewed relevance. Designers played with pleat definition, layering, and lighter textiles, allowing these heritage silhouettes to feel celebratory yet contemporary – perfectly suited for pre-wedding and formal bridal moments.
3. Soft Structure: Peshwas & Kalidars
Peshwas and kalidars brought romance to the runway through fluid movement and elongated lines. Styled with beautiful dupattas and detailed borders, these silhouettes offered an alternative for brides seeking grace without excess.
4. Timeless Red Bridal
Classic reds maintained their ceremonial presence, but appeared in varied undertones—from deep maroon to brighter vermilion—often paired with antique gold or tonal embroidery.
5. Contemporary Layers
Breaking traditional continuity, several collections introduced structured jackets, sheer capes, sarees, and asymmetrical draping – pieces that spoke to a bride comfortable blending couture tradition with contemporary form.
6. Craftsmanship as the Common Thread
Across the board, designers anchored their collections in artisanal mastery, reaffirming bridal couture’s reliance on handwork and heritage techniques.
7. Legacy in StitchesZardozi, dabka, naqshi, and resham embroidery appeared prominently, often layered to create rich, tactile surfaces. These techniques echoed heirloom aesthetics, reinforcing the timeless value of hand-crafted bridalwear.
8. The Chromatic Bride
Colour emerged as a defining narrative device this season, expanding bridalwear beyond traditional boundaries.
