Shanaya Kapoor paired a Patola-inspired lehenga with a striking bohemian backless blouse
Shanaya Kapoor made a compelling case for maximalist occasion wear in a richly layered Torani lehenga for cousin Anshula Kapoor’s wedding with Rohan Thakkar in Mumbai. Giving predictable looks a rain check, the actor chose a lehenga that placed heritage weaves, regional crafts and intricate detailing at the forefront. Rooted in colour and craftsmanship, the look reflects designer Karan Torani’s enduring fascination with India’s shared artisanal and textile traditions.
“This look from Jogiya [Torani’s newest collection] is inspired by wanderers, folk musicians and travelling storytellers who carried songs, textiles and ideas across regions long before maps drew boundaries,” says Karen Torani. Designed for those with an unmatched wanderlust, the collection celebrates the belief that culture is never still. “It moves, evolves and gathers beauty wherever it goes, just as every bride carries pieces of her past into her future.” That philosophy comes alive through every element of Kapoor’s look. “For centuries, Sindh and Kutch exchanged artisans, stories, embroidery, colour and craft, creating a visual language rooted in abundance. This ensemble celebrates that shared cultural inheritance, where traditions travelled freely and maximalism became a way of life,” he adds.
Her lehenga is an exuberant interpretation of Patola-inspired prints. Saturated shades of crimson, turquoise, jade and marigold come together in an intricate composition of parrots, floral and geometric motifs that celebrate Gujarat’s rich textile vocabulary. “Patola has always represented joy through colour. We wanted every panel of the lehenga to feel like a postcard from western India, layered with movement, memory and celebration.” The accompanying odhna continues that visual story. “It is designed to move as beautifully as it rests. It is elevated with the label’s signature scalloped embroidery and oversized damaru tassels.”
Then, there is the Kapadi choli, the traditional backless blouse silhouette which the designer reimagines via a contemporary lens, viewing jewellery as a garment. Mirrors, beads, tassels and threadwork cascade across its surface like treasured heirlooms. Another thoughtful detail is the handcrafted batua attached at the waist. Historically carried by new brides while travelling to their new homes, it used to be filled with dry fruits, dates and trinkets symbolic of good fortune.
Stylist Manisha Melwani completed Kapoor’s look with heirloom-worthy jewellery that echoed the look’s bohemian spirit. Her choices: a statement gemstone choker and bold ring from Jagdish Jewellers Chandigarh, a traditional nath from Shobha Shringar Jewellers and sculptural ear cuffs by Sheetal Zaveri. Hairstylist Hrishikesh Naskar created a sleek rope style braid, while makeup artist Shraddha Naik went with kohl lined eyes, nude lips and a delicate micro bindi for Kapoor’s beauty look.
