THE monsoon can be a messy time for Indian weddings, both for the hosts as well as the guests. But since the almanac makes no allowances for weather conditions, the arrangements or what people wear, you will have to live by your wits, especially if you are the one being betrothed.

Designers would, of course, offer any number of options for a bridal trousseau. Since the ceremonies typically run into several days, you might have to choose what goes best with every occasion. But ideally, you ought to be dividing your trousseau list into sections: ethnic, western and semi-formals.

For the Indian section, you need to have a judicious mix of sarees, lehnga-cholis, salwar-kameezes and lachas. Sarees are must-haves in every trousseau, regardless of the weather and could range from the popular Banarasis and Kanjeevarams to the rather exotic and rare Paithanis and Maheshwaris.

Check the spread of the sarees in terms of texture, colours and patterns — especially on the border and pallav. Your best option would be the traditional weaves in classic shades of vermilion, sap green, lime and aquamarine. These are auspicious colours and never go out of fashion.

Nevertheless, get hold of a colour consultant to check out what shades suit you most. Certain colours might look great on someone else, but would make your skin look sallow and drained out. Any colour that makes your complexion glow is right for you.

A quick rule of the thumb is that fairer skins with pink undertones can carry off reds, purples, wines, blues and greens. In contrast, wheatish skins with yellow undertones should stick to earth colours like ochre, orange, brick and rust.

You might like to supplement these with a couple of tailored sarees and embroidered cholis to match. Alternatively, you could get hold of some chiffon sarees with gold or silver thread embroidery. These would not only look understated but also quite elegant and immensely chic.

Salwar-kameezes and lehnga-cholis can either be sourced from well-known designers or made on order from a tailor you can trust. The more adventurous would incorporate design elements and patterns that catch their fancy so that the outfit bears a personal touch of exclusivity.

Either way, you should have decided on the outfits about two months in advance. And make sure you do not lose or put on weight, or else you might end up looking like wearing someone else’s clothes. Also ensure that some of these have traditional embroidery. Crystal accentuated outfits are really ‘in’ though.

For the wedding, you will need three or four outfits for various ceremonies—mehndi, sangeet, cocktail and reception. While a lacha in tissue and zardozi is appropriate for the sangeet ceremony, the mehndi will require a bright bridal saree — either Banarasi or Kanjeevaram with traditional motifs.

For the wedding reception, your best bet is a ghagra-choli in maroon, burgundy, pink, red or wine shades, with intricate zardozi embroidery. Team this with traditional jadau (gold) jewellery and you would have got your look for the occasion.

Now, should you be having a cocktail party also, formal western wear would be a necessity. A trouser and jacket combination may be teamed with a silk camisole for a formal evening look. A knee-length dress in figure-flattering fabric and a good fit is also just right.

Do make sure that the colour of the outfit goes well with the ambience of the evening. For instance, antique lace could be a safe bet for the cocktail function. Gold lace as a sheath dress is immediately sexy, attractive and timeless.

Other essentials for a trousseau are your lingerie and nightwear. You will need one nightdress with lace and all the silky-satiny feel that is supposed to make your honeymoon great. A set of satin pyjamas is also a must-have, as also a couple of white cotton nightdresses.

You could also go for the beautiful hand-embroidered, handmade lace numbers if you are in the mood. And you would definitely need a satin teddy for your lingerie. A bright red satin bikini bra with a bikini brief is also a must-have. And if white is more your scene, get a lovely hand-crocheted set.

As you would be required to do a lot of visiting after the wedding, do keep aside a couple of heavily embroidered blouses, which may be mixed and matched with elegant crepes and chiffon. These would look both understated and chic — and suit your purpose perfectly! MF