Mumbai-based designer Monisha Jaising is based know for giving everything she touches a sensual and glam update. Her creations are ideal for the bohemian princess, who prefers her luxe ensemble with a touch of whimsy.

As the designer gears up for first ever time at the Aashni + Co Wedding Show 2017, we catch her in an exclusive conversation on destination weddings.

How should the bride go about picking her wardrobe for a destination wedding? How would you describe the Monisha Jaising bride?

Earlier, brides were rushing to recreate their version of a royal wedding or something straight off a Pinterest board. But as we greet 2017, it’s clear that brides are much more interested in going down the aisle in their own way. A destination bride does not want a run-of-the-mill Bollywood shaadi, and there’s no need to stick with done-to-death colour schemes either. Opt for fresher tones with subtle embellishments to stay in sync with the landscape.

The beauty about Monisha Jaising Couture is that the bride does not have to drape anything by herself or appoint someone to drape the outfit. We only create pre-draped/pre-stitched sari gowns and concept lehengas, which simply need to be  worn like a dress with the ease of a zip. A Monisha Jaising bride’s style quotient is super high and she loves light weight and practical ensembles that are easy to travel with. Only after I study the bride’s personality and body type, do I strategically decide the cutouts and drapes to be used.

How should the destination influence her wardrobe?

Experimentation should be the key to a bride’s wardrobe! It’s about doing traditional with a twist. The trick is to balance Indian traditions with the culture of the place where the wedding is happening. For example, for nuptials in the south of France, the bride can wear French boudoir lace with Indian brocade and zardozi with baroque embroidery.

Indian weddings are composed of numerous functions. The bride should exploit this opportunity to reflect her personality through her clothing for every function. The Indian bride is lucky enough to have the chance to show the various aspects of her personality; she could look very traditional on her wedding day, and do sexy glam for her reception.

Could you please suggest looks for the various functions at a destination wedding?

Sangeet: I recommend the bride opt for a sari gown since it is stress-free, easy-to-handle as well as chic and trendy. There is no hassle of draping, pleating and adjusting the pallu, just put on the sari gown and zip it up!

Mehendi: A colourful bandhani or Benarasi lehenga with a lace blouse is perfect! Colours like tangerine, mustard yellow and aqua blue are perfect for a mehendi function!

Cocktail: Cocktail parties are fun, easy and informal. A sexy structured cut out gown with statement jewellery would work well as would a solid coloured gown with sheer panels.

Wedding: The outfit should be an amalgam of ethnic and contemporary elements with hints of India. A modern interpretation of the traditional choli lehenga, accessorised with heritage jewels, would be apt.

Reception: I recommend a ghaghra gown which has a striking sculpted or embellished bodice with a full skirt which is constructed in a traditional Indian woven fabric.

What are the coolest destinations for an Indian wedding currently according to you? Destinations that are passé?

Any city in Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Sri Lanka are the coolest destinations for an Indian wedding according to me. Vienna, Istanbul and Goa are done to death!

Three things one should not wear at a destination wedding?

Too much jewellery, an anarkali or embroidered garments that weigh a lot.

This is the first time you’re exhibiting at the A+Co Wedding Show. What are your thoughts on the same? Tell us about the collection you’ll be showcasing.

I think the A+Co. Wedding Show will be well-planned and well thought off, where the bride, groom and their families will find exactly what they are looking for under one roof. We are extremely excited to be associated with A+Co.

Our collection will have something for everyone: the bride, bride’s sister, mother, and all of her family.  You can expect pieces right from pre-wedding and wedding rituals till post-nuptial parties, catering to each of their wardrobe needs.  Sensuous sari gowns, modern concept lehengas, structured sherwanis and evening couture are going to be a part of the collection.

Catching an array of striking fashion designs at the forthcoming AASHNI + CO Wedding Show, taking place on Sunday, 8th January 2017 at The Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane, London. Tickets to the event are priced at £30.00. For more information, please visit: www.wslondon.com