Strength isn’t an idea typically associated with bridal wear, yet it was on the minds of husband-and-wife team Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia when designing their second foray into the category. The inspirations that informed the mood of their flirty ready-to-wear—grace, confidence, and women who intrinsically know what they want—evolved into a romantic bridal look, with an undercurrent of sensuality. There were white dresses aplenty, but a boudoir influence elevated frou-frou elements like taffeta flowers and flounce sleeves beyond the traditional.
Though the Ahluwalias showed great restraint with the simple, silk crêpe creations, the collection’s high points were when they threw caution to the wind and embraced the dexterity of their materials. Covering all that crêpe with fil coupé, crystals, and rice pearls proved more enticing than the pared-down version, and layering textures and patterns of lace resulted in a look far bolder than one swath of Chantilly. Those daring gowns are exactly the sort that will be sought out by self-possessed, bold brides—exactly the kind of women Sachin & Babi had in mind in the first place.
