In the very exclusive world of haute couture, the top of the chain stand the art-inspired commissioned couture. It is a statement of individuality and exclusivity, often reserved for the most significant occasions and a handful of elites. The Ambani wedding, with its display of art-inspired fashion, set a new standard for luxury and personalization in bridal couture. Celebrating the convergence of art and fashion, where each outfit tells a story, embodies a philosophy, and becomes a timeless piece of art, we couldn’t help but notice this elaborate pieces on the two most stylish Ambani women.
At the recently held Amabani wedding celebration, there were an array of couture outfits and jewellery on display, but among the most breathtaking ensembles were Isha Ambani’s lehenga by Delhi Vintage Co. and Radhika Merchant’s masterpiece by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla (AJSK), in collaboration with artist Jayasri Burman. Serving as a delish reminder for those who understand that fashion is not just about clothing; it is about storytelling, heritage, and the celebration of life and love, we breakdown two of our favourite looks from the Anant Ambani- Radhika Merchant wedding celebrations.
The Tree of Life: Isha Ambani’s Timeless Lehenga
Isha Ambani’s lehenga, an exquisite creation by Delhi Vintage Co., epitomizes the perfect amalgamation of cultural heritage and modern design. The theme of the outfit, The Tree of Life, is both profound and symbolic, capturing the essence of life, spirituality, and tradition. This lehenga is not merely an outfit but a canvas depicting a rich narrative.
The intricacies of the design are unparalleled. The Tree of Life is adorned with Nandis, a temple, and birds, symbolizing a harmonious coexistence of nature and divinity. The fabric, chosen after rounds of artistic experimentation, exudes a vintage texture, achieved through pure zardozi work. Embellished with antique coins and other vintage adornments, the lehenga resonates with an old-world charm that is rarely seen in contemporary couture. What truly sets this ensemble apart is the shloka from the Bhagavad Gita intricately embroidered on the border: “Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshu kada chana,” translating to, “You have the right to perform your actions, but you are not entitled to the fruits of the actions.” This philosophical touch adds a layer of depth to the outfit, making it not just a garment but a piece of wearable art. The creation of this masterpiece was a labor of love, involving numerous discussions and exchanges of ideas with Anaita Shroff, culminating in Isha Ambani’s approval. The result is a testament to craftsmanship, taking a staggering 4000 man-hours to complete.
AJSK’s Artistic Marvel: Radhika Merchant’s Jayasri Lehenga
On the other side of this artistic spectrum is Radhika Merchant’s lehenga, a product of the ingenious collaboration between Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla and artist Jayasri Burman. This ensemble is a celebration of love and artistry, a narrative brought to life through fabric and paint. Rhea Kapoor, the stylist behind Radhika’s wedding look, envisioned a dress that was a literal work of art. The lehenga’s 12 panels, hand-painted on special Italian canvas, feature Jayasri Burman’s mythical aesthetic. The garment is a visual representation of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s union, with human figures exuding a celestial aura, fauna symbolizing Anant’s love for animals, and blushing lotuses paying homage to the couple’s pure hearts. The craftsmanship is nothing short of extraordinary. Real gold zardozi hand embroidery, a glittering sea of sequins, and intricate Resham work come together to create a lehenga that is as much a piece of art as it is a fashion statement. The dominant pink hue, affectionately termed ‘Ambani pink’ by Sandeep Khosla, is a nod to the family’s penchant for this celebratory and auspicious shade.
My take on the trend: In a world where mass production and fast fashion dominate, these bespoke creations remind us of the unparalleled beauty and significance of true craftsmanship. They are a testament to the power of collaboration between designers, artists, and patrons, creating legacies that transcend time.