How pandemic has affected Pune’s wedding season

The onset of the wedding blitzkrieg that the nation is witnessing, had led to an influx of trends. One can’t circumvent these fads. Put the current pandemic situation in the mix and one will realise the ball game has changed if not entirely then to some extent.

Tradition in vogue

Rohit Chaturvedi, a Filmfare Award-winning costume designer, who occasionally works on wedding outfits, recently styled a bride in Pune. He believes that couples are more conscious of late, as indo-western is out of fashion, traditional is back on the rack. He says, “Traditional fabrics like Kanjeevaram and others are back. Pastel colors have replaced the intense deep ones. Fitted lehengas are out, double dupatta and long veils are in.” Chaturvedi further adds, “Requests to revive family heirlooms and design the outfit around it is new”.

Subtlety is the new art

Celebrity makeup artist and influencer Saniya Shahdadpuri opines that contrary to the past, brides want to look like themselves on D-day. The Pune resident says, “Brides are opting for a no-makeup look. A smokey eye with nude lips is the most requested. Fewer people ask for heavy lashes or heavy makeup. Brides have understood that subtlety is in.”

While heavy makeups are a big no, accessories are ruling the roost. Sunny Shandil of Om Bridal Stores shares, “Every bride wants customized jewelry. The name of their groom or their wedding date is the most asked. Kaleera that was a regular at Punjabi marriages has become a must at every wedding now.” Furthermore, the men brigade has taken vanity earnestly. “Grooms match their jewelry with the bride’s,” says Shandil while Shahdadpuri adds, “Grooms are more open to makeup nowadays as they want to look the best.”

Change in outlook

Pandemic has brought consequential changes in the wedding world. Damini Oberoi, who works as a wedding planner in Pune, says, “One thing that I’ve observed post the pandemic is how the elders are more comfortable with an intimate wedding. Initially what started as regulation has now become a mindset. They understand that a lesser number is better.” Oberoi continues, “During the initial unlock period, families weren’t keen to have planners since they could manage 50 guests. Now planners are back in demand. However, the one thing we are tired of hearing is ‘What is your Covid pricing?’” Sarrah Motiwala recently visited a Bohri wedding in Pune and shares, “We have a tradition of eating from the same thaal. But due to Covid, the community eating ritual has been discontinued.”

Tips to swear by

With celebrity weddings happening, Chaturvedi warns couples “not to be a victim of trends.” He says, “Pay attention to your body, skin, your venue, and weather conditions. Don’t look at pictures online and try recreating.” Shahdapuri tips, “Avoid any kind of skin treatments close to the big day, nobody wants uninvited breakouts.”