The lehenga choli is a timeless and elegant outfit that has become a staple for weddings, festivals, and special occasions. While the traditional look of a lehenga choli is always stunning, many modern brides and fashion enthusiasts are opting to create personalized, unique styles by mixing and matching different elements of the lehenga and choli. Whether it’s combining fabrics, experimenting with cuts, or playing with colors, there are endless ways to customize your lehenga choli ensemble. Here’s a guide on how to mix and match lehenga choli styles to create a one-of-a-kind look.
1. Experiment with Different Fabrics
One of the easiest ways to create a unique lehenga choli look is by mixing different fabrics. Combining contrasting materials can give your outfit depth and a fashionable twist.
How to Do It:
- Velvet with Georgette: A velvet lehenga paired with a georgette or chiffon choli creates a beautiful contrast between heavy and light fabrics. Velvet offers richness and texture, while georgette or chiffon adds fluidity and movement.
- Silk with Net: Silk is luxurious and shiny, and when paired with a net or lace choli, it can add an element of softness and airiness. This combination works perfectly for evening functions or weddings.
- Banarasi with Crepe: Traditional Banarasi fabric paired with a modern crepe or satin choli will blend the old and the new, giving you a contemporary bridal look with a cultural twist.
Pro Tip: Keep the overall color palette in mind when mixing fabrics to ensure the combination looks cohesive.
2. Mix and Match Skirt and Choli Styles
The classic lehenga choli usually features a matching skirt and top, but today’s fashionistas are opting for more experimental combinations. Mixing different skirt and choli styles can be a great way to make a bold statement.
How to Do It:
- Flared Skirt with Crop Top: If you’re looking for a youthful and trendy look, pair a voluminous flared lehenga skirt with a modern crop top. The contrast between the heavy skirt and light, fitted crop top will create a stylish, balanced look.
- A-Line Skirt with a Peplum Top: A flared A-line lehenga with a peplum-style choli gives a very chic and modern appearance. The peplum choli adds structure to the waist, creating a flattering silhouette.
- Straight Cut Skirt with a Fitted Blouse: For a more contemporary vibe, combine a straight-cut lehenga with a fitted blouse or a deep-neckline choli. This creates a sleek, elongated look that is elegant yet edgy.
Pro Tip: If you’re pairing different styles, make sure the skirt’s volume and the blouse’s design balance each other for a proportionate look.
3. Play with Colors and Prints
One of the most exciting ways to create a unique lehenga choli look is by experimenting with different colors and prints. While traditional lehenga cholis are often one color or feature intricate embroidery, mixing up hues and patterns can make the outfit stand out.
How to Do It:
- Contrasting Colors: Pair a bold color skirt with a contrasting blouse. For example, a vibrant red lehenga skirt with a soft pink choli creates an eye-catching contrast. If you prefer something subtler, a navy blue lehenga with a gold or beige choli exudes elegance.
- Printed Skirt with a Solid Choli: If you want to make a statement with prints, opt for a printed lehenga skirt paired with a solid-colored choli. This balances the busy print on the skirt while allowing the choli to add a touch of simplicity.
- Ombre Effect: Ombre lehengas that transition from one color to another are incredibly fashionable. You can pair such skirts with cholis that are either the same tone or a contrasting solid color.
Pro Tip: If you’re playing with bold colors, limit the number of prints and embroidery on the outfit to keep the look from becoming overwhelming.
4. Mix Traditional and Contemporary Elements
One of the best ways to achieve a unique lehenga choli look is by blending traditional elements with contemporary trends. This fusion style is perfect for brides and fashion-forward individuals looking for something innovative yet culturally rooted.
How to Do It:
- Traditional Skirt with a Contemporary Blouse: Combine a traditional lehenga skirt made of Banarasi or Kanjivaram fabric with a trendy choli featuring modern cuts like a crop top, backless design, or sheer sleeves.
- Cape or Jacket with Lehenga: Add a contemporary cape or a long, embellished jacket over your lehenga choli to give it a modern twist. This will elevate the outfit, adding both flair and structure.
- Layered Dupatta: While a single dupatta is common, experiment with two dupattas in different fabrics or colors for a more dramatic and unique look. You can even drape the dupatta over your shoulders like a cape or let it flow down the back for an elegant, regal effect.
Pro Tip: Keep the traditional fabric and the modern element in balance to ensure the look remains harmonious.
5. Mix and Match with Accessories
Accessories can elevate your lehenga choli outfit and help you achieve a truly unique look. Mixing different styles of jewelry, footwear, and bags can make a big difference.
How to Do It:
- Statement Neckpieces: Opt for a chunky necklace with a simple lehenga choli to add drama, or go for delicate jewelry for a more minimalist look. You can even layer necklaces for a more modern touch.
- Footwear: Pair traditional lehengas with contemporary footwear like stilettos or block heels for a modern edge, or opt for traditional juttis and mojaris to keep the look grounded in cultural roots.
- Bags: Choose unique bags like a beaded clutch, potli, or a box clutch to enhance your outfit. Mixing a traditional lehenga with a modern handbag can give your look an unexpected twist.
Pro Tip: Choose accessories that complement the overall color scheme and style of your lehenga choli without overshadowing the outfit itself.
6. Add a Personal Touch with Customization
Customizing your lehenga choli is an excellent way to ensure your outfit is completely one-of-a-kind. From embroidery to design elements, adding your personal touch can elevate the look and make it uniquely yours.
How to Do It:
- Personalized Embroidery: Opt for custom embroidery with your initials, a meaningful quote, or a design that holds sentimental value. This can add a meaningful aspect to your outfit.
- Mixing Custom Designs: If you want a very unique look, you can even ask your designer to combine different lehenga and choli designs from their collection. This is perfect for couples looking to incorporate their love story into the outfit.
Pro Tip: Customization can take time, so plan ahead and work with a skilled designer to bring your vision to life.
Conclusion
Mixing and matching lehenga choli styles is an exciting way to create a personalized, unique look for your special occasion. By experimenting with fabrics, colors, cuts, and accessories, you can achieve a blend of tradition and modernity that reflects your personal style. Whether you’re a bride, a bridesmaid, or attending a celebration, there are endless possibilities to explore. Don’t be afraid to break the traditional rules and embrace your creativity for a one-of-a-kind lehenga choli look!
