Dark, Bold & Mysterious – Turn Heads with these Ethnic Gowns in Deep Shades

What woman doesn’t love colour?! Bright Reds, Bold Pinks, Stark Oranges and Eye-popping Yellows – these are essentials in every woman’s wardrobe – particular when it comes to festive and wedding wear.  Add to these the eye-catching neon hues, stark bright contrasts and a whole lot of shimmer and you have one dazzling bride and her equally striking coterie!

But every once in a while it’s a good idea to ditch the corals and the fuschias and turn towards something more understated and yet equally bewitching. Enter maroon, burgundy, navy, plum grey and ochre.

Don’t balk yet. Gorgeous ethnic gowns in seductively dusky shades are just what you need to take you from a bubbly, chirpy girl to a woman of elegance, confidence and charisma – especially when it comes to a wedding. Check out these stunning pieces and tell us you aren’t dying to have one (or all!) in your wardrobe!

Marooned in Paradise

This striking number in maroon and sandy beige is perfect for that evening cocktail or when hobnobbing with his family. Maroon is the perfect colour for winter weddings and beautifully complements Indian skin tones, while the beige flared skirt with marbled print adds a delicate touch. A sleeveless, fit-and-flare pattern gives it a modern appeal but while keeping things sober.

Midnight Magic 

Look every bit a sultry princess with this navy blue gown. Decked out in embroidered net, this navy blue gown is just what you need for a Mehendi ceremony – or when meeting his friends. The net lends a quite feminine charm to this dark gown, and the gorgeous embroidery simply adds to the overall elegance.

The Red Queen

Want to really turn heads? Be every bit the queen you are with this ravishing burgundy gown. The rich colour is only accentuated by the bright red rose motifs. A dual-tone burgundy – this gown stands out strikingly in light – both artificial and natural. The full sleeves and mandarin collar give it a slightly Victorian touch, while the gold detailing on the décolleté and shoulders give it a beautiful Indian/Ethnic look

Victorian Blues

Floral Prints entered the scene last year and they are here to stay! And why not – feminine, delicate and beautiful – they are stylish while being demure. This Indigo gown (a very rare colour used in wedding attire – by the way!) with cerulean floral prints is a complete stunner. Both the colours are stand-out shades are will make you the centre of attention. This ball skirt and crop top style gown is perfect for the sister of the bride or the bride’s BFF. With a sheer fabric covering the mid riff, this western stylized outfit keep things modest, while you look like a total star!

Floral Delight

Another floral number, this chocolate-brown gown with red Victorian rose print is perfect for a pre-wedding photo shoot with your prince charming – or even a grand bachelorette! With all over floral print, it’s catchy enough, while at the same time being elegant and feminine. A little gold detailing on the collar and shoulders is all it needs to fit a bridal look.

Look like a Diva

With dark and deep colours, your make up needs to be equally alluring to create a sultry, confident look. Accentuate your eyes with loads of black kajal, eyeliner and mascara. False lashes are a great way to really bring out the beauty of your eyes. It’s best to keep colours at a minimum – opt instead for eye make-up in brown, black and other dark tones.

 

Kim Kardashian has perfected the smokey eyes nude lip look for us. With a bit of contouring, some blush and a generous helping of fake lashes (and mascara) this look can be yours!

If you’re up for a little drama, wear a bold red, maroon or wine lipstick – but only if your gown is a similar shade. For a navy, green or brown gown pick a more neutral colour or simply sport a nude lip with a hint of gloss.

 

Deepika Padukone wears her red lip with confidence and class. Keeping the eye make-up simple is eye. With some highlighting and contouring – you have it nailed!

Accessorize!

When it comes to dark gowns – the outfit itself is the accessory, and you need very little else to make it work. For most dark gowns – statement earrings and a cuff/ring are all you need. Don’t wear a necklace, unless your gown is deep necked or off-shoulder, or you’ll risk looking over dressed. Opt for slightly western or boho styles over the traditional jhimkis, chaandbalis or kundan.

 

IF you intend to wear a full set (necklace-AND-earrings) make sure it’s simple, small and elegant. And as always – diamonds are your best friends!

 

Don’t be afraid of the dark, especially when it comes to your wedding attire! Try something different this wedding season, and watch the compliments roll!