There was a time when brown was not considered an elegant choice for an Indian bride, as this earthy tone is often viewed as understated or even too casual. However, today, that stigma has been thrown out as the color brown has made a significant comeback in the realm of bridal attire. The modern day brown lehenga has evolved from just beige or taupe to many rich, decadent shades, including Deep Bitter Chocolate, Warm Cocoa, Luminous Caramel and Spiced Cinnamon, creating a luxury filled yet sophisticated and even interesting bridal look.
The emergence of the brown lehenga represents a shift away from the traditional Indian bridal look of the past, which often consisted of hyper-colorful and flashy wedding day looks that have now given way to a more mature, nationally inspired design aesthetic focusing on a quieter, more natural elegance.
The magic of the brown lehenga lies in its ability to carry heavy, traditional embellishments while providing an overall impression of refined understated elegance and sophistication. Brown lehengas are the perfect foundation for metallic and gemstone adornments. When gold embroidery (such as zardozi or dabka) is added to the fabric of a chocolate brown velvet, the effect is one of regal beauty. The contrast is stark and bold, yet the warmth provided by the color is unique and cannot be replicated by pure black or deep navy.
The brown color palette is adaptable to changing the mood of the whole outfit:
DAY TIME EVENT – For a day time Sangeet or outdoor ceremony, a lush light Caramel or muted khaki silk lehenga finished with delicate pearl or mirror work will have an elegant feel.
EVENING RECEPTION – For the evening reception, a gorgeous rich russet velvet lehenga, heavily embellished with antique gold and oxidized silver, creates a sophisticated vintage glamour look to exemplify decadence.
Visually and Texturally Interesting
Texture is an essential part of brown’s identity and ideal for creating drama in an outfit. Bright colors can detract from the details in a fabric, while neutral brown allows for a deeper respect for the fabric and embroidery through the visual aspect of the fabric’s texture.
Velvet – A deep chocolate brown velvet has no equal when it comes to creating a creating stunningly rich, shadowy folds that reflect the charm of an aristocrat from the past.
Raw Silk – A light Tan or Mocha shade of raw silk provides a beautiful natural slub texture that represents a bohemian and earthy upscale aesthetic.
Organza – A light cinnamon sheer organza, when used as a dupatta, provides a soft spiced shimmer that glows in natural light.
The emphasis on texture over simply bright hues makes the brown lehenga visually dynamic and endlessly new.
Style: A Modern Vintage Aesthetic
The brown lehenga is an ideal blank canvas to create a modern vintage look. The perfect accompaniment to antique & heritage jewelry:
Polki & Kundan: The softness of the uncut creamy stone, along with the richness of gold, add warmth & vibrancy, when worn with this deep hue of brown.
Contrast Styling: Monochromatic (same color lehenga & dupatta), starkly stylish on its own, gives way to accessory styling as another way for brides to play with color. Blouse in Teal or Deep Emerald, or a dupatta with Mustard Yellow edging can create an eye-catching contrast while having an exquisite direction.
Ultimately, the brown lehenga represents the bride that is drawn to subtlety, depth and a classic sense of glamour. A luxurious statement whispered rather than shouted; a promise of a memorable appearance tied closely to nature, elevated by the skillful artistry of craftsmanship. The color brown embodies the warm, inviting tones that have finally made it to the list of bridal excellence.
Miss Fashion Smoke Blog 
Leave a comment