While I am yet to have my very own “Big Fat Indian Wedding,” I am well aware that being a bride is hard work. Along with planning the festivities down to the smallest detail, you also have to worry about what you will need after the wedding is over! Most ladies have a standard checklist of items for their trousseau, but many forget the small essentials that can make a world of difference. Here are the five items that you simply must have in your trousseau:
A Statement Blouse
Your trousseau will be filled with gorgeous Indian saris, no doubt, but it is absolutely important that you have at least one statement sari blouse in there as well! Unlike heavy saris which can only be worn a couple of times (and only once with the same crowd), this piece can be worn over and over again with different saris and lehengas. Opt for an embellished blouse with in a neutral colour like black or gold and use it to add some magic to your sombre saris!
A Versatile Clutch
Once I started using clutch bags on a regular basis, I always wondered how I ever did without! No trousseau is complete without a versatile clutch that can be worn on every occasion. Bonus points if it works equally well with Indian and Western outfits! To get more use out of your tiny bag, opt for a clutch in your favourite metallic or neutral shade.
Timeless Indian Jewellery – Baubles
Traditional baubles are an essential for every bride’s trousseau, but you should be careful of the ones that you choose. Stay away from buying into current “trends” because this will result in your jewellery collection becoming out-dated faster than it should. Instead, opt for timeless pieces that will stay classic for years to come – kundan jewellery is always a good bet, as are pearly pieces.
A Range of Lingerie
It goes without saying that your trousseau must contain some sexy lingerie, but I also believe that you should pick up a wide range of underwear to suit every occasion. Think about investing in different styles and cuts of brassieres and panties so that you have something that works well with every ensemble. Shape-wear is a great addition to the collection, too!
A Neutral Eye Shadow Palette
If there is one makeup product that you invest in for your trousseau, please, please, PLEASE let that product be an eye shadow palette with a bunch of neutral shades like gold, bronze, nude, soft pink and the works. Look for a palette that offers a range of matte and shimmer shades for maximum utility. Any of the Naked Palettes by Urban Decay are perfect, but there are a host of cheaper options available, too. Neutral shades of eye shadow can be worn with pretty much anything and are an easy way to infuse some elegance into your look. You can’t go wrong with this one!
