When feminine meets fierce

Clean lines, delicate details and hint of drama -- Ridhi Mehra’s eponymous label is a contemporary take on traditional occasion wear. Known for her graceful, pre-draped saris, Mehra’s reimagining of Indian wear with a global appeal has caught the attention of both discerning brides as well as celebrities such as Aditi Rao Hydari, Shilpa Shetty, Nora Fatehi and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, among others.

In an interview, the Delhi-based designer talks about the evolution of the Indian bride, how tech can aid thoughtful design and why she prefers a clean, minimalist look.

Reinventing the traditional

Earlier this year, eponymous designer Ridhi Mehra launched a new capsule collection, Ever After, which featured her first corset belt.

“The sari corset came from a place of wanting to reinvent the sari for the modern woman,” says Mehra. “I wanted to give structure to fluidity—combining the grace of a drape with the strength of tailoring. Our clients love how it accentuates their silhouette while still feeling rooted in tradition. It’s that perfect mix of feminine and fierce—and it brings such a beautiful sense of confidence when worn.”

Another accessory she’d love to see make a comeback is kamarbandhs. “They add such a regal structure to any look. Whether worn over a sari, lehenga or even a dress, they can really elevate the waistline and bring a sense of old-world glamour with a contemporary twist.”

A polished charm
Asked about her personal style, Mehra defines it as minimal, effortless but always put-together. “I like feeling comfortable and easy in what I wear, but without compromising on polish. Think easy silhouettes with thoughtful detailing,” she says, citing how a good fit, a sharp sleeve or a strong neckline can instantly elevate a look.

The evolution of the Ridhi Mehra bride
“When I started, the Ridhi Mehra bride was someone who loved understated elegance. She appreciated delicate embroidery, softer tones and classic charm,” recalls Mehra. “Today, the Ridhi Mehra bride still values elegance, but she’s more playful, more expressive. She isn’t afraid of bold sleeves, statement silhouettes or trying something unexpected.”

Asked how she envisions a Ridhi Mehra bride 10 years from now, Mehra paints a picture of a self-assured woman unafraid to celebrate her individuality. “A global thinker with an Indian soul. She’ll mix tradition with personal meaning, and wear what tells her story, not just what’s trending,” she shares.

Even amongst trends, Mehra is seeing a growing emphasis on comfort. This wedding season is all about modern ease meeting timeless tradition, she says. “Brides are leaning towards pre-draped saris, sculpted blouses and breathable, featherlight fabrics like tissue and organza—perfect for summer soirées and destination weddings.”

There’s also a growing love for pieces that feel versatile, styles that transition beautifully from day to night, she adds.

Tech for good
The fashion industry contributes roughly 10 per cent of global carbon emissions annually, more than the emissions from international flights and maritime shipping combined. As many brands begin to look more closely at their carbon footprints, Mehra says digitising processes can help minimise waste and reduce emissions.

“I truly believe that conscious design begins with conscious processes. At Ridhi Mehra, we’ve embraced digital planning across the board—from sketching and inventory mapping to made-to-order workflows. By using digital sketches and backend planning tools, we’re able to visualise designs more efficiently, reduce sampling waste and avoid overproduction. It’s all about creating smarter, leaner systems that honour creativity without compromising the planet.”