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Manish Malhotra's spellbinding bridal collection

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Bollywood designer Manish Malhotra closed Day Two of the LFW with a spellbinding bridal collection.

The theme this time around was, ironically enough, not centred around a happily-ever-after story, but was inspired by the defiant bride who has jilted her groom at the altar.

Keeping in mind the latest trend of 'destination weddings', the creations were not traditionally relevant to any community in particular. And while his starry clients like Kajol, Urmila Matondkar and Avanti Birla looked on, the designer unleashed his bridal couture in full force on the runway.

The audience was mesmerised from the word go as a twirling and preening ghagra choli in white and champagne sailed out onto the runway.

Velour with verve

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
This demure mermaid ghagra is set off to perfection by a vermilion velour choli (abs compulsory, please!).

Moving in a new direction

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Making a distinct foray onto new ground, the designer gives the trademark red a complete miss, choosing instead a deep olive tone. A ruffled churidaar-kurta? Well, it works.

Fuschia whispers

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Dull gold creates the ideal backdrop for a dash of threadwork fuschia flowers along the hemline -- very becoming.

Hide and seek

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
The churidaar-kurta makes another appearance, this time playing with hide-and-seek sheer fabric and an empire waistline.

Kiss of red

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Although the focus of the collection has not seen too much red, given the theme, the colour gives just a kiss to a lot of the ensembles, like this ghagra-choli.

A sombre groom

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Looks like the no-show bride has left her man in a sombre mood -- it's overtones of brown and grey for the groom!

Classic silhouette

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
This number borrows Grecian overtones, with its roped waist and the stunning layered ruffles make for an effortless, classic silhouette.

Sharp cuts

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
It's the guys' turn again, this time with a smart sherwani jacket making the rounds.

Festive flair

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Sahil Shroff livens up the menswear with a dash of vibrant colour.

Royal belle

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Subtle green takes over as a transparent netted tunic sits atop a resplendent ethnic ensemble.

Playing up prints

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Threadwork and prints come together in a clashing play of hues on this bandhgala.

Bridal dream

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Now this is surely every Indian girl's dream! A stunning, true-blue traditional outfit, with mind-blowing embroidery and motifs.

Bold is beautiful

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
And if you dare to bare on your bid day, this earthy and red pepper creation should clinch the deal.

The star designer

Last updated on: September 19, 2009 
Finally, after a long, breathtaking showing, Manish steps out in style surrounded by his many gorgeous brides and grooms, as the celeb-dotted audience applauds.