Celebrity designer Masaba Gupta unveiled her latest bridal collection this week, starring Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor as the showstopper. The internet has mixed reactions about it. We’ll dive into what the buzz is about, who’s loving it, and who isn’t, and why it got the internet talking.
Masaba Gupta is one of the top names in luxury fashion who refuses to blend into the norm. Known for her unapologetically bold patterns, unconventional silhouettes, and an instinct to steer clear of fleeting trends. She plays by her own rulebook.
She isn’t just another name in Indian Luxury Fashion. Masaba stands out for what Indian designers are capable of, swapping the monopoly of the lehenga and heavy embroideries. In an industry where luxury fashion often blurs into one glittery, embroidery-packed style, Masaba dared to build a brand on a unique vision.
When Masaba first dropped her Bridal collection in 2023, it was quite the turn for the brand. Her best friend Kareena Kapoor became the face of the collection. The caption introducing the collection read ‘Introducing our very first Masaba Bride,…. Very rarely do you come across a face that is haunting, beautiful, memorable and makes you want to be as you are.’
Even then, the collection had mixed reviews. It portrayed a bridal vision that is bold and intimidating. The embroidered motifs on the garments were huge, a shift from the fine, delicate details many brides lean towards. For a bride seeking a softer, more inviting aura on her wedding day, it can feel daunting.
The House of Masaba’s lehenga embroidery feels trying, almost reeking of desperation to stamp its place in the bridal market. Yet, Masaba is so much more than a bridal label. Her signature lies in fearless design choices that have set her apart. The bridal space has never been where her craft blossoms
The latest ‘Masaba Bride‘ bridal collection featuring Janhvi Kapoor welcomes a similar type of reviews to those Kareena got. The collection looks like it was brought together in haste to launch. It lacks depth, craftsmanship, and allure; every bride wants to don it on her big day. It looks like they were brought together in haste to launch.
Fashion reviewer, @dessicritic on Instagram, critiques the collection, noting that the embroidery resembles patchwork stuck together. Something any local tailor could replicate. He points out that the motifs are spaced too far apart, leaving spaces looking like empty grounds. And that the skirts and dupattas are predominantly lined with lace, lacking authenticity.
The disconnection between conventional brides and Masaba’s outgoing, daring designs makes it difficult for her to find her audience.
