The sheer simplicity and amiability of the people of Gujarat have helped them flourish and provide us with their vibrant arts, architecture, culture and heritage. Gujarat is a state that demonstrates a vibrant mix of different cultures like Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Islam. It is this amalgamation of these cultures that make the artforms originating from here so unique and beautiful. Now that your Wedding Ensemble dates are set and the guest list has been drawn up it is time for you to find some exquisite fabrics and stunning trinkets for your bridal trousseau. From great handcrafted embellishments to some of the finest fabrics, the State of Gujarat has a lot to offer to every bride-to-be. Gujarat is a one-stop destination that can fulfil all of your needs for finding a perfect bridal attire.

So, sit back and follow along as I take you on a journey and be your guide to explore all the beautiful offerings that the culturally rich land of Gujarat has to offer to every bride.

Treasures From Gujarat That Are Perfect For A Bride's

Patola Sarees

A couple of patola sarees are an absolute must for any bridal ensemble. A gorgeous patola saree is double ikat woven saree that’s usually made out of silk. Double ikat is made by tying together the warp and weft before weaving. The weaving of the Patola sarees is a carefully guarded treasure that’s known to only three families in Patan.

Each saree takes about six to twelve months to complete as each of the strands is dyed seperately before they are weaved together. This process is what makes this saree a highly prized possession and make it stand out from the rest of them.

Have a look @7 Traditional Bengali Sarees For Every Bride

Block Print Design

Block printing is an old method of printing designs on the cloth. Although the technologically advanced modern machines have replaced them, many of the craftsmen in Gujarat still prefer the traditional block printing. Unique to a single village named Dhamadka is a block printing technique known as Ajrakh which involves using natural ink made from different vegetables and minerals.

Ajrakh is a long process and the fabric has to first go through the washing cycle multiple times. A saree with geometric prints can take upto 20 weeks to complete but the end result is totally awe-inspiring.

Bandhani Fabrics

Usually, block printing and bandhani go hand in hand. As soon as the block printing is done on the fabric’s surface dots ar pinched tightly fastened by a fine thread. The fabric is then dyed in various vibrant colours to make some really popular designs.

Some of the most prevalent design patterns depict the scenes from a jungle, a mango orchard, various birds and dancing sticks among various others.

Elegant Embroidery

The intricately designed thread work is an art that many craftsmen in Gujarat master in. The shimmering designs made by using the threads of gold, silver and copper when combined with shiny stones, sequins and beads create a really great saree. The art of embroidering using the threads made from precious metals is what is known as Khaat or Zardozi work.

The different styles of embroidery that are really popular are Soof and Rabari. Soof is the style that uses a single stitch to create some amazing geometric patterns, while, Rabari is the embroidery pattern that’s replete with interesting mirror work.

Rogan Painting

Wouldn't it be great to wear a saree on your wedding that’s made using a century-old craft? Rogan painting is the art that is practised by only one family in Nirona. The process involves grinding of castor seeds to extract the oil and forming a paste to which diluted coloured powder in the gorgeous shades of red, green, blue and yellow is added.

These vibrant colours are then stored in separate earthen pots which saves them from drying out. Artists create half the designs on one side of the fabric using a kalam while the designs on the other half are impressed by folding the two halves.

Beaded Trinkets

The bridal ensemble is always incomplete without the jewellery that’s equally mesmerising as the wedding gown. The intricately designed beaded necklaces along with some really great looking kamarbandh and other pieces of jewellery that’s essential for any bride are some of the masterpieces of beautiful Gujarati beadwork.

These are some of the artistries that’s unique to the culturally rich lands of Gujarat. These great Gujarati handicrafts and jewellery are the result of years and years of expertise. I think this suffices that Gujarat has everything that you can possibly need for your wedding ensemble and will be the best place for your wedding Dress shopping. Which of these are your favourites that’ll surely be a part of your bridal trousseau? Do tell us in the comments section below.