Sonia Azhar, a big name in bridal ware, has made a rather brave move with her new line ‘Divine Unison.’ Maybe I’m just coming off of Halloween but it feels like she’s just taped fairy wings to the back of outfits we’ve all seen before. Her combination of religious iconography with South Asian bridal wear is, sadly, not a match made in heaven.
I wish I could say that the fashion stands on its own – that without the wings I can see true experimentation that pushes the boundaries of fashion as we know it. But these dresses have been around for ages. They’re beautiful but boring.
On the other side of the spectrum, Azhar’s ready-wear outfits look like they just walked out of the Forever 21 window display (and those lace tights aren’t doing her any favors).
There was one shining beacon of elegance amongst this garishly accessorized wasteland of boring dresses – this classic sari. This one does push the boundaries of fashion with its interesting color palette – a somber maroon and midnight blue blend with gorgeous beadwork and embroidery – while sticking to the tried-and-true silhouette that’s flattering to so many women. I can even appreciate the giant earrings because they are unexpected, but not unattractive in their weirdness.
Strip away the wings and Azhar’s clothes have the potential to be truly beautiful. This line was just a small blemish on an otherwise illustrious and successful history of making gorgeous dresses.
