A quintessential blend of silk threads from the past with a handful of killer confidence, and some sprinkle of modern magic - let’s unravel Sobhita’s wedding style playbook, the saree edition!
For many Indian brides, the haute hunt for the perfect wedding look leads straight to ornately embellished lehengas. Not Sobhita Dhulipala though. The Made in Heaven star took the refreshingly unorthodox (and, honestly, with daring edge) path - embracing the timeless charm of the classic Kanjeevaram saree with a wink at convention for her wedding to Naga Chaitanya on December 4, 2024.
So, what went down the aisle (besides the newly-weds)? Let’s break it down.
On the big fat wedding day, Sobhita delivered a standout sartorial moment in a vintage gold Kanjeevaram tissue saree designed by Gaurang Shah. Now, this wasn’t just any saree - it was a handcrafted wonder saturated with authentic gold zari work, reflecting traditional South Indian heritage laced with queenly extravagance.
(@sobhitad/Instagram)
The plush gold threads on the classic six-yards caught every ray of Hyderabad’s wedding-day sun, and the fabric’s weight added on a feeling of occasion and celebration. Sobhita, however, kept it very subtle and easy with her signature cool-girl composure.
Yes yes, we know that the gold palette may feel OTT, but Sobhita’s clever styling softened the shimmer with structured sophistication.
Notice how instead of intensive embroidery, her Kanjeevaram saree only featured delicate detailings. Her blouse was tailored to a T, one can say almost architectural - with capped sleeves and a snug - a very minimal fit.
(@bollywoodshaadis/Instagram)
Jewelry Game
When it came to jewellery, Sobhita kept it classic - with layered temple necklaces, statement jhumkas, stack of traditional gold bangles, and a maang tikka. But what's “modern” about such traditional Indian jewellery, you might ask. Well, the pieces are chunky, bold, modish, and are styled in a way that’s more dreamscape than dress code.
(@bollywoodshaadis/Instagram)
For the couples’ Pelli Kuthuru ceremony, Sobhita stunned in a red-and-gold silk saree that exuded retro Telugu dramatic flair. However, even in classic and solid colors, the bride stirred in a dash of now - with soft glam makeup, fresh flowers (no “slicked-back-power-bun” here!), adding a sharp contrast to her fluid silhouette.
(@shobitad/Instagram)
The draping was slightly relaxed, a tad bit asymmetrical - quietly subversive in its simplicity. Her blouse, featuring a plunging neckline, traded frumpy fashion for runway-ready polish.
She put on layers of antique gold bangles, but skipped the belt this time - allowing the saree's pallu to breathe in the breeze, adding an avant-garde edge.
(@weddingworldpage/Instagram)
(@bollywoodshaadis/Instagram)
For the mangalsutra tying ritual, Sobhita Dhulipala donned a mesmerizing hand-charka woven white Khadi saree featuring ornate red silk zari borders, designed again by Gaurang Shah. This classic, hand-woven Khadi fabric was sourced from Ponduru, Andhra Pradesh.
Styled by Eka Lakhani, Sobhita paired her ensemble with heavy temple jewelry including layered gold necklaces, matha patti, jhumkas, and traditional bangles.
Her hair was done in a classic gajra-adorned bun. She opted for nude makeup, only highlighting her kohl-rimmed eyes. Her dainty drape epitomized naturalness while cherishing the actress’ Telugu roots - crafting a perfect balance of heritage and timeless bridal elegance grounded in culture - that elevated her style to goddess-like grace.
(@sobhitad/Instagram)
Here are some quick tips inspired by Sobhita’s wedding looks that’ll make your own kanjeevaram styling moments Instagram worthy.
Always opt for modern cuts - cap sleeves, unique back cuts, or delicate padding for structure.
Go for a fresh, dewy skin makeup look, with a bold lip tinge if you dare. Just keep it effortless.
The best way to embrace both tradition and modernity is by layering statement temple necklaces with clean-lined ear jewellery.
When it comes to accessorizing, trade those heavy headpieces for flowers, pearls, or a slicked-back bun.
Draping is the key. Experiment with the pallu - how would you like it? Over the shoulder, semi-cape style, or pleated and pinned? Go ahead, make your best choice.
Sobhita Dhulipala’s wedding wardrobe confirms that one can respectfully and chicly marry (pun intended) tradition and modernism, channeling age-old elegance with a fresh twist.
Kanjeevaram sarees aren’t meant for just classic bridal wear, they’re for anyone who's ready to breathe fresh energy and modern attitude into time-honored textiles. Happy styling!
