Bridal couture belts are re-establishing themselves as the ultimate power detail     

Bridal couture belts have always existed in Indian wedding fashion. Think gold kamarbandhs and glittering temple jewellery, cinching waists with pearls and jewels. The contemporary bride has an array of choices to adorn herself with, and this sartorial detail feels both traditional and modern.

An accessory from history 

The kamarbandh (or patka) is an ancient waist accessory from the Indian subcontinent, worn by both men and women for centuries as ornamental jewellery, a functional belt to hold weapons or money, and a symbol of status, fertility, and grace. It evolved from Indus Valley civilisation jewellery through Mughal courts, influenced Western formal wear (cummerbund) during British colonial times, and has remained a significant cultural piece in bridal and traditional attire today. 

Tarun Tahiliani Emerald Green Crystals, Brooches, Stones Jewelled Belt, ₹19,900

Its usage was widespread in ancient India, from the Indus Valley civilisation, where women wore chains made of gold, silver an beads as everyday wear, to Vedic India where sculptures of deities like Lord Krishna and royalty were often adorned with it, the belt had functionality as men used fabric versions (Patka) for practical purposes, storing weapons or money, while ornate metallic ones (Kamarbandh) signified wealth and power for both genders.

In the Mughal court, kamarbandhs were opulent accessories, integral to courtly attire for both men and women. Eventually, the British Raj banned women from wearing waist jewellery publicly, viewing it as indecent, even as they predictably adopted its functional aspects.

Reimagining the bridal belt through the lens of designers 

Today’s bridal couture belts celebrate tradition with a contemporary aesthetic. You’ll see them gently resting over fluid lehengas, defining a sari drape without overpowering it, or adding glam to a monochrome ensemble with just enough texture or sparkle.

Modern bridal fashion is increasingly about refinement over excess. Brides are choosing cleaner silhouettes, lighter embroideries, and more relaxed constructions—and couture belts fit seamlessly into this shift. A belt can give and add definition without additional layers, and in fact help structure it with precision, offering a neat and styled look.

Depending on the size and embellishments, the contrast can also be the focal point of the look. It’s a small addition, but one that suggests the bride has put thought into every detail.

Sabyasachi Bengal Black The Tiger Carved Belt, ₹29,900

From statement pieces to subtle accents 

Be it for the pheras, the sangeet or even a playful mehendi look, there is a bridal belt for every occasion. There are slender belts embroidered in the same threadwork as the lehenga, designed to blend in but still sharpen the silhouette. Pearl strands sit gently at the waist, adding softness. Fabric and corset belts are crafted to feel like they’re part of the overall outfit. Then there are the spotlight-stealers, from sculptural gold belts, crystal-studded cinchers, and opulent kamarbandhs. 

Aditi Gupta  Red Pearls Meenakari Kundan Belt, ₹9,350 

The cute factor: Where bridal meets playful

Perhaps the most interesting evolution of the bridal belt is how playful it has become. Bows tied at the back, slim belts and delicate chains layered over minimalist saris, bejewelled couture with matching belts. Especially for pre-wedding events, reception looks, or second outfits, belts can bring lightness to heavily considered looks.

What’s also driving the belt’s resurgence is how designers are designing around it rather than adding it as an afterthought. Couture belts today are crafted with the same care as blouses and dupattas: hand-embroidered, custom-fitted, and often detachable. Some are built to match the outfit perfectly; others are intentionally contrast-driven, meant to elevate multiple looks across wedding events. This approach turns the belt into a keepsake rather than a one-time accessory. Brides can re-wear it with saris, cocktail outfits, or even festive wear long after the wedding. 

Outhouse  Pink Crystals, Cut Work, Pearls Le Palmier Embellished Belt, ₹28,950 

Cinched at the waist, grounded in craft, and rich with meaning, the bridal belt is more than just an accessory; it’s a statement of classic femininity, styled with intention.

Lead image: Tarun Tahiliani 

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