How the phool dupatta became 2025’s dreamiest bridal statement
Once a whisper of tradition, now a statement of bridal luxury—the phool dupatta is in full bloom, reclaiming its place in the modern Indian wedding with style, scent, and symbolism.
Some trends slip away quietly; others return in full bloom—fresh, fragrant, and unmistakably of the moment. The phool dupatta, once a delicate nod to tradition, is having a striking revival in bridal fashion. With petal-lined veils and cape-style florals now a signature at Haldi and Mehendi celebrations, this once-ceremonial piece has been reimagined as a statement of modern elegance.
We spoke to Srishti Kapur, founder of Floral Art, whose handcrafted creations have become a favourite among brides seeking to reinterpret tradition. “The floral dupatta isn’t entirely new—we’ve designed it for many brides over the years,” she says. “But it’s gained fresh momentum, especially after Radhika Merchant wore it so effortlessly. That moment really brought it back into the spotlight, especially for pre-wedding events where floral jewellery is now styled with a more contemporary flair.”
Botanical couture
The beauty of the phool dupatta lies in its transience. Made from delicate blooms like marigolds, orchids, baby’s breath, daisies, and jasmine tagar buds, the floral drape adds more than just colour—it brings a sensory presence, softly fragrant and visually ethereal. Each flower contributes its own texture and emotion: marigolds radiate energy, baby’s breath softens silhouettes, while white jasmine evokes a nostalgic touch of tradition.
The popular “tagar kali jal” look—featuring cascading jasmine buds—has especially resonated in 2025, seen everywhere from high-profile destination Haldis in Jaipur to minimal Mehendis in boutique villas across Goa. The appeal? It enhances the atmosphere without overwhelming it—a living accessory that responds to movement, light, and time.
Rethinking the ritual look
If 2024’s standout moment was Radhika Merchant’s marigold dupatta, styled effortlessly by Rhea Kapoor, 2025 has only pushed the trend further. In February, fashion-forward brides in Mumbai began commissioning hybrid dupattas in stole-like cuts, while Delhi-based stylists experimented with cape formats and shoulder drapes using daisies and mogra to create sculptural silhouettes.
As Kapur notes, “Clients are also experimenting with silhouettes—some opt for stole sizes, others convert it into a cape or jacket.” The versatility means the phool dupatta doesn’t just drape, it dresses—elevating even the simplest outfit into something magazine-worthy, without relying on embroidery or embellishment.
The flowered finale of pre-wedding dressing
As Haldi and Mehendi functions evolve into intimate, styled affairs—complete with coordinated décor, curated playlists, and Pinterest-worthy moodboards—the floral dupatta has taken on a new role: less accessory, more centrepiece. It bridges ritual and runway, blending spirituality with modern aesthetics. And in an age where bridalwear is deeply personal, custom floral borders are now tailored to match not just the outfit, but the bride’s individuality.
“There’s something beautifully effortless about it,” says Kapur. “It’s a lovely way to accessorise a simple Haldi outfit and adds a unique, personal touch. This trend is definitely here to stay.”
A fleeting creation that leaves a lasting impression—the phool dupatta captures everything today’s bride desires: romance, individuality, and an ode to tradition without the weight of it. As fashion continues to flirt with the natural and ephemeral, these petal-draped statements are blooming with relevance—and redefining what bridal beauty looks, feels, and even smells like.
Lead image: Instagram/ floralartbysrishti
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