Bridal couture often positions itself as a timeless fantasy, steeped in tradition and seemingly untouched by changing times. Yet this perception of an ivory tower is somewhat deceptive; bridal couture is as much a business as any other fashion genre, mirroring the cultural and economic realities of its time. 

Hyundai India Couture Week, in association with Reliance Brands, an initiative by Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) held from July 24 to 31 in Delhi, showcased the 2024 collections from a roster of designers. By the end of the event, we had seen over 500 looks—an overwhelming variety of lehengas, celebrity cameos and social media content. We flagged moments to revisit: some stuck with us because they made us smile, others sparked mixed reactions. Despite designers playing it safe and doubling down on their signature styles, there was still plenty of excitement. Here, we present six collections that show bridal couture with stories and shine, and explore what they can add to your wardrobe.