Planning a wedding is no easy task, and bridal stylist Rashi M. Kapur knows that. From deciding the venue to creating a guest list, selecting a caterer to finding the perfect outfit, a brides to-do list never ends. Here’s where Rashi comes in.
The Mumbai-based stylist helps future brides, grooms, and families find the perfect outfit that match their personality and style. In this exclusive interview, she shares her personal journey, inspiration, and thoughts on how the concept of a trousseau has evolved over the years.
Tell us a little about yourself and your personal journey in fashion.
Rashi’s journey into fashion was unconventional, to say the least. Having initially pursued a career in finance, her passion for fashion had always been a part of her life. “I had always been fond of fashion,” she says. “Growing up, I was really into Indian fashion and trends.”
Rashi’s own wedding pictures went viral, attracting the attention of people who sought her advice and styling expertise. “At that point, it didn’t really strike me that this could be a probable career until my frustration with my job and eventually the pandemic led me to seriously consider it.”
What started as an idea to assist brides from overseas in shopping for their dream outfits in India has since evolved into a comprehensive styling service for women in India and across the world.
What inspired you to move towards bridal styling?
“My inspiration for bridal styling comes from my mom and mum-in-law,” says Rashi. “My mom has always encouraged me dress as a reflection of my personality. My mother-in-law is a designer and her personal style also inspired me a lot.” They did not just influence her fashion choices, but also encouraged her to think creatively and differently.
Rashi’s primary aim as a bridal stylist is to help brides dress as a genuine reflection of their unique personalities, rather than conforming to preconceived notions of what a bride should look like. “I give inputs that are a reflection of each bride. After all, I can’t expect a bride who loves minimalism to suddenly wear an over-the-top outfit and lose a part of herself. I want each bride to feel comfortable in what she wears on her wedding day.”
How has the trousseau evolved over the years?
“I remember my mother telling me that my grandmother gifted her 25 sarees as part of her trousseau,” reminisces Rashi. “When the time came for me to get married, she wanted me to have the same. But as I am not someone who opts for sarees often, we worked together to put together a more personalised trousseau.”
Over time and through generations, we’ve seen the trousseau change into something that truly reflects a woman’s personal tastes and style. Now, it goes beyond just the wedding and comprises of investment pieces that you can wear time and again.
Rashi believes that the concept of a trousseau is not limited to the bride alone. “The concept has become a lot more modern. Today’s trousseau has the most glam dresses, statement bags, and fun sunglasses or accessories.”
What should every woman have as part of her investment wardrobe?
“When it comes to investment, everybody has their own personal choices,” she says. Therefore personal preferences play a significant role in choosing these long-lasting investments. For Indianwear, Rashi recommends investing in timeless designers like Anamika Khanna, Tarun Tahiliani or Manish Malhotra. “Many people love to invest in bags, especially those that make a statement.” These pieces are timeless and can last for a long time, becoming fashion heirlooms.
Rashi’s own preference has shifted towards jewellery and bags. “I love bags–and it is important to build a good collection which remains stylish for decades and lasts you for that long as well.”
Rashi's Recommendations From The AiSPi Investment Trousseau Trunk Show
Rashi selects her favourites from the AiSPi Investment Trousseau Trunk Show.
Interviewing Rashi M Kapur, Written by Team AiSPi
All images are courtesy of the brands mentioned.
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