“If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.”

― Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

Leaving behind the innate dreariness of a season like winter, the soul welcomes the warmth of summer, the joy of spring, when everything is bright and lively and there is inspiration all around. What could be more inspiring than a thriving garden under the soft summer sun? A burst of color, the vibrance of nature, the reds from roses, hot pink hibiscus, delicate pastels of blooming daisies, a haven where you can go away to bask in the newness of the season. A glittering pond brings in the sparkle, and the rays of sunshine bouncing off dew drops are the inspiration of a touch of glitter and that is the premise of Varun Bahl’s SS ’23 Couture collection – The Secret Garden.

 A collection that features bridal lehengas, fun breezy styles, and playful silhouettes that complement the season, all brought together in the classic stylings of Varun Bahl to make a showcase that is nothing short of stunning. The ensembles are adorned with delightful summer blossom-inspired corsages, and elements like seashells, and feathers to bring forth the presence of nature as an inspiration. Varun Bahl’s statement printless embroidery takes on a whole new dimension where prints are converted into embroidery using appliques and delicate resham threadwork.

Daytime styles include ivory embroidery on shades of peaches where natural pieces like seashells come into play, the pieces are embellished with plenty of bling and sparkle which makes them both fun and extremely glamorous. There is a sense of playful drama with the use of tassels, creating layers of design in each outfit. This collection also features unique two tones in patchwork, with ‘summer bright’ which has pastel shades of lehengas, yellow to bring in the summer sun, and peach shades to add a sense of freshness. Then there are the Bridal tones, red, and hot pinks with traditional zardozi embroidery but as a unique patchwork pattern. The use of sustainable patchwork has gone on to become a Varun Bahl statement style, it is a distinctive feature that takes a casual design element and escalates it into a couture marvel using sustainable patchwork

The bold floral motifs are a refreshing reminder of a season where everything flourishes, bold bodices, flowing capes and light jacket coveralls, voluminous skirts, sheer dupattas, and razor-sharp cuts make for silhouettes that are superbly flattering.  Each element is handcrafted, from intricate florets to vivid blossoms, the juxtaposition of pastels and striking tones makes this collection a true tribute to a ‘Secret Garden’.