A lehenga choli is one of the most popular ethnic garments produced and exported by India. In terms of grace and beauty, an Indian leheng is at par with the Indian saree. This is probably one of the reasons why many would-be-brides are opting for a bridal lehenga instead of the timeless saree.

If traced back in history of traditional garments, this outfit was essentially a royal dress very elaborate and fine creations by the wives and daughters of the mighty, tasteful Mughal emperors. Therefore, many brides-to-be pick up this look for their wedding that is undoubtedly the biggest day in the bride's life.

A lehenga consists of three components, a pleated skirt, a well-fitted blouse and a stole to cover the chest region of the wearer.

The dress is considered to have originated in Rajasthan and Gujarat, but the dress was amended and glamourized after Mughals started acquiring regions of the Indian sub continent. This dress then became an instant success as it was elegant, royal, feminine and stylish in every way. Since then the feminine and sexy lehenga has gone through many modifications with designer reinventing and modifying the dupatta, choli and lehenga every year.

These days lehenga cholis are designed in silk, georgette, faux georgette, chiffon, cotton, net, tissue and faux chiffon. All these fabrics are embellished further depending on the budget and personal taste of the person who has commissioned the dress. The embellishments can again vary from brocade, appliqu© work, patch work, thread embroidery, tie and dye, bead embroidery, multicolored stone embroidery, zardousi work, mirror work or designs made with shells.

Most popular styles of lehengas:

Straight cut: A straight cut lehenga suits most women. This style especially looks elegant on women with bulky hips. This cut helps create an illusionary slimming effect.

Panelled: This style of lehenga provides more flare to the dress and hence can be converted into a more colourful, designer outfit. The designers can also create different embroideries or colour combinations on each panel and stitch them all together, which again will result in a masterpiece.

Fish tail or mermaid skirt: This style consists of a fitted skirt on the thigh area that flares at the bottom. This style is also very stylish and makes the lady look surprisingly ravishing.

Circular skirt: This style of lehenga is the probably the oldest variation of the garment that has a lot of pleats all around the waistline. This cut best suits women with an athletic body. These pleats provide volume and grace to the skirt portion of the garment.

A lehenga saree is also an interesting option to dress a lady for a traditional do.