The Dress With Rokeya Khanum

The Journey

I designed my own wedding dress and had it made in India—it was essential for me to honour the rich craftsmanship and intricate artistry of South Asian heritage. Rather than navigating endless bridal appointments, I knew from the start that I wanted something deeply personal. Collaborating closely with Khanum’s, we refined every detail to create a design that was a true reflection of me—blending tradition with a contemporary edge. It wasn’t about playing it safe; it was about crafting something both timeless and unique—a dress that told my story through its intricate details and cultural roots.

The Vision

I had a clear vision from the start—lace, embellishment, and a dramatic two-metre train with a matching veil. Classic in silhouette yet striking in detail, I wanted something that felt both timeless and impactful, a seamless blend of elegance and intricacy. Every element was meticulously considered, ensuring the final design was a true reflection of my style and story.

The Decision

I wasn’t the typical bride who became overly emotional about the dress. Of course, it was a significant moment, but I wasn’t overly attached to it—my focus was always on marrying the love of my life. I wanted to channel my energy into what truly mattered rather than getting consumed by the dress. The process felt exciting and intentional rather than overwhelming. I knew exactly what I wanted, so it was less about deliberation and more about bringing that vision to life.

Style Support

My team at Khanum’s and my bride tribe helped me decide on accessories and hair, but I’ve always been a decisive bride, so the process was effortless. I valued their input, but I stayed true to my vision—it was more about refining the details than second-guessing any decisions.

The Evening Look

For the evening, I wore a Khanum’s dress with a halter neck and delicate lace details—elegant yet effortlessly comfortable. Changing was a necessity; my daytime dress had a two-metre train, and there was no way I could have fully enjoyed the party in it! I’m a little gutted that I didn’t get any photos—I was too busy having fun and soaking up every moment. But in a way, that’s a testament to how present I was, and I wouldn’t change that for anything.

The Accessories

The shoes had to be Jimmy Choos—simple, classic, and effortlessly elegant. I kept my accessories refined, opting for Alessandra Rich pearl earrings to complement the look without overpowering it. My veil was custom-made by Khanum’s to perfectly match my dress, ensuring every detail was seamless. I wanted the dress to take centre stage, so every piece was chosen to enhance rather than compete with the overall vision.

The Second Day Outfit

For the second day, I chose a white Khanum’s dress—an unconventional choice, yet deeply rooted in South Asian heritage and intricate craftsmanship. I wanted a look that felt fresh and unique while still honouring tradition. White struck the perfect balance—classic yet modern in its execution, embodying both elegance and individuality.

Advice For Brides

Start early and book as many consultations as you need, but don’t wait too long to begin the dress-making process. Allow plenty of time for multiple fittings to ensure it’s absolutely perfect. Most importantly, prioritise functionality—you’ll be moving, greeting guests, and celebrating, so you don’t want to be struggling with your dress. And whatever you do, take as many photos as possible! You’ll be so caught up in the moment that it’s easy to forget, but trust me—you’ll want those memories captured.

Favourite Photo Of The Dress

This photo captures the essence of my dress perfectly—elegant, timeless, and rich with intricate details. The way the lace train flows behind me is exactly how I envisioned it—making a statement without overpowering the look. The soft lighting, the setting, and the movement of the fabric create a dreamy, almost cinematic moment. It’s effortlessly regal, beautifully showcasing the balance between modernity and tradition in my design.