Manish Malhotra, i.e. the superstar of Indian fashion. Enough said? Well, we're just getting started. Not only does he look like a movie star, but Manish Malhotra is one of the most prized assets of the Indian film industry. A self-taught designer, Manish's career story from working for a Mumbai-based boutique to becoming one of the most sought-after designers in India is awe-inspiring. A bridal outfit by this fashion guru is sure to add a posh flavour to your big fat Indian wedding. So, let's have a look at his breathtaking designs of 2013-2014.

The year that was: 2013

The Delhi Couture Week 2013 was the talk of the town, where Manish stole the show with his gorgeous bridal collection of lehengas and anarkalis. Inspired by the princely states of the 1930s, Manish's outlines and embroideries showcased the revival of a long-forgotten Indo-European relationship. The theme of the evening was definitely navy blue, where Deepika Padukone stole the show in a navy blue Manish Malhotra lehenga adorned with silver embroidery and crystals. He also showcased some other breathtaking designs for brides and grooms in bold oranges and reds and subtler beiges.

When asked about his inspiration behind this theme, the UK-born fashion demigod stated that, 'In the 1930s, India was a country trying to find her voice. It was the age of opulence, and of affluence. Even as viceroys conducted matters of state, kings, queens, princes and princesses ruled over their own domains. The cross-cultural ties created a very unique genre of fashion and culture, which I am very inspired by. Whether in the fabrics, royalty and the ruling class favoured, and the silhouettes they wore, or in the architecture, and the art, there was cross-pollination at work. While designing this collection, I could imagine a Maharani, dressed in a layered lehenga ensemble, embellished with antique gold, walking down a corridor with her entourage, to meet the Viceroy in his regalia. Their conversations, conducted through a screen, echoed in my mind.'

Looking ahead: 2014

Lakme Fashion Week is incomplete without Manish Malhotra. Just as he wowed the crowd with his unique theme and designs in 2013, his 2014 collection promised bridal prints that would leave the beholder pining for more. His 'Summer Affair' collection was the most anticipated show of the year, and as usual, Manish did not disappoint. He opened LFW with Sonakshi Sinha on his arm, who wore a trailing, navy blue (surprise surprise!) kurta with bold white embroidery to set the mood for an ethereal collection of grey, powder blue, ivory, beige and floral, floor-hugging outlines, deep backs, and flowing sheers, coupled with bold, standout embroidery. The men were done up in signature Manish Malhotra jodhpuris, shirt kurtas and skinny churidar pants, yet loyal to the midsummer ethereal theme. In short, LFW was commenced with a bang!

It'll be much fun to see what else this king of bridal couture has in store for us this 2014.

The Bollywood connection

Manish Malhotra is an unrivalled brand name that has ruled Bollywood for over two decades now. He has designed for the likes of Sridevi and Kajol as well as Alia Bhatt. He has won innumerable accolades and awards for his outfits in movies ranging from 'Rangeela' to 'Chennai Express'.

At LFW 2013, he paid tribute to 100 years of Indian cinema, where the belles and beaus of B-town graced the ramp in signature MM designs that honoured the different eras of Bollywood, from the black and white age of the 40s and 50s, to the hippy era of the 70s, and the chiffon sarees of the 90s. Though many stars shone on the ramp that evening, it was the duo of Kajol, in a sexy lace blouse and neon saree, and Karisma Kapoor, in a white anarkali with a quirky orange border, that stole the show. In fact, ace designer Christian Louboutin, who was present at the show, was so taken up with the classy clothier that he expressed a wish to collaborate with him in future.

In conclusion, Manish Malhotra's achievements are endless, and we could ramble on about why his designs would be the perfect wedding present that you'll give yourself. However, the most important reason is that his designs are truly evergreen. They will never run out of style. As they say, who you are reflects in your actions and in the work you do. Well, ladies and gents, Manish Malhotra is sheer class all the way.