Before Uorfi Javed, Sonam Kapoor & 6 Other Models Wore A Breastplate

Ever since Uorfi Javed stepped out wearing a metallic-toned breastplate with a partially draped saree, breastplates have gone viral! The fashionista teamed up with DIY genius, Shweta Mahadik who took months to create the piece. While Uorfi’s risqué look is receiving mixed reviews from the audience, there was a time when breastplates like these created history in Indian fashion. Back in 1991, Indian couturier Suneet Varma debuted a breastplate on the Indian runways and caused quite a stir in the country.

Shyamoli Verma & Mehr Jesia

Suneet Varma designed the breastplate and saree combination thirty years ago, and to say it was ahead of its time would be an understatement! In 1991, he debuted his first metallic bustier at the Oberoi hotels in Delhi and Mumbai. The design was an ode to his favourite painting ‘The Birth Of Venus’ by Italian artist Sandro Botticelli. His first bustier and saree look was modelled by supermodels, Shyamoli Verma and Mehr Jesia. The models were asked to pose like the painting that inspired Suneet.

Sonam Kapoor & Alesia Raut

Suneet, who believes that “fashion is the politest way of speaking about sex,” even styled Sonam Kapoor in one of his gold breastplates for a photoshoot. Sonam looked like a boho princess right out of a fairytale in the plunging bustier paired with hippie arm accessories and a quirky neckpiece. Even model Alesia Raut wore the same breastplate draped over a saree.

India Bridal Week

At the India Bridal Week 2022, Suneet showcased his collection, The Golden Bracelet which had models don heavy, chunky golden bracelets and rings. Inspired by the clothing of Pompeii and the Roman era, the collection also featured a shiny gold breastplate teamed with a modishly draped saree.

Celebrating 35 Years!

In 2022, Suneet Varma celebrated his 35 years in fashion by hosting a special fashion show. The show featured elaborate lehengas and sarees punctuated with heavy embroidery work. The designer also took up this opportunity to pay tribute to his old designs like his iconic bustier! However, he did add a modern touch to it. One model wore his metallic silver plate with a ruched pink skirt and an exaggerated sheer, embellished cape. Another model wore the gold version with a partially draped sequin saree from his new collection.