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Shisha or Abhla kaam, commonly called mirror work, is one of the oldest and most recognisable embroidery techniques in India. It began in the 17th century in Rajasthan and Gujarat, where artisans stitched small mirrors onto fabric with metallic thread. Originally, these glinting accents were more than decorative. Many believed the mirrors warded off evil and brought light to desert living.
One of its most iconic moments came in 2002, when Madhuri Dixit embodied Chandramukhi in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas. Designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla created a 10-kilo lehenga made of ten panels covered in real mirror pieces and zardozi embroidery. It took two months to finish, and the lehenga was later displayed at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London as part of its Fabric of India show.
Bollywood celebrities have also poured out love for the embellishment technique. Actor Khushi Kapoor was seen wearing champagne sharara finished with mirror edging for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s Haldi ceremony and even going for a floral saree sharara set with mirror work while promoting her film Loveyapa, while Sonam Kapoor made a case for maximalism in a mirrored lehenga by Abhinav Mishra and Sophie Choudry also tapped into the trend with a Liz Paul creation with hand embroidery and signature mirrorwork.
Over time, this evergreen craft has travelled and evolved, so if you’re building your bridal trousseau or simply love a touch of shimmer, these designers are keeping mirror work relevant
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Geometric mirror work with playful hues and flowing silhouettes, his Kalbeliya collection is perfect for daytime weddings and sundowner celebrations.
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Ahir embroidery mirror work lehengas, sarees with mirror borders, and festive-ready co-ord sets, Mehta’s pieces are equal parts chic and vibrant.
This label brings maximalist glamour to life with mirror detailing on bold, dramatic silhouettes, and their mirror-jali dupatta is a true standout.
A go-to for brides who love understated sparkle, Vani’s designs feature delicate mirror embroidery paired with feminine drapes and soft shades of pink and mauve.
Frontier Raas gives mirror work across classic lehengas and contemporary sarees to suit both grand weddings and festive gatherings.
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If you’re looking for glamour, Seema Gujral’s mirror-studded gowns and lehengas deliver. Her collections features bold cuts, shimmer-heavy fabrics, and intricate handwork.