The nights have begun to be effectively longer with navratri on in full swing. Whether it be pandal or gollu hopping, looking festive is mandatory. And, if its dandiya and garba that’s on the cards, a leaf out of Deepika’s Goliyon ki Raasleela, Ram-leela look will do you just fine. Here’s how you can up your fashion ante this festive season.
Bling-bling
There can be no other better time in the year than these months when you can boldly sport a whole lot of bling. Remember metallic accents have made a huge comeback this season, so be sure to include gold-finish accessories to your look. A metallic cummerbund or ear-cuff can be both edgy and festive at the same time. And, if you’re really looking to experiment pair a gold bandeau blouse or bralet with your lehenga or saree.
Do Handloom
Give the designer sarees a break and embrace your ethnic side with handloom or woven silks. “It’s the only time of year that I take out my tussars and jute silks and wear them for Durga Pujo,” says Rukmani K., who looks forward to pandal hop during this season. “I recently bought an exquisite handloom saree from Raw Mango that I plan to wear this time,” she says.
Simple and elegant, hand-woven silks spell class. Sanjay Garg’s Raw Mango, Abraham & Thakore, and Gaurang are labels that you can invest in this season. If you’re looking for a bit of kitsch with your handloom buy, Payal Khandwala’s edgy tunics that can be paired with a simple pair of white pants or Swati Vijaivargie’s dhoti pants or dresses will set you apart.
Dhol baaje
What can be more fun than a sexy choli with a full ghera lehenga? The rule to a perfect dandiya outfit is mirror work, mirror work and more mirror work. Sport the look in non-traditional colours like electric blue, neon greens and pinks. Arpita Mehta’s mirror work sarees, Anita Dongre’s stylish lehengas and Manish Malhotra’s mirror work skirts or long anarkalis are just the outfits for a fun evening.
Get creative
Don’t follow the rules and get innovative with your looks this festive season. Drape your saree over a pair of slim pants, or pair a short kurta over dhoti pants and enjoy the results. An Anamika Khanna is the perfect choice for such a look.
Don’t do the same old – same old blouse. Wear a white T-shirt like blouse, a la Konkona Sen, or collared, long-sleeved blouses like Rani Mukherjee. Or do short jackets and khotis that are in this season and instantly add glam to any outfit. And, why not look like a million bucks in a heavily embroidered Anju Modi lehenga or Ridhi Mehra outfit?