FEBRUARY 2018
Khaas Baat : A Publication for Indian Americans in Florida

Fashion

DRESSING UP FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Kiran Bahl

By KIRAN BAHL

It’s the month of love! On Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day is a time of romance, love, family and friendship. Send good feelers to all, and look good doing it, too.

Some prefer spending the day of love alone with their romantic partner. Others may prefer a big celebration, a party to remember. Let’s choose both! The more, the merrier. Trends, too, have become a bit fun but royal, also a bit softer but edgier, to continue the Valentine’s vibe.

BANARASI/BROCADE

Banarasi seems to be everywhere on Indian runways lately. Lenghas, cholis and dupattas are being drenched in this rich looking fabric. Almost golden thread looking from afar, this foil-like print in mostly gold tones is adding a more traditional twist particularly to super modern wear.

Lenghas or saris can be accented lightly with banarasi work on the choli. For a bolder look, the entire sari or lengha itself can be in banarasi, along with a solid choli or dupatta. Suits with this print on the salwar or dupatta can look regal, especially worn along gold jewelry. For Valentine’s, opt for a deeper red and pink palette in this fabric for a truly romantic feel.

Brocade, too, is a close contender of the month alongside banarasi. However, the material is thicker, unlike the soft silks described above. It, too, has a mostly gold, foil like look, in simple or intricate patterns, but on heavier fabric. When wearing brocade as a dupatta, a shawl like appearance will give off major queen feels.

NEUTRAL HUES WITH A POP OF COLOR

I’m really into neutral hues lately, and better is the pop of color that’s updating the ethereal feel. A beige anarkali gown with bright pink lips is super girly. A white or black sari or suit with red or burgundy lips is sweet and sassy, with edge.

Also, neutrals don’t stop at black, white and beige. Try shades of brown and gray, even pastel shades such as pale yellows, blues, and pinks. A gray sari with yellow heels, or a cocoa colored lengha with royal blue sandals, create a stark combo and stand out. Pretty and poised, ready for any Valentine’s soiree!

ODDS AND ENDS

Besides fusion wear taking over the runways throughout, I’ve noticed odds and ends, too. A dhoti pantsuit with uncut kundan work on neckline or dhoti line is eye catching. A crop top and lengha set with organza or tissue vest is couture. Even a heavily tassled dupatta can make heads turn, the unexpected is almost expected this season!

Beautiful chiffon or silk saris are being adorned with leather trim. Feather or ruffle work on cholis is super popular, too. Basically, it’s all about being proper with some rebellion.

Happy Valentine’s Day, Khaas Baat readers! Love each other, with the biggest heart you have. If the love doesn’t come back, its okay, know you’ve loved all you possibly could. Stay safe, party hard, love harder, and as always, remember to ‘gro’ with style!

Kiran Bahl of Gro Styles, “An Indian Boutique” in Tampa, can be reached at (813) 843-9040, e-mail kiran@grostyles.com or visit www.facebook.com/grostyles

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