INTRICATE EMBROIDERY, SEQUINS ARE THE RAGE

With hurricane season nearing an end, it�s time to party. October includes many holidays, one important being Diwali, the Festival of Lights. There�s so much to celebrate, enjoy and dress up for.

Traditional looks are back in full swing. Top designers in India, from Ritu Kumar to Manish Malhotra, are shifting to more folk looks. Bright, contrasting colors are still the basis for clothing, but works filled with intricate embroidery and sequins are the rage. Lehngas and chaniya cholis are fast becoming the �it� item. Shorter, yet traditional looking blouses complete the look for fuller, more elaborate skirts. Salwar kameezes are becoming more and more elaborate. Slim-style pants, or churidaars, and shorter, more fitted knee-length tops are the style in easy-on-the-eye shades, such as dark pinks, reds, browns and purples. Simple stripes and subtle floral prints also are popping up in runways all over.

Women, take your outfits and accessorize. From full jewelry sets, including large earrings, full necklaces and tikkas, to thick bangles and colorful bangle/churiyaan sets, enhancing your favorite outfits can alter their look. Try experimenting, contrasting two or more shades of bangles instead of just one on both wrists. Add fancier bangles/kadas at the sides to produce a complete ensemble. Hand-to-wrist pieces, nose rings and anklets/paayal are gaining popularity as well. This month, pull off a solid colored outfit and dress it up with colorful accessories.

For elaborate Diwali celebrations and gatherings, opt for more formal, beaded looks. Sequins, bright embroidery and glitter and flash are in style. Even men�s formal fashions include intricate, mirrored works. Soft chiffons and silks are easily taking over the traditional cotton/georgette looks, especially in the sari department. Focus on darker, more solid colors and emphasize on limited beadwork or embroidery without overdoing it. A little can go a long way, especially with accessories to add to your ensemble.

It�s the men�s turn to sharpen up their looks. Fancy but lightweight materials are popular. Like women�s fashion, neutral colors remain prominent, but with more complex designs, including floral prints. Foil work and glasswork embedded in a variety of designs add the right flair for any occasion, big or small.

Enjoy the month, and here�s wishing you all a healthy, happy and prosperous Diwali. And as always, remember to gro with style!

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