Kiran Bahl

Greetings! With the coming of the holiday season next month, we�re looking forward to Diwali and Eid with lots of anticipation. In this article, let�s focus on the Do�s and Don�ts of �it� fashion, so we�re prepared to start the holiday season full of elegance, style and trend.

DO wear similar colors together.

A while back, it was unheard of to wear pink and red together, or combine green and yellow in one outfit. Now, things have changed. The �now� colors of fashion combinations are lilac and navy blue, and flaming red and orange shades. Of course, these odd combinations require dimmer jewelry tones, such as a simple silver or gold jewelry set and bangles, to keep your look fresh and updated. Too much color will end up making you look clowny, not classy.

DO wear different metals in one outfit.

Silver and gold together? Yes! Fashion runways internationally are displaying beautiful lenghas and saris with a combination of gold sets and silver bangles, or gold jhumkas with a silver/diamond necklace. Even fancier outfits, such as crepe sequin-encrusted lenghas or chiffon embroidered saris are being adorned with gold and silver threading for a more dramatic effect.

DO try getting different manicure and pedicure colors, ladies.

Whether you get your nails done, or do them yourself, try the contemporary fashion way and purposely mismatch your finger and toe polish colors. Stick with neutral combos such as pink fingernails and beige toenails, or for a more fun and bold mood, maroon fingernails with hot pink toenails. The play of colors will make even the simplest outfit pop.

DON�T EVER, EVER, EVER wear flats with a sari.

True fashion does not care if you have the worst back problems, or if you �just don�t like heels.� If you choose to wear a sari, it is solely your decision. And if you make this decision, complete the look correctly. When wearing any sari, fancy or casual, for weddings or a pooja, heels are a must. Stilettos or wedges, the higher they are, the better they are. Match them to your jewelry and bangles to create a clean, sleek look. Shine even more with copper or bronzed jewel tones for your accessories, compared to the evergreen gold and silver looks.

DON�T combine jeans and a kurta pajama top, gentlemen.

Many of you are attempting to copy the Sanjay Dutt look in movies such as �Vaastav,� �Hathyaar,� or even �Munnabhai MBBS,� by pairing a white kurta pajama top with blue jeans. This gangster-from-the-village look should strictly remain in the village. Gentleman, keep your look sophisticated and rich by pairing those sexy blue jeans with a kurti. Kurtis are a bit shorter than kurtas, with a more fitted, edgier look. The linen and cotton blends keep you feeling fresh and lighter colors will help you feel cool in our hotter-than-ever Florida weather.

Keep these tips in mind, and always add your personal touch to create the perfect look for you. And for now, happy holidays! Stay safe and celebrate each day wholly and completely, with your most cherished family and friends. And as always, remember to gro with style!

Kiran Bahl of Gro Styles, �An Indian Boutique,� 2035 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33612, can be reached at (813) 843-9040 or (813) 903-8334.