Fashion
CHECK OUT THESE ‘STAY AT HOME CHIC’ LOOKS!
Ramadan greetings! In these strange times, this occasion will be more close-knit than before. But this doesn’t mean it will be any less festive. Over the month of Ramadan, Indian, Pakistani and Arab designers have come up with the most exciting fashion collections, something to look forward to when we won’t have to social distance from all.
And for now, since staying in is the new going out, we’re looking to these designers who are also serving up some temporary “stay at home chic" looks. Motivation is on its way, and for now, we dress up as much as we can!
COZY KAFTANS – NOT YOUR AVERAGE NIGHTIE
I’ve been hearing from many a friend that they wake up each morning in their nighties/pajamas, shower, then change into another set of nighties/pajamas. Why? Dress up and feel good when working from home, working for your home or just to do nothing at all – after all, self-care is not self-ish.
Enter kaftans. Long, flowy, loose-ish dress-like ensembles. Beautiful formal pieces are of course being introduced for Eid season, but how to wear them at home? Simpler. Linen and cotton kaftans in pastel or bright summer shades exude elegance and comfort, which equals confidence. They make me think of tropical weather and the beaches too, very Florida. I love it! Light embroidery, mirrorwork or stonework can sparkle some more for a perfect Zoom or WhatsApp family video call (or, have a photoshoot outside, cuz why not?). Not into very loose looks? Opt for a belt to cinch it all together!
THE TUNIC – THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT
So, kurtis, anarkalis and straight suits all have one thing in common – a long flowing tunic. You can almost wear any one as a dress, as long as there are no deep side slits or sheerness throughout.
But to keep in touch with the Ramadan season and proper Indian fashion, keep the bottom churidar or straight pants and pair with the lovely long kameez. Any top below the knee works here, more fitted obviously than its kaftan counterpart. Linens, cottons and georgettes will feel the best in these heated months. Keep to light, neutral shades for a more casual feel. A shiny sapphire blue floor length kurti with gold butti work will really have you wanting to get out and celebrate, but an ivory or blush anarkali kameez with silver butti work will keep you staying home safe and happy. In short, keep your kurtis/kameezes long.
LOOKING FORWARD – BUT KEEPING PRESENT
And what are the Indian fashion predictions looking like? In keeping present with our situations, let’s also look ahead and feel inspired for the upcoming months!
Bright and bold colors are coming back in the style bucket. Deep pinks, greens and purples are super saturated and screaming to be seen. Heavier gold and silver jewels are all over runways and shows, dripping with ornaments of polki and mirrorwork, ghungroos and tassels. Basically, like us, our clothes and jewels cannot wait to see the world again.
Lockdowns, curfews and quarantines are part of our everyday lives lately. Maybe they’ll be over by the time you’re reading this – maybe not. Either way, stay safe, stay positive and stay happy. Because no matter what, spreading light and love to all around, even one person or animal, does make a great big impact. 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 [email protected] or visit www.facebook.com/grostyles