DO’S AND DON’TS THIS FESTIVE SEASON!
Happy Diwali and New Year, Khaas Baat readers! Let’s enjoy this joyous month with fireworks of love, laughs and peace everywhere. Family and friends are of utmost importance, so let them know how much we appreciate them and let them know how much they are needed. It’s time to shine, too. As we transition from one holiday season to the next, let’s read about some tips to help!
DO wear jewels!
Ladies, to jewel or not to jewel isn’t a problem this season. Jewel away! Necklaces are back, and with vengeance! Kundan and antiqued finish jewelry sets are in, with earrings being medium to long length. Necklaces are mostly dainty, adding just enough bling to the larger than life earrings some of us wear. Just getting used to the big earrings phase with no necklace? I know it can be hard to readjust to the necklace once again. But the look is in, and how royal a full jewelry set can be with the right anarkali or sari! When wearing a full set though, opt to not also wear a tikka, or forehead piece, unless to a wedding or similar occasion. The face will seem overwhelmed.
Payal or anklets, baajubands or armbands, and nose rings are in too, but more in a vintage-looking style, versus the crystal or stone looks usually sported. Heels are high and colorful, try a purple or blue shade versus the neutral gold or black. Shoes can make your look pop!
DO focus on the dupatta!
Those months of not wearing a dupatta, or long scarf, with your outfit or even kurti and leggings is no more. I personally will never know where it came from, as a dupatta completes the Eastern ensemble always. Now, it’s almost mandatory to wear it. Complete your anarkali or churidaar, no matter how covered, with a lace or sequined dupatta. A sheer or lightweight one will balance a heavier outfit. A kurti and legging look with a chiffon dupatta instantly glams up for any event too.
DON’T go overboard with textures!
Runways are sporting almost every texture in their collections, from lace and tissue, to sequins and silk. The trick is to know when too much is too much.
Keep your look within a three to four texture range. Usually, one or two fabrics together are enough, but with fusion and blended looks becoming popular, go ahead and add a few more. A net lengha with velvet work is pretty. Adding stone workings and a multicolor brocade border is even prettier, and in the trend. But adding furthermore silk sleeves and heavily sequined dupatta will be too much. You never want the eye distracted, only focused, especially when the eyes are on you!
Happy Diwali and New Year once again. Diwali is the festival of lights, a time of shine and happiness. Be safe, be happy, and as always, remember to ‘gro with style’!
Kiran Bahl of Gro Styles, “An Indian Boutique” in Tampa, Orlando and Sunrise, can be reached at (813) 843-9040, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.facebook.com/grostyles