Come Diwali every year, and I’m usually digging into my wardrobe for a newish Indian ensemble. And it’s usually a safe style, very me, but also very, very typical of me. This Diwali, I’m trying to be a bit different, drawing inspiration from some new looks. So I’ve put together a lookbook of sorts to get me going on the ideas. There’s still a week to Diwali (and this weekend I will be in India, yay!), and all of these ideas are easily doable. 😀
Of course I can’t try all of these ideas, but a girl can dream, can’t she?
Don a jacket
It can be short like a waistcoast or long like an anarkali, it could be embroidered or block printed… “A plain kurta paired with a printed or embroidered short jacket is the perfect alternative to a dupatta,” says Rahuul Jashnani, managing director of Jashn. “Button it or just let it loose, or wear it on your sari for a bold and edgy and daring look.” I agree.
(Looks from Jashn)
Go long, long, long
If you’re a vertically-challenged like me, then long silhouettes can be quite exciting. Plus longer the length, the grander you look, and the more elegant you feel.
(Kurta set from Anju Modi, long kaftan from Hemant & Nandita)
Or go very traditional
Gota, bandhini, leheriya—our cultural heritage has plenty of fabric, print, texture and embellishment options to choose from.
(Looks featuring gota and shibori techniques from Rangriti)
Wrap a gorgeous dupatta
I’m moving on from mere contrast dupattas. I’d rather wrap a stunning dupatta around me to draw the attention. I’m in love with these ones from Gaurang, or something embellished-border like this one below.
(Look from Sahiba)
Try a shirt-like blouse with a sari
It may seem that only Sonam Kapoor can pull off a shirt with a sari. Maybe yes, maybe no. Well, we won’t know till we try it, right?
(Sonam Kapoor wearing Anupama Dayal)
Sport a bindi
I’m not even talking about Gwen Stefani here. It’s Indian, so why not place a cute bindi on the forehead? So feminine!
(Bindis from Bookmybindi.com)
Mix shades in jewellery
Gold and white are a classic combo, but well, it’s a little safe. I love admiring jewellery with coloured stones- blue, pink, green…. “A mix of diamond, polki and jadau jewellery with bright colourful gemstones in innovative ways and eclectic styles add appeal to any outfit,” says Aakas Barmecha of Yoube Jewellery.
(Earrings from Yoube Jewellery, Pendant-earrings set from Swarovski)
Which stylish idea or trend inspires you most this Diwali?
Women walked freely wearing body-hugging bodices with gathered skirts. We loved the abstract digital prints inspired from flora. I’d love to wear them!
