HERE’S SOME COLOR-COMBO ADVICE
Spring has arrived! And with that, we can celebrate the festival of colors, Holi! Sunny weather and fresh fruit are my favorite things about spring too! What does all this have to do with fashion, many of you are thinking? Lots. Let’s make Holi’s purpose our motto for spring fashion – spreading and throwing colors all around! Bright, neon shades have been prominent throughout designer’s wardrobes and will prevail throughout summer. The twist, however, is putting these shades in contrast together into one outfit, creating a retro yet modern look sure to grab all’s attention. Here are some tips on color combinations and ideas to jumpstart your creativity. Neutrals and pastels are still light and pretty, but mixing them together is key. And remember, all colors but black is the new black this season!
RED/ORANGE/PINK SHADES
Think watermelon or sorbet. A sari tie-dyed in red, pink and orange colors with a simple border will be sure to shine on its own without heavy sequin work. Or, in contrast, try a pink sari with red sequin work or orange embroidery. Makeup could be tried out similarly too. For example, red hot nails can be paired with hot pink lips for a combination on fire!
YELLOW/GREEN/BLUE SHADES
Imagine beach weather! A long, net Anarkali churidaar could make a huge splash in a mesh of yellow, green and blue tints. A yellow kameez with green inlays, blue churidaar and dupatta in a mix of the three colors is striking. Another idea is to wear a same-color-different-shade ensemble. How would that work? Try mixing a couple of blues together. A salwar kameez purely in turquoise and aqua blue can create a pretty ripple effect. Sea green and green can create a delicate feel too.
ALL TOGETHER
Now let’s paint! Red and yellow combinations are fiery, green and pink hues are delicate. Orange and blue is brave and bold. Mix and match to your delight, but remember to keep accessories to a neutral minimum. Too much is too much.
NEUTRALS TOGETHER
Spring means we can banish our deep maroons, dark navys and chocolate browns away. I personally cannot wait to wear my white, cream and beige goodies! Pastels can be so much fun too! The trick to keeping the look classic yet modern is to mix neutrals together. A cream choli blouse paired with a beige lengha is gorgeous. Adding pastel shades, such as pale pink, in the jewelry and bangles would be icing on the cake. Silver and gold metallics are still in, especially in daytime wear. A casual cotton patiala or salwar kameez would rock with gold foil work or silver sequin borders.
Try out different looks and trends always. I guarantee 100 percent that if you add your own character and your own flavor to your wardrobe, you will lead the top of the fashion crazes, and not just follow them! Being yourself and unique, and showcasing this for the world to see will make you most memorable! And as always, remember to ‘gro with style’!
Kiran Bahl of Gro Styles, “An Indian Boutique,” at 2035 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa, FL 33612 and 9456 S. Orange Blossom Trail, in Orlando, FL 32837, can be reached at (813) 843-9040, (813) 903-8334 or (407) ALL-SARI.