Fashion
FUSING INDIAN STYLES AND AMERICAN WEAR
It’s April (yes, already)! A trend heavily being embraced here, there and everywhere is the use of Indian styles fused with American wear, especially this month with Coachella and other upcoming festivals. In fact, Indian fashion is the one being globalized the most! Anyone can make this look work for day or night. Let’s find out how.
SIMPLE FUSIONS
We have seen and most probably tried the long, flowy skirt and top look. Beautiful solid and printed cotton or chiffon skirts, even lengha/chaniya skirts paired with a camisole, tank top or short sleeved top look super cute together. Just keep in mind not to wear long sleeves with the long skirt. The outfit may look stifling. Instead of simple flip flops or flats, though, opt for multi-colored sandals with embellishments such as pom poms or tassels, to give the look some flair.
The most common fusion you see around? Wearing your kurtis/tunic tops with leggings. Yes, it is a comfortable option, but with a couple of twists, it could also become a trendy one. Wear your kurti with skinny jeans. Feeling bolder? Try with flared, almost bell bottom jeans. The seventies are in! Leggings here are revered, and the most sought after pair involves cutouts, mesh panels or graphic prints. Wear with a fitted kurti and stand out among the rest.
Wearing a T-shirt and jeans? Add some Indian bangles, or a silver tribal necklace to upstage your ensemble and fashion vibes.
BOLD FUSIONS
A spring favorite here this season is to pair an open shirtdress with shorts or jeans. Do this with your button-down kurtis or simple kameez tops.
When in a rush, the easiest thing to top with your jeans and tank top/T-shirt is a vest. The more ornate with mirrors, tassels and sequins, the better! Short or long ones work fabulously. Just leave it open when wearing to look more chic, more casual. Wear heels and simpler jewelry for the perfect blend of east meets west.
NIGHTWEAR FUSIONS
Going out for an event and unsure how to look unique but put together, too? This is where Indian fusion looks become fun to try!
Cocktail dresses with huge Indian jhumke/earrings look couture. Saris with lacey or sequined crop tops give all a runway feel. A fancy kurti with silk trousers are elegant. Even using your super long Anarkali gown as a, well, gown can work! Just be sure to balance with minimal jewelry and not too over-the-top makeup.
Have fun mixing and matching your Indian and American looks. It’s an honor to be a part of two cultures, two worlds. Keep styling, keep happy 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
