LOOK PRETTY, PRIMPED, POLISHED FOR VALENTINE’S DAY!
When ladies think of February, there is one major thought on our minds – Valentine’s Day! This day, celebrating love has become so global, even reaching India. So while traditionally, the men are planning romantic surprises, ladies are planning their outfits. Let’s read on to ensure you look pretty, primped and polished!
Monochromatic or Single-Colored Looks
Dressing monochromatic involves wearing the same color pretty much head to toe. It’s on-trend too, so try it out. Say your color of choice to wear is red. You would wear a red sari, paired with red heels, a red clutch and maybe gold or silver jewelry with red accents. The look is simple and clean. As a bonus, you will look practically a dress size smaller, since the viewer’s eye will easily shift from top to bottom with no color distractions. So, go ahead and eat that extra bit of dessert!
But be warned: a common mistake to avoid (especially on Valentine’s Day) is to choose a neutral color to wear allover, such as black, brown or gray. We may think of darker shades as flattering, which may be true, but you may look a little too corporate and somber. It’ll make for a dull look – not a mood for romance!
Two-Tone or Multi-Color Ensembles
For some of us, wearing red, blue, even simple white from head to toe can be too bold. To level out a one shade outfit, balance with another! An Anarkali red with purple, blue with beige, or white with pink will have you looking just radiant! Dress to turn heads even more by wearing three or more colors together! A rainbow palette will warm and brighten up the winter temperatures and any party room alike!
When experimenting with multi-shades, however, keep jewelry and shoes minimal. Neutralizing accessories will keep your outfit shining without the over-busyness of any accessories.
Eastern or Western?
Dressing in desi or American outfits, even on Valentine’s Day, is purely based on preference. Going to a fun desi party? Wear that saved-for-a-special-occasion lengha! Go all out with a vintage looking jewelry set and crystal heels!
If going out to an Italian or Spanish restaurant for dinner or lounging for drinks and dance, wear the American ensemble, but stand out with a touch of Indian! A cut-out dress can be embellished with large gold or pearl earrings. A sexy blouse and skirt combo can be bedazzled with bangles or cuffs (kadas). Mix it up!
Sweet Valentine’s Day wishes to all. Love your partner, wholly and unconditionally. Also remind yourself that your close family and friends fall into this category. Treat all whom you truly cherish with patience, kindness, generosity and above all, love. 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