JANUARY 2011
Khaas Baat : A Publication for Indian Americans in Florida
Fashion

TIPS FOR THE NEW YEAR

Kiran Bahl

By KIRAN BAHL

Happy New Year! We’re relieved that the stress of the holidays is over, and we’re even more excited to start a fresh, New Year, that too, with sincere resolutions. A must-have New Year’s resolution on your list should be to always remain in tip-top fashion form, no matter the situation. Through good times and bad, an attractive appearance always boosts confidence, and we’re here to help you through it all.

We Floridians are extremely lucky this winter season. Temperatures have remained stable and warm, which gives us a huge spectrum of variety of clothing to wear. Ladies, this season is all about dressing up! Lenghas are on the top of every party list. Crepe and georgette versions are cropping up, with the latest trend decorating the top of the skirt with a decorative waistband, perfectly coordinating with the top. Strappy tops are still the rage. Pearl beading is back. This English-Victorian look has been taken from American fashion runways, and fused with Indian looks to create an ultra-modern style. Lattice, pearl beading on a strappy top, in two-tone shades, matched with an A-line lengha creates the perfect silhouette for any occasion. Even saris have followed the trend. Pearl and silver sequined ornaments atop an ice-pink or baby blue sari are too elegant for words. Pastels, especially creams, are the “in” colors, with traditional reds and oranges close behind. Leave those navy blues and blacks for later this year.

Suits have changed a bit as well. Net-sleeved styles are still in, but with a twist – the sleeves are the more decorated parts of the outfit. Sleeve cuffs and seams are bursting with décor, including sequin work, embroidery and zari. The eye is instantly drawn upward, which helps if you’re heavier on the bottom. And we ladies know that longer sleeves are always flattering.

Jewelry is too much fun this season. Jewels are super large and super colorful. Two and even three-tone sets are in demand, made even fancier with hanging beads. Bangles are being made to custom match. Even bindis are being double- shaded and beaded for a perfect fit to your jewels and outfit! You should still focus on loose hairstyles, opting for as little hair ornaments as necessary. The more natural the look, the more natural you’ll appear, as if pulling your outfit together was a breeze. Again, confidence is the key – it’s the icing on any style.

Men, your look is toned down a bit this season. Simpler Jodhpuris and kurta pajamas, in georgette or silk, are most requested. Keep in line with the ladies, however, and opt for pastels or neutral colors. A baby blue cotton kurta pajama or beige silk Jodhpuri can be the foundation for any look you want to achieve. Add a neutral-colored dupatta to fancy things up. For the bold, a fitted kurta top with a dhoti is the No. 1 runway trend now. Try a cream ready-made dhoti (it helps lots when they’re ready-made!) with a beige kurta – great look for any function!

Send us your fashion questions and concerns. Follow the trend! E-mail us at kiran@grostyles.com and we’ll answer any and all your fashion dilemmas! Here’s this month’s Fashion Drama question of the month:

Q: How long of a jhumka (earring) is too long? I’ve noticed the styles are big and showy lately, but is too big too bad? – Hina, Tampa

A: Hi Hina. You’re right, super long, super blingy earrings are the rage now. To answer your question, long can be too long. The rule of thumb, usually, is when wearing the earring, make sure it does not touch, or even skim, your shoulder. Bolder runways have displayed earrings down to the shoulder and beyond, but for real life versus reel life, stick to that suggestion and you’ll be just fine.
Happy New Year to one and all. Keep your fashion resolutions up-to-date always. We wish you a fabulous 2011 filled with zest for life, the love of family, and the laughter of friends. And as always, remember to gro with style!

Kiran Bahl of Gro Styles, "An Indian Boutique," 2035 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33612, can be reached at (813) 843-9040 or (813) 903-8334.

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