DO’S AND DON’TS
Greetings! With the coming of the holiday season, we’re looking forward to Navratri and Diwali with lots of anticipation. In this article, let’s focus on the Do’s and Don’ts of “it’ fashion, so we’re prepared to start the holiday season off with elegance, style and trend!
DO wear similar colors together.
A while back, it was unheard of to wear pink and red together, or combine green and yellow in one outfit. Now, things have changed. The “now” colors of fashion combinations are lilac and navy blue, and flaming red and orange shades. Of course, these odd combinations require dimmer jewelry tones, such as a simple silver or gold jewelry set and bangles, to keep your look fresh and updated. Mixing neutrals too is a bright effect. Try a beige sari with white blouse or navy blue churidaar with brown working. Just remember, too much color will end up making you look clowny, not classy.
DO wear different metals in one outfit.
Silver and gold together? Yes. Fashion runways internationally are displaying beautiful lenghas and saris with a combination of gold sets and silver bangles, or gold jhumkas with a silver/diamond necklace. Even fancier outfits, such as crepe sequin-encrusted lenghas or chiffon embroidered saris are being adorned with gold and silver threading for a more dramatic effect.
DO try getting different manicure and pedicure colors, ladies.
Whether you get your nails done or do them yourself, try the contemporary fashion way and purposely mismatch your finger and toe polish colors. Stick with neutral combos such as pink fingernails and beige toenails, or for a more fun and bold mood, maroon fingernails with hot pink toenails. The play of colors will make even the simplest outfit pop, especially for our vivid holidays!
DON’T ever, ever, ever, wear flats with a sari.
True fashion, unfortunately at times, does not care if you have the worst back trouble, or if you “just don’t like heels”. If you choose to wear a sari, it is solely your decision! And if you make this decision, complete the look correctly. When wearing any sari, fancy or casual, for weddings or a pooja, a little lift is a must. Stilettos or wedges, the higher they are, the better, but even just an inch or so will make a difference in your look! Match them to your jewelry and bangles to create a clean, sleek look. Shine even more with copper or bronzed jewel tones for your accessories, compared to the evergreen gold and silver looks.
DON’T combine jeans and a kurta pajama top, gentlemen.
The gangster-from-the-village look should strictly remain in the village! Gentleman, keep your look sophisticated and rich by pairing those sexy blue jeans with a kurti. Kurtis are a bit shorter than Kurtas, with a more fitted, edgier look. The linen and cotton blends keep you feeling fresh and lighter colors will help you feel cool in our hotter-than-ever Florida weather.
Send us your fashion questions and concerns. Follow the trend! E-mail us at [email protected], and we’ll answer any and all your fashion dilemmas! Here’s this month’s Fashion Drama Question of the month:
Q: I want to know if men really require a dupatta on a sherwani. Is it complusory or not? And how to wear it? – Sunita, Clearwater
A: Hi Sunita! For men, the dupatta on a sherwani (if necessary, more for bridegroom/fancier occasions), should be hung around the neck, with the ends at the front of the outfit. Make sure the ends are even! One end can also be draped longer, with the longer part thrown over the opposite shoulder.
Keep these tips in mind, and always add your personal touch to create the perfect look for you. And for now, happy holidays. Stay safe and celebrate each day wholly and completely, with your most cherished family and 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.