Go for a fusion look this Diwali

As diyas of Diwali light up myriad lives, TOI tells you the secret mantras to sport that perfect trendy yet traditional look this Diwali…
What’s ‘in’ this season?
While Diwali is more about crackers and sweets, the dressing up part too is an important aspect of this festival. Fashion designer Shruti Sancheti says, “The young girls want to wear what actresses like Sonam or Vidya Balan are wearing, so many of them are going in for the Indianised version of crop tops.Anarkalis have been on the fashion horizon for quite sometime now, and fashionistas are looking for constant variations. Circular and floor length anarkalis are the latest fad. Traditional shararas are being replaced with palazzos, which are extremely comfortable to wear. The churidar-kameez combo is still haute; one can pair it with elegant chand-balis, which are making waves these days. Indian textiles and embroideries are getting recognition worldwide; foreigners look for contemporary clothes with an Indian soul. And Indian women are also paying obeisance to this amalgamation of contemporary and traditional.”
Secret of smart buying
According to Shruti, it's time to look beyond mere ostentatiousness. She adds, “You must invest in attires, which can be worn later too.” In this month of October, which is rather hot for us Nagpurians, the thought of unembellished yet sophisticated clothes brings relief to the mind. But then, how can Nagpurians make a fashion statement out of this? Shruti says, “Just add a bright stole to a western outfit, and you will get a formal look. You can also make a nice long skirt, using some exotic fabric lying at home." Flaunt those perfect curves “The city women are working out religiously to stay in shape, and they want to flaunt those perfect curves on Diwali. So, even if they wear saris, there is some element of modernity to it; the simple blouses are being replaced by the short cholis with boat neck or Chinese collars to show-off those perfectly toned bodies,” says Shruti.
Colours for the season Floral prints are in and liquid gold is the colour of the season. It enhances the skin tone of Indian women beautifully. Watermelon red, burnt orange, emerald gold are also haute this season, says the designer.
Minimal is the magic mantra When it comes to accessories, women love to flaunt their entire treasure to the world, especially during the festivals. Shruti cautions, “The trick is not to look like a Christmas tree. Wear just one ornate piece of jewellery as it looks striking. The traditional jewellery is in vogue and people are wearing the antique pieces in contemporary manner. Here again, your make-up should compliment your attire. If your dress is too heavy, it is ideal to keep the make-up basic - with glossy lips, eyes done up and simple hairstyle.” There’s a piece of advice for city men too. “Men should not step out looking like bridegrooms. A kurta with jeans, or waistcoat with jeans will do wonders for their style quotient,” says the designer.