This story is from February 3, 2015

Regal elegance

This festive season, work towards customising an avatar that spells `aristocratic,' sans the bloated price tag
Regal elegance
This festive season, work towards customising an avatar that spells `aristocratic,' sans the bloated price tag
1. Stylish & Suave
For a blockbuster festive combination that is ideal for a fun Bollywood theme party, opt for a bold and vibrant rani or magenta kurta in silk, with a contrasting black bandi that has a dash of gold filigree. Just remember, though Jodhpurs are very smart and stylish, they do not suit all body types and personalities.
Choose wisely.
2. Mughal Opera
An embroidered kurta over a flared kurta and churidar is a classic example of sophisticated dressing with regal panache. The new layered silhouette line successfully adds an element of surprise. The same tonal colour makes this skirt-like style workable with a by gone glamour and vintage charm. Accessories like bejewelled Swarovski buttons and a pearl and gold brooch on the chest complete the look by imparting a dignified and debonair persona.

3. Layered opulence
A beautifully textured and embroidered ivory jacket worn over a red kurta churidar set works best for a traditional wedding ceremony. It's versatile in a way that you can also do away with the jacket and get a completely fresh festive look for the post-wedding ceremonies. Vermillion red and beige is an evergreen, classy combination and never looks overpowering or loud.
4. Desi cool
A short navy blue or black Nehru jacket teamed with a simple off-white kurta and a neutral draped dhoti is a youthful and wearable interpretation of traditional styles. Add a sporty, desi vibe to this ensemble with horizontal surface details on the jacket and vertical butti placements on the sleeves. It is the perfect choice for a puja as well as a wedding.
5. Colour code
The all-gold tone on tone look in heavy brocade works well for a classy Indian groom as well as the groom's brother. This combination complements every complexion, whether you're fair or wheatish and thus, is the safest style for Indian ceremonies. To add a pop of colour to a simple ensemble, use colours like classic turmeric yellow, hibiscus red and deep black for details like buttons and buttis. Ditch the traditional Punjabi-style bandhani turban and opt for a pagri in turmeric yellow for the much-needed festive glamour.
6. Black attack
Nothing beats the glamour and impact of an all-black ensemble with gold strewn over the arms, collar and chest pocket. The right amount of textural embroidery makes this look a winner for every man, regardless of height, weight and skin tone. Black polo pants adds to the sleekness of the outfit.
How to get it right
Never compromise on the fit and finish: What embroidery is to bridal trousseau, fit and finish is to a man's desi wardrobe. Don't pick a run-of-themill sherwani and off-the-rack designer accessories. Put effort in customising your look. Understand your shape and physique before deciding on your cut.
Hunt for the unusual: Look beyond the typical sherwani, kurta pajama and Jodhpur set. Achkan, angrakha and choga (long-sleeved robe that is worn loosely around the bodice) are versatile vintage silhouettes, which are being interestingly modified by many designers. Identify which one brings out your personality.
Pick accessories wisely: Invest time and effort in looking for cuff links, tie pins, socks and a pocket square for the three-piece formal set. Opt for a stunning yet comfortable pair of shoes which would support you through the evening.For your Indian attire, focus on the turban variations, brooches, men's jewels and layering to create an impressive regal avatar. Mojris and jootis can be custom-made to coordinate your garment.
No flashy stuff please: Avoid material that is reflective or has a shiny surface.Go for textiles and fabrics that are camera-friendly and help make a great picture.
Be season smart: You must dress according to the season, not settings (indoor and outdoor). Bright warm colours and deep blues look best in outdoor day settings and deeper red and burnt orange look stunning for night functions.
(Inputs by designers Aniket Satam and Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor)
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