Next to the wedding season, the holidays are the only time of the year when we get dressed to impress at lavish office parties, Christmas get-togethers and come January, lohri parties. While there is no formula for looking fabulous, and I am a believer that nothing looks sexier or more elegant than being comfortable and confident with what you’re wearing, there are some general fashion tips to keep in mind this season.
Don’t compete with the Christmas tree. Being dressed up and glamorous doesn’t mean you need to be lit up like a Christmas tree. Simplicity and elegance goes a long way.
Stick to solids. Solid gem colors are elegant in the winter season. You can never go wrong with dark greens, reds, dark blues, a raspberry color or even white. Winter white is beautiful and stands out in a sea of color traditional to Indian wear.
Don’t compete with yourself. Wearing a dazzling items like a piece of statement jewellery or a gorgeous anarkhali suit can be gorgeous, but be weary to not let the clothes and jewels compete. Understated makes more of a statement. Wear the outfit, don’t let the outfit wear you. Pair a simple light pink suit with a diamond necklace set in yellow gold and pair it with a matching elegant diamond cuff.
Take pride in your clothing. The holidays are a time to decorate your home with eclectic pieces collected from vintage shops to flea markets. Don’t let your outfit show like a flea market piece, but invest for the future in something that can be worn with pride just like Chanel, Jimmy Choo and western labels. Take pride in Indian clothing and accessories, and be confident when you wear them.
Take note. A simple Google search will show you what Indian celebrities are wearing. While Bollywood films highlight the glitz and glam of Indian wear, most Indian film stars wear timeless and classic pieces showcasing the roots of the beauty Indian culture has to offer.
Not all that glitters is gold. Traditional embroidery techniques like gotta puthi and kundan work are timeless and cross-generational. When you’re investing in Indian fashion, stick to a solid color with traditional embroidery techniques. This will allow you more wear out of the piece as the months pass.
Pamela Gill,
owner and head designer of
Pipili Boutique.