Festive season is nearly upon us, and with it comes the weddings, the parties, and gatherings, and dinners… We aren’t fans of procuring brand new wardrobes each season, which is why we asked Aparna Chandra, our head of clothing design and general style whiz, for ways to make getting dressed in the peak festivity patch a little less arduous, and a lot more fun. Aparna’s own style is a little bit bohemian, there are usually flowers involved, and we’ll gladly take cues from her on nailing celebration-chic any day of the week.
We’re all out so much over this period that sometimes it’s fun to make your outfit a little bit more playful.
LET ACCESSORIES DO THE TALKING
My personal preference is keeping the overall colour more solid and then adding pattern or pops of colour with accessories, so maybe with shoes, a thick lacquer bangle or an armful of bangles… I love glass bangles in vibrant colours, they’re so lovely, and for this collection (Aparna Chandra x Nicobar, launching September 15!) we’ve actually got some fantastic bangles that would be great to add a little festive pop. I recommend pairing the solid blue sari with a vibrant red pump or bangle, or maybe even the ochre bangle. Basically treat your outfit like a blank canvas that can be easily embellished with a statement necklace, dramatic shoe or a gorgeous beaded bag.
SPEAKING OF ACCESSORIES, FOCUS ON YOUR HAIR
Flowers on hair is a must-do for me, but I also like braids or using some sort of subtle embellishment in my hair, little flowers, a shimmering hairpin or clip. It’s really beautiful and feminine and quite festive.
HIGHLIGHT ONE THING
This is a classic tip for a reason. Focus on either your eyes or lips and it’s so much chicer than going heavy all over (but if that’s what you like, of course, do what feels good!).
ADD A LITTLE SPARKLE OR PATTERN
It is the festive season after all! I like solid colours mixed with a small amount of pattern, like adding a little floral print or stripe (a favourite), or just a little sparkle, like wearing a subtly sequined blouse with a chanderi sari. If you’re more maximalist or like to play, layer pattern on pattern. Try a bigger floral print layered with a smaller floral, and wear them both on top of a striped bottom.
MIX IN WARDROBE STAPLES
In the new line, we’ve done a gorgeous pair of high-waisted jeans with a sequin stripe that takes the everyday into more glamorous territory. We’re all out so much over this period that sometimes it’s fun to make your outfit a little bit more playful. Mixing denim with silk is lovely and I like this one paired with a bustier and silk overlay and you’ve got a look that’ll go easily from wedding to after party.
COMFORT IS KEY
You’ve got to be comfortable to have a truly good time. I can’t think of anything worse than having achy feet all night so I always, always wear flats. Plus, it’s lovely to have your hands free – get a bag you can sling over your shoulders that will fit your phone and essentials without weighing you down on the dance floor.
