Festive pastels
Soft and muted pastels are in vogue as the top festive sartorial choice.
Ahoy, ladies! The spirited festive season is here, giving us all the more reason to take out that glittery and flirty dupatta, embellished ‘look-at-me’ lehenga or shop for the ‘I-gotta-have-it’ blouse. Swipe up and down your Instagram feed and you’ll notice that the chapter one of the festive sartorial story is all about colours — muted, dull, soft pastel tones. “Yes, colours like old rose, ash green, dust blue, pale yellows and ivory are trending for the upcoming festive season,” nod Ruchi Roongta and Rashi Agarwal of Label Ruceru. “These colours complement modern silhouettes and play along with the idea of intertwining glitter with the non-flashy and dull. So, if you have loud embroidery and a duller surface, it helps in bringing out the best of that ensemble.”
Designer Aditi Somani agrees. “Earthy shades and pastel tones are not restricted to safe wall colours anymore as they have surpassed the fashion norms in the most revitalising way this season. However, if one is not into dull tones, then one can also go for pop colours. Just ditch the traditional reds and maroons. Pick up hues like bright oranges, fuchsias and other eye-gripping pastel tones. The best thing about these hues is that they are versatile and can be incorporated in any kind of outfit, by anyone with any skin tone. I’d suggest that the best time to wear them would be during the day, as they beautifully reflect the sun’s rays.”
Aditi adds, “Mix more than two pastels in one look and add a contrasting element like a bright accessory for a party-ready look. Colour blocking of pastels will help you make a unique and classy statement. Also, think of all the lovely lady-like detailings — tie-up bows, frills, lace and tulle in ultra feminine pastels.”
Sharing the top five looks for the season, Ruchi and Rashi say, “A silk woven traditional sari with statement blouse will never go out of fashion. So it’s a must. An easy cotton suit paired with interesting, embellished dupatta or a long line printed dress with heavy handwork appliqué would be an ideal option for all the day activities. Delicate and flowy kalidar anarkali with a sharara or a skirt is a perfect option for festive dinners and parties. Contemporary silhouettes like dhoti skirts or asymmetrical silk jackets with traditional embroidery can make you stand out from the crowd. But if you are inclined to don a semi-western look, then choose a Indo-western jacket with colourful detailing to add the instant layered effect on any Indian garment.”
Designer Gautam Gupta shares more options, “Fusion gowns are an ideal choice for evening functions. Also, short kurtas with ghararas are wonderful. Straight suits are also very much in.”