Capturing the global look
By Pinky Adil

WITH the growth of the fashion industry, personal styling has become a major casualty. Designers everywhere are turning global in their outlook and the so-called "international look" which caters to a cross-section of women, is increasingly gaining relevance.

So how do you decide on something that suits you?

The easiest way out, as any designer would point out, is to mix‘n’ match. You can come up with countless permutations and combinations from a limited set of options, given a bit of imagination and, of course, loads of attitude.

There are other ways as well to make the most of what you have and most importantly, look dashing. For instance, everybody wears a saree; but quite often, the way it is worn can make a world of a difference to the appearance of a wearer.

It can be worn low on the hips to resemble the silhouette of draped gown. Many hitch it above the ankles to give a sporty or casual look. The same saree, when worn high on the waist, can look very dressy.

Also, it is ethnic wear that is witnessing a revival of sorts. Bejewelled lehnga-cholis in vibrant colours have especially flooded the market, in keeping with the spirit of festivities around. And the best part is that quite a few styles are out-of-the-ordinary.

For ceremonial occasions, lehngas are etched with gold lace and renaissance motifs. The blouse is in Italian jacquard embellished with pearls and nalquis that replaces silk and brocade.

Clearly, tradition is being given a definite twist in these emerging styles. If Shaina NC uses dull gold net for its rich feel, Shobha Somani is trying out velvets and nets in navy, wine and jade green for her lehnga-cholis.