JUST look around and you would observe how some people worry and get tensed up (excitement apart) the moment a wedding is announced in the family or in their circle of friends. The situation gets further complicated (interesting for a few) when several functions are lined up for each wedding. You can enjoy being a part of the action with essentials like deep pockets, full of money of course, and all the time in the world to spare. You would also be closely watching the Page-3 celebs, if not imitating them and secretly nursing a desire to be one like them some day. That would be a miserable day whenever that happens.

What is the option? None; most of us would think so because that is the trodden path. Do not believe in the TINA (There is no alternative) proposition. On the contrary, try and do something different, I am sure you would find the solution within you and your wardrobe. As a starter, just forget that famous ‘ASITD’ syndrome known as "Already Seen In That Dress". The symptoms are similar to ‘apprehension’ and ‘nervousness’ and the result is lack of confidence. Even a wonderful dress is a mess if you cannot carry it well. When you are low on confidence, it shows in your timid expressions.

You can come out of this troubled state by evolving a well-thought-out strategy. Smartness lies in making the best of what you have rather than pushing yourself to the market to buy again and again. Rest assured, anything that is new today would be old tomorrow.

The name of the game is "style" and not "following fashion", so let’s learn how to play it well.

Know thyself, particularly appearance wise, because everything doesn’t suit everyone even if it is in fashion. So make the right choice for yourself.

A set of classic styles in your wardrobe always comes handy for a quick make over. For instance, a plain short kurta (straight cut, tone-on-tone pattern in jacquard) with side slits and V-neck with a ‘Chinese band’ coupled with straight pants and a matching stole sounds nice for a casual outing. The stole can be conveniently replaced with a bright bandhani dupatta or a plain shawl embellished with swarovski crystals to brighten the outfit for an evening out. The jewellery can be matched accordingly, may be kundan or polki.

It’s good to try different looks.

Features like straight vertical pin tucks, Chinese band and its variations, cowl necks in shirts or kurtas with churidaars or pants could be versatile additions. A black sleeveless kameez (georgette) with a cowl neck and churidaar; black chiffon for dupatta with a subtle shimmer of mukaish; and oxidised silver danglers could give you a ‘svelte’ look. The same kameez with detachable three-fourth sleeves combined with black pants or parallels would make it a western ensemble. Here again accessories like a brooch and hairstyle can totally change the look. These do not cost a fortune. A good collection is always helpful.

It’s a good idea to incorporate traditional Indian fabrics, especially wovens like ikats, patolas, jamawars, in outfits and accessories. Tie and dye designs like shibori, lehriyas and bandhani with bright interplay of colours has a worldwide appeal. One can build up the wardrobe coordinating other outfits with the existing traditional collection. An enviable all-over kantha embroidered wrap in an earthy brown shade can be coordinated with a beige salwar-kameez and minimal jewellery for a daytime get-together. Here the dupatta draped from the front along the shoulders becomes the focus.

The same wrap draped from the back with the two ends falling in front along the arms, when worn with a contrasting maroon (or deep rust, matched with the embroidery) shorter length kurta and a choker (neck band) and jhumkas can completely change the look. Your jewellery becomes the focal point here.

This concept can be used wearing a plain saree with a heavy pallav. Thanks to the saas-bahu serials, seedha pallav is back in its authentic style. A simple pendant with earrings and bangles looks graceful. On the contrary, let your ornaments glitter when you drape it the other way, and may be you could try a new hairstyle.

One of the main accessories i.e. footwear, should be well thought of and comfortable. Blacks and browns are must-haves. Never ignore footwear because it can enhance or mar your outfit.

The temptation to overdo should, of course, be avoided. This also applies to make-up, which is to improve your best features. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new looks. The nude natural look with a dark eye shadow, for instance.

Always wear a perfume you like.

Is all this too much an effort to do for an eventful evening? Don’t be scared, a little practise can make you perfect and nobody can do it better than you.

— MF