When dressing up for traditional Indian festivals, it’s quite easy to go over the top with colours, fabric, jewellery, et al. But times have changed and simplicity rules the day. Don’t believe us? Let your favourite celebrities set an example. We trolled Instagram to figure out the kind of festive wear Bollywood’s favourite women are sporting these days, and here are our favourites.
Karishma Tanna
TV actress Karishma Tanna has really evolved as a fashionista over time. Remember that stunning grey ensemble she wore at a jewellery store launch at the Capital? Well, recently we spotted a picture of hers sporting a beautiful grey and pink lehenga choli by designer Payal Singh. What worked was that the colours and embroidery on the outfit weren’t over-the-top festive. While the pink choli had bold, golden floral embroidery, the skirt in grey was simple yet artistic. The heavy dhupatta – matching the choli – was kept to one side, adding a flourish, but not too much. She chose polka jewellery from Shilpa Puri and SSoul to match with the ensemble. Statement rings and a single kangan kept the look clean yet dressy.
Malika Arora Khan
There is no denying that Malaika Arora Khan can always pull off the svelte look to perfection, so when she was spotted at the Sionnah store launch in Mumbai wearing an ensemble from the design house’s pret couture line, we couldn’t help but nod our heads in approval. What this look presents is a slightly modern take – with the off-shoulder choli (a very a la Manish Malhotra from this time’s Lakme Fashion Week, no?) – and the waist-down emroidery on the skirt. Black has long been accepted in traditional festivities, so you can always add that oomph factor. Keeping it statement-simple, the chunky earrings are the only piece needed to highlight the look, and Arora Khan one played her high cheekbones keeping her hair tucked away in a high ponytail.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
A simple white piece when worn right can beat even the most stunning of dresses. And when it’s Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wearing a beautiful Rohit Bal long-kurta and skirt. The self-embroidered kurta with the flowing skirt looks elegant and fit for any formal gathering. Much like black, white as a colour has also been long-accepted in festive gatherings in India, giving a dash of sophistication that other colours rarely provide.
Shilpa Shetty Kundra
Again, it’s nigh impossible for the Cura Ke Dil Mera girl to go wrong with her sartotial choices, and this colourful top and skirt ensemble by designer Anupama Dayal is yet another proof. Styled by Sanjana Batra, Shetty Kundra plays it big with colour and funk with this piece, which is modern and fun, while fitting in perfectly with the festive vibe. A playful pair of earrings also add the glam factor.