Indian weaves, designs and accessories are making a comeback when it comes to street and casual wear. You just have to add one desi thing to your ensemble to make it look uber cool. While Ikat prints and brocade silks can instantly add that touch of oomph to any drab western outfit, one can be subtle about it and just accessorise wisely.
Indian pants
Indian pants - patialas or jodphuris - are a great way to incorporate an ethnic touch to your look. Wear them with a tunic, an over-sized shirt or a tank with blazer combination. Add high heels like nude pumps or gladiators to complete the look. Or you could go all desi with mojris.
Ikat jackets
Look stylish and chic with the Ikat jacket this fall. Pair the blazer with long tunics and slim fitted pants. Add royal pumps to give the look a classic feel.
Dupattas
Dupattas add colour to a dull outfit. You can experiment with multi-coloured flower embroidery in silk threads, on cottons and silk dupattas (also known as Phulkari), which are all the rage this season. Pair a traditional dupatta with a plain tank top and jeans to get that quintessential, hobo look.
Accessorising is a good way to pump life into your outfit and give the subtle desi touch to the plain tunic-pants combination.
The bindi
One of the hottest trends is to add a bindi to your western outfit. Just wear a neon bindi with a plain shirt, denims and sky high heels and you’re good to go.
Nose rings
They go with everything - but size matters. A small nose stud can brighten up your face and will go with almost any outfit. Tiny bindis can also double as nose studs. Try one with a tunic top over skinny jeans in dark denim for a sultry Friday night out look.
Cuffs
Chunky bangles are in, which is great news for the desi girl. Cuff bracelets can look fabulous with any sleek work outfit - try them with dark black trousers with heels and a crisp white shirt - or with a long, flowy dress.
Anklets
Stick to common silver anklets in daintier styles when pairing them with skirts or dresses - they add a whimsical touch. Try them with dresses with billowy bottoms or long, gauzy skirts for a boho chic look.
Printed bags
Whether it’s a Bollywood print clutch or intricate Indian artwork, a statement bag is sure to grab many eyeballs. Pair it with a plain white kurta and palazzo pants or go all out and pair it with a bohemian maxi and a lot of jewellery.
