CHENNAI: She’s sexy and she knows it. Meet Sandhya Oza, wife, mum, image consultant and of late…a contestant in training for Mrs Universe 2014.The Bengaluru-based superwoman if you will, made a trip to Chennai recently for a show-and-tell of how to wear your jewellery right, using CaratLane’s new Spring Summer collection on display at The Amethyst Room. Here’s an easy tip to remember: ‘if you have a round face, don’t wear round earrings.’ Instead try a different shape or long earrings for that classy drop effect for contrast. But we slip past the earrings pretty quickly, and instead jump right into it
Tell us about preparing for Mrs Universe. How did your kids react?
My kids are really excited for me, they’re just upset that they won’t be able to attend the pageant in August. My husband and I don’t believe in letting them take time off from school for something like this. As for me, it’s been pretty crazy training and getting my costumes together. Prasad Bidapa is working with me on my walk
We heard that you recently did a pageant in March earlier this year, Mrs UK World
Yes, that was my first pageant ever. And it was great, because the liaison director came to me later and asked if I would represent England at Mrs Universe. Even though I am a British citizen it’s such a privilege, because it means that I’ve been handpicked over so many others who have been born and raised there! It just goes to show how important self confidence is in whatever your do
And that’s the biggest reason people come by the dozen for an image consultation…What are the FAQs?
I started DresSmart three years ago, and honestly I cover everything from the right outfit to skin care to how to cook a healthy Indian meal (with a separate venture, Curry Classes). I also teach how things as basic as how to drape a sari. It’s such a sexy garment, and I think if you get your maid to do it for you, it won’t be as sexy. All you need is two pins!
That’s quite a plateful. Do you have any plans for the pageant or is it too early to be asking?
Well, considering so many people ask me for tips on diet and cooking, I definitely want to become a certified nutritionist soon. Also, I’d love to walk the ramp at a couple of fashion weeks