The art of being sexy

To exude oomph, you don't have to go short and clingy. Vidya Prabhu has got some tips to have you looking hot for the partying season without giving up on your air of mystery

Bulbul Hooda, 25, marketing professional
Best asset: Your legs

Style tips
- Wear dresses with design details that draw the eye down, such as border prints or a side or off-centre slit.
- This look works if you have lean legs. Avoid if you have thick calves.
- A nice pair of stilettos can add length to your legs.
- For an evening out, dab some makeup on your legs.

“I never thought such short numbers could work on me. I’m pleasantly surprised.”

Dress, Narendra Kumar for Creo, Rs 12,800; Cuff, Aldo Accessories, Rs 600; Over-sized clutch, The Oak Tree, Rs 8,800; Shoes, Trésmode, Rs 6,990

Manisha Dhingra, 26, writer
Best asset: Your back

Style tips
- You can wear a dress with a deep-scooped back neckline or one with a cowl neckline.
- Emphasise the back with dresses that have some form of embellishment-appliqué or embroidery-on the back.
- Wear your hair in an up-do, instead of leaving it open.
- Make sure your back is worth showing off by using moisturiser, and hide any tan lines with foundation.
- Wear the right bra-there are bras specially designed for backless dresses and some dresses have built-in support.

“I’ve realised that a dress with a well-cut back can work wonders for me. In fact, I think this dress makes me look hot and graceful at the same time.”

Dress, Ritu & Rochana at Fuel, Rs 9,000; Clutch, 500 BC, Rs 4,900; Bow ring, Aldo Accessories, Rs 600; Peep-toes, Trésmode, Rs 3,990

Eka Lakhani, 23, fashion stylist
Best asset: Your décolletage

Style tips
- Contrary to what you may think, this look works best if you have a modestly-proportioned chest.
- Wear an interesting neckpiece to draw attention to your cleavage.
- Embellishments or prints at the neckline will also have the same effect.
- Wear a deep V-neck if you are short, and a scooped, wide one if you are tall.
- Dab some bronzer on your cleavage for a tantalising shine.

“I always felt that an outfit with a low-neck would make me look vulgar. Not any more. I can now dare to wear such outfits and carry them off with élan!”

Dress, Geisha Designs at Fuel, Rs 10,200; Butterfly pendant necklace, Bansri Joallerie, Rs 5,600; Ring, Bansri Joallerie, Rs 2,850; Bracelet, stylist’s own; Hair band, Aza, Rs 2,800; Minaudiere, Mango, Rs 2,550; Sandals, Nine West, Rs 3,890

Photographs by Ryan Martis; hair and Makeup by Recinda Martis; Styling by Zeenat Hatim