Style your Holi

Wanna go beyond the predictable Ice Maiden look or 'care-two-hoots-and-wear-something-worn-out' dictum this Holi? P S Bhavana suggests five OMG-inducing fashion theories that could change your mad, colour-filled festival's party dynamics

Theory 1: Make black your new white.
Reasons: An all-black ensemble can counter any unsightly see-through concerns. And besides looking sexy, slimming and modish, it can also work as a mysterious palette to flaunt the mish-mash of colours.
Tips: Wear something sleeveless and snug (say a mid-length kurta, short tunic or a shirt-dress). If it’s loose, cinch it at the wait if you must.
Offset with: A cool pair of colourful flip-flops and a bunch of solid-coloured beads or bangles. Or a silver belt with charms or trinkets.

Theory 2: Get going with light denims
Reasons: This timeless fabric is ‘brawny’ and worth being abused. Well, after the festival is over, you can always re-use this coloured silhouette-jeans, capris or knee-lengths-as a great style statement. Wear it with a white shirt. Alternatively, get denims dyed professionally (a tie-dye effect rocks!)
Tip: Use light-coloured denims. If your legs permit, nothing can look saucier than a pair of über-trendy, ripped shorts.
Offset with: A white or black ganji (vest) or a tent-like top; and a pair of flip-flops/colourful Osho slippers.

Theory 3: Go shapeless and layer up
Reasons: Nothing conceals better than this look. But it can look ultra-mod especially when both the trends-layered and amorphous-are blended in well. After all, the fads have stayed on longer than expected, haven’t they?
Tips: Try either the Indian layer-up-formless kurta with a vest (fold the sleeves up); or the shapeless halter-neck dress or sack-shirt-with-vest style. Psst: A wee bit of prudent skin show helps!
Offset with: Strappy slip-ons, Osho slippers or thongs. A pair of hip shoulder-dusters (longish ear pieces), or a stole or a scarf (if outdoors) can add interest.

Theory 4: Slip into a kimono or kaftan
Reasons: It’s very comfy-cool, very lounge and very street at the same time. If you can, let its neckline plunge or go off-kilter (modestly) to work your charm up.
Tips: How about donning a knee-length style? Remember here you can safely either go short or long depending on your body type.
Offset with: A wrist cuff (dark leather wouldn’t get couloured easily) and simple slip-ons. Or a string of black pearls or cluster of chains. An obi-style belt (it can work wonders).

Theory 5: Tee off in a sweeping white tee
Reasons: It’s a great number that’s safe, versatile and can look smashing hot. Wear it over a pair of black capris, plain denims, or snug or billowy track pants.
Tips: A solid white tee looks better than a printed one. Apart from a usual shape or a high-cut vest, you can go for a radical knitted form-with bat-wing or kimono sleeves, tunic-style, with cowls or even surface decoration like appliqué or crochet. Don’t forget to wear an inner or sports bra under this one!
Offset with: An embroidered belt. A random mix of hued beads or an armful of wooden bangles. Coloured or metallic Kolhapuri slip-ons.