When it comes to Indian wear – casual, party or formal – we’ve been conditioned to go full power on colour. Going with soft pastels or bright, popping colours is what I now call ‘playing it safe’. These colour combinations are so common (by common I mean, you and the neighbourhood aunty stepping out in the same pastel pink and peach outfit) and TBH, a bit dull despite all the colour. It’s not just bright or pastel shades, it’s combinations like black and red or white with yellow, which I think, need to take a backseat for a while. Don’t get me wrong, they’re classic, but it’s just the beginning of February, and there’s still 11 months worth of desi looks to get through. So, what can you do to infuse some life back into your desi style file? Unique but utterly made-for-each-other shade pairings… Armed with a Pantone chart, I have 6 celeb-friendly colour matches that’ll do the job:
1. Faded feat. Pink & Green
I’m legit in love with this combination as is Sonam Kapoor, with this dark onion pink top and teal green saree. Rustic but inspired, isn’t it? Whatever the fabric, it’s the shades that matter, so experiment with different kinds of material – silk, crepe, chiffon… Each of which will lend a unique touch to your look.
POPxo recommends: Zari Buti Cutwork Blouse Fabric (Rs. 319) by Indie Picks and Banarasi Silk Saree with Zari Border (Rs. 3,999) by Rudrakaashe-MSU
2. Balance feat. Yellow & Grey
Not my absolute favourites as separates, this colour match surprised me as much as it did you. Yes, yellow and grey is a thing. No, scratch that it’s a GREAT thing. Exhibit A, Esha Gupta’s stunning kurti-garara ensemble, balanced perfectly between ‘pop’ and ‘elegance’. Give this shade pairing a shot the next time you step out for a festive desi night, and your look will deliver like a star.
POPxo recommends: Yellow Grey Foil Printed Cotton Chanderi Anarkali Suit – Set of 3 (Rs. 6,950) by The Loom
3. Classic feat. Black and White
Yes, I’m serious. When it comes to Indian wear, I’ve seldom seen or done monochrome. Think about it. I mean, I wear the classic black and white combination like everyday. But it’s all western – I know desi style is essentially festive, but it is graceful and sophisticated too. And that’s where Shilpa Shetty’s look comes in. This belted black and white saree is EVERYTHING and beyond. Adding one to my cart right now. BRB.
POPxo recommends: White Printed Pre Draped High Leg Saree (Rs. 18,325) by 431-88 by Shweta Kapur and Black V Neck Blouse With Contrast Silver Piping (Rs. 8,160) by Raw Mango
4. Street Style feat. Black & Brown
Probably the least preferred colour combination for western wear, the black and brown pairing is underrated. Especially when it comes to desi style – Taapsee kills it in a half-draped brown saree over a sheer black blouse. The brown oxford shoes are another win. What’s not to love?
POPxo recommends: Band Collar 3/4Th Sleeve Block Printed Kurti With Button Detailing (Rs. 850) by Sangria and Varanga Women Black Straight Printed Palazzos (Rs. 1,084) by Varanga
5. Romance feat. Pink & Red
An international hit on runaway and also high street fashion, this pretty pairing is the work of a colour cupid. It’s a fine line, so be careful not to pick shades that clash. For instance, Tamanna Bhatia’s Victorian style blouse and printed pink skirt = perfect addition to your Indian wardrobe, isn’t it?
POPxo recommends: Libas Women Red Printed A-Line Kurta (Rs. 899) by Libas and Anouk Women Magenta Flared Printed Palazzos (Rs. 749) by Anouk
6. Fresh feat. Mint Green & Black
Admit it, you need this in your desi wardrobe. Now. I don’t blame you, the colour combination of mint green with black is stunning and so is Aditi Rao Hydari. Take a cue from the actress and layer it up with a fun print for props. You’re welcome.
POPxo recommends: Printed A-Line Dress (Rs. 1,299) by Desi Fusion and Printed Chanderi Jacket with Sequins (Rs. 270) by Ajio
