Chiconomical

Happy Diwali folks! Honestly, I've had a rough few weeks and this lookbook is literally coming out on Diwali day which I know isn't ideal but I hope it helps all you guys who are like me and have been working like crazy while trying to keep healthy at the same time. Or if you ended up with five hundred diwali party invitations for the week and can't actually afford to buy new outfits for every single party, this post is going to help you mix in your Diwali pieces with everyday clothes to create new, interesting (well, atleast for me) outfits! So with the festive spirit, let's dive into this post.

1. Shirt with a statement skirt



We're starting off with something that is super simple and uses two of my favorite things, a simple white shirt (and you KNOW I absolutely love it!) and a denim jacket. This look is for breaking up and using your regular office pieces. I added a denim jacket simply because I think that's a great addition to the regular look. If you're looking for an outfit for a house party, this could be the look for you.

2. All Monochrome Look



This look is for people who like minimal Diwali outfits. One thing that I always notice when I see the crazy expensive celebrity Diwali outfits is that they are actually quite minimal. If you're trying to look put together but still not worry about looking too loud, wearing a monochrome outfit makes you look well dressed and actually doesn't require a lot of effort. Just match shades and you're good to go!

3. Saree as a skirt/Maxi Dress



While I love wearing sarees as half-sarees, this look is actually highly inspired by something I saw on a draping website and think it looks so fierce. Draping has so many variations out there at the moment and I just had to create this look as we cannot not include a saree in an Indian outfit roundup. However, this look can be done with any plain saree too, you don't need an expensive fancy saree (the one I'm wearing is Rs. 1313) and just add the pleats to make it look good. I layered it over a plain black jumpsuit and the overall look is simple but striking!

4. Crop top and skirt as a flared kurta



This is yet another thing you've seen before. I've actually seen Komal Pandey show this with a ridiculously heavy lehenga and girls, I have my doubts on that if we're being honest but I like the idea. I added a simple maxi skirt to a full sleeved cold shoulder t-shirt and added a belt to make sure the skirt is secure in place. A pair of trousers masquerading as leggings and a black dupatta and you have your very own DIY anarkali. If you aren't a dupatta girl, you can most certainly skip it and wear this outfit the way it is with a pair of statement earrings and a whole lot of twirling!

5. Denims and a Jacket



Finally, if you're someone who cannot NOT wear their denims, even if it is the festive season, this look is for you. You can turn an uber casual outfit into a dressy look by simply throwing on a statement jacket. I'm using a jacket in a jacquard fabric that does all the work. If your statement piece isn't as long as mine, you can definitely wear what you have. Anything with an ethnic print or even a button down with an ethnic print or a shirt dress in something earthy works just as well. The trick is to add those pieces as layering pieces that can make your look go from everyday to boho chic.

I hope this post isn't too late for you to get some last minute inspiration for Diwali. Since we've just finished Navratri, I've actually reused a lot of pieces I wore for the Navratri style series since I firmly believe that you should be able to get the most out of the super expensive outfits that you buy for festivals and special occasions. If you enjoyed this lookbook please don't forget to comment down below with your favourite looks. I love hearing from you and it means a lot when you take the time to tell me your thoughts!

Hello hello! It's the long weekend and also the most colorful weekend of the year if you're an Indian (or just celebrate Indian festivals)! We've got the festival of colors coming up this Monday and while you make plans to celebrate it, the most important thing is what you wear. Since its a festival of colors and fun, you need to be dressed right for it without compromising on protecting your hair and skin. (Get some simple tips to take care of your hair this holi here). Anyway, let's dive right in to the fashion to make you look good this Holi.





The Clothes

The cliche White? Yes you can!! There are so many bargain white tshirts available on the streets right now you can score one for around Rs. 100 if you flex your bargain muscles. I got mine from a street stall in Bandra for 100 a few months ago. Not a fan of ruining your whites? Why not wear a bold color? I think a bright sunshine yellow is a great choice. Either way, if you aren't wearing white, wear bold colors to go with the festive mood!

The second, and often forgotten thing is fabric. While you're out finding your perfect outfit, don't forget to get the fabric right. Holi is as much a festival of water (yes, inspite of the water shortages in summers) as it is of color. While I personally don't like playing it with water you may have someone in the group who does start this bit. So keep in mind that fabrics sometimes get see through when wet. Look for thicker fabrics that are also quick dry. This will keep you from potentially embarrassing situations and also safer from catching a cold because of dampness!

The Accessories


Anyone who's actually played holi with a big group will tell you, accessories are life savers during holi! No, I don't mean get out all your fancy jewellery, I meant the essentials. First, sunglasses. You can't imagine how important these are when you're out playing with colors this holi! Honestly, eyes are one of the most precious and easily affected part of your body. So save your eyes from getting dusted with colors flying everywhere while still being ultra stylish. The best and coolest choice are reflectors or mirrored sunglasses! Holi Swag, done right!


While we're on it, another accessory that's often overlooked is the scarf. This is something that can add a beautiful pop of color to your outfit while still being functional. Tie a scarf as a headband or a turban to protect your hair or wear it around your neck to hid those potentially awkward peek a boos that may happen if you're partying with abandon. I personally love wearing a headband on Holi as its functional and fashionable!

The Shoes

Flats, flats and flats! There really is no other thing you can wear. Wear a pair of old comfortable sneakers or strappy sandals. You'll probably be chasing each other with a handful of colors and holi isn't the time to be wearing your fancy heels. So pull out those old comfy sandals and run to your heart's content.

The Hair



While I've already spoken at length about pre-holi haircare (Read all my tips here), let me quickly reiterate the top tips. Oil your hair, this is something that's been said a lot but i'll say it again! Secondly, don't forget to protect it from the sun by tying a trendy scarf or tying it up in intricate braids so that it doesn't get tangled and looks neat while you enjoy!

The Skin

The most affected part in Holi is always the skin. Don't forget to add a high SPF sunscreen and a moisturiser. The trick is to maintain a layer of protection between your skin and the harsh colors so that it doesn't lead to breakouts and skin damage.
Another quick tip...Remember to stay hydrated while playing Holi. Its always a battle for me to remember to drink water but please do! Since most Holi parties are out in the sun, its important to stay hydrated to maintain your glow

The colors



Finally, the one thing Holi would be incomplete without, the colors! There are so many organic and environmentally friendly colors out there right now, you don't need to buy harsh colors. If you still aren't convinced, invest a little bit of time to make your own! Heck if powdered colors are not your thing then you can play it with flowers too! Just remember to be safe and respectful of others' feelings when you go out to play! Be happy, enjoy and celebrate the festival of colors!

We're around a week away from Holi and its almost time to welcome the most colorful time of the year. Holi is always celebrated with joy and while the day is a riot of colors, I often hear people complaining about how it messes with their hair and skin. Since I've been saving my hair from holi damage for several years now, I figured I'd share my tips on pre-holi care.

Start Early! 

First off, make sure your hair is clean before you oil it. Yes, I know everyone tells you that you should oil your hair but first off, its extremely important to get rid of any dandruff or dirt that may already be present. Use a gentle shampoo, (I've seen tressemme or Nature's co works well) and make sure to get rid of any split end before holi.

Oil, Oil, Oil!

ANY girl who's worth her holi colors will tell you, oil is the key to saving your hair. If there's only time to do one thing before you go out to play, then its got to be oiling. Any hair oil works well, you could go for a scented one that's sure to keep you calm.

Braid it like a pro!

Another thing that girls often forget is that oiling isn't enough. If you've got hair that's fairly long, then its important to ensure its tied neatly. You could braid it in any number of stylish ways so as to keep it away from your face and make sure that its easy manage

Scarves are Saviours!

Finally, my most important tip is the most sensible one. If you can add a scarf or a bandana to keep your hair from directly getting exposed to the colors, there's nothing like it. I personally think that a scarf worn as a headband and a pair of reflectors is the coolest look for any Holi. You've got style and sense all rolled into one, and that's the best of both worlds right?

What are some of the things you've done to protect your hair this Holi? Go on, follow these haircare tips to enjoy a great holi. I'll be back next week with tips on Post Holi Haircare and how to deal with the damage, if any!

Navratri is over. I admit, inspite of being a 'not so big fan of the festival, I enjoyed myself. It was something that cheered me up and gave a little break from everyday life. Everyday life is just too much these days, and I have to say, the last couple of weeks have been extra difficult for me. But don't worry, I won't bore you with the details.

So, without much ado, here are the top five looks I loved from the Nine Days of the festival.