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Desi Diva

By Shilpa Arora

Holiday Fashion


Looking to jazz up the holiday season? Whether you’re ushering in the New Year with a splash, headed to the office or enjoying a quiet evening with friends, a little finesse will go a long way to make you stand out from the crowd. Read further to find out how to waltz through the holiday season in style.


New Year’s Eve
Perhaps you celebrate New Year's Eve and Christmas as one big holiday event or maybe you honor each separately. Whatever your tradition, likely there are other people involved. When surrounded by people you love, the best course of action is often to create a place of warmth and comfort. If you’d like to keep your look Indo-Western, choose a simple salwar kameez or fitted camisole with a long Western skirt instead of the traditional lehenga skirt. Like the lehenga better? A fitted camisole will easily replace the look of a choli by adding a modern, fun twist. Choose shades and fabrics that are perfect for a season of indulgence and celebration: rich plums, dark greens and blues. And of course, iridescent reds and oranges are classic, sensuous options. For a unique touch, try draping a tousled scarf across your shoulders. Since you’re baring your arms, bracelets in metallic gold or silver will look dazzling. Just remember, sometimes elegance says more than excessive bling. If you’re daring enough, forgo the extra jewelry in favor of clean lines, pulled back hair, and neutral makeup. Dare to shine in the real you when ushering in the New Year!


Photographer: Rodrigo Torres

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The Office Party
When in doubt, go with black. The office party is a place to showcase your panache while maintaining your dignity, and nothing says sophisticated like a noir ensemble. Choose high quality, tailored fabrics since they will likely last you for more than a few seasons. Try not to go overboard with frills or lace, and instead, choose an ensemble that is comfortable yet elegant. Think about blended crepe or silk trousers, paired with a fitted top. A knee length skirt that hugs your contours, topped with a classic turtleneck, is another fine option. Patterned tights offer a feminine, sensual effect while still maintaining a professional look. Want to dazzle your colleagues with color? Try a rich crushed velvet blazer in cranberry or a deep teal over a form-fitting lycra top. Wear a layered chain or fitted locket, and a dangly charm bracelet to add pizzazz to all the hand shaking you’ll be doing. Finally, closed toe shoes are a must! So for you gals who love open-toed heels and mules, go for it— in the spring, that is.

Celebrate Good Times…Come on!
Chances are several party invites will be sprinkled throughout your calendar, so you’ll need a flexible outfit that can be worn on a variety of occasions. This is the outfit you can grab for that impromptu holiday date, an after-work detour to the local pub, or a spontaneous cocktail party— in your very own living room! Go for a classic black dress (knee to mid-length is best) or dark jeans and a vintage top— two outfits that will never go out of style. Try boot cut or dark stonewashed jeans with an Indian-inspired tunic (just make sure it’s not cotton; silk or satin is dressier). Not into fusion? A lace or ribbed shirt with an eye catching, tasteful pattern would be a great choice as well. Ankle boots or kitten heels will add mileage to your style without the pain, but for those who like a challenge, high heels are a quick way to add class and sass to any outfit. To accessorize, try dangling earrings with a long, clean lines instead of the trendy chandelier. These can add grace to your look. Remember to keep jewelry to one or two key pieces that balance each other. If you decide to go with a chunky bracelet, stay away from a heavy necklace and stick with earrings instead. Finally, don’t forget to throw on a scarf or pashmina to finish.



Shilpa Arora is a California-based freelance writer. She has written on various subjects ranging from fashion to health and wellness.


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