Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe may have hosted an elaborate state banquet for visiting US president Donald Trump, but it was Hope Hicks, the White House communications director, who stole the show. She stood out by choosing to wear a tuxedo over a formal gown. She looked smart, sharp and ever so stylish! Many women are embracing the tux these days, not afraid of levelling up from the more casual pant suit.
Westerners have the physique to carry it off. They’re usually taller, compared to the average Indian woman, and are likely to look great in a tux with minimal effort. Stylists Nandita Mahtani and Bornali Talukdar, who have worked with many A-listers, give tips on how Indian women too can slay the look.
“Tuxedos are all about power dressing. Contrary to what people generally think, it suits women of all frames with the right cut and the right body language. At the end of the day, it’s not about a tux being suitable for westerners/Indians, but about how a woman chooses to carry it. Cut or pattern as well as a confident body language plays a huge part,” says Bornali, assuring that Indians can very well carry off a tux.
People on the heavier side can go for a wide-legged trouser with a double brisket jacket, while women with a slim figure must go for a slim leg trouser with a single button jacket, says Nandita Mahtani, stylist.
Nandita Mahtani could not agree more and has herself worn tuxedos and pant suits on many occasions. She says, “A tux can look good on anyone, provided they choose the right kind one for their body type. People on the heavier side can go for a wide-legged trouser with a double brisket jacket, while women with a slim figure must go for a slim leg trouser with a single button jacket. If you want to go the traditional way, you can wear a simple shirt inside with a satin bow. If you’re up for a bold look, the shirt inside can be either a strappy one or like a negligee. When it comes to the hair, either go for a sexy low bun or a high ponytail, if you’re wearing a bow. If your neckline is low, open hair is the way to go. A pearly white shade for a tux would look classy and glamourous. If you’re attending a serious occasion, a nice burgundy, navy blue or black tux would be perfect. If one has the personality to carry it off, you can go for red or soft pink, for informal events. I would recommend stilettos for a feminine touch. Also, try to keep the accessories simple. A line of pearls would look good with a buttoned-up shirt.”
