Lights, camera, Iftar

The festive season in India is a platform for new fashion trends. While the festival of light, Diwali, is a strong fashion season in itself, iftar parties are also emerging as a strong fashion platform and segment. It’s a month-long season of parties, and celebs are photographed attending the dos in ethnic outfits that make strong statements. From Shilpa Shetty Kundra’s bold black and gold sharara accessorised with chandelier earrings, to Huma Qureshi’s elegant outfit with dazzling jewellery, celebrities are making style statements this festive season.

Esha Gupta, founder of House of Zeniaa, believes that the focus has shifted from embellished chiffons and silks, to light, loose-fitted cottons. “However, the power of fabric is complemented with intricate embroidery and innovative cuts in order for you to make the perfect style statement this season. Other trends that we have been noticing are pairing of bold colours. At the recent iftar party hosted by Baba Siddique, actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra paired black and gold and stood out in the crowd.”

Katrina Kaif in blue sharara ensemble from designer Anjul Bhandari.

Adding to it designer Kavita Bhartia shares, “As the climate remains hot during the month of Ramzan, iftar wear has evolved over time to suit this scorching heat. You can pair an embroidered cape with subtle long kurti, sari or high waist pants to maintain a delicate and minimalistic look.” Bhartia feels that this season calls for embroidered anarkalis, pastel shararas, palazzos and skirts paired with long kurtis and beautiful dupattas for a traditional iftar party.

Designer Payal Jain feels one should incorporate the elements of celebration in a personalised manner. “One can opt for different silhouettes, versions of kimonos or even try kaftans which complement high heels, along with giving a dramatic touch. For those who prefer flats, skirts are a great option.”

Must-haves
With iftar parties becoming more exclusive and elaborate, the choice of attire is a much considered selection, in sync with the trending styles. And a few things have emerged as the must-haves of the season. According to Gupta, one of them is a trendsetting achkan which will grab eyeballs at the party. “If you’re not a sari girl, go for super stylish dhoti pants. It’s for people who are open to experimenting with their looks and make a splash at the iftar party. Other must-haves include polki and diamond earrings and an embroidered elegant clutch.”

Fusion Wear
Indian fusion wear has been trending for some time now. Talking about iftar trends, Gupta adds, “Achkans are perfect for iftar parties to make a style statement. It is traditional Indian wear with a twist to it. This year many people were seen wearing western clothes accessorised with traditional jewellery. Even abayas are very big during iftar, western abayas with smart silhouettes and well accesorised make for a perfect iftar outfit.”

Bhartia suggests, “Asymmetric kurta paired with pants, or a floral embroidered dress paired with a pastel cape.”

Designers Benita and Nikita share few more ensemble suggestions, “Traditional gharara pants with flounces teamed with long jackets in pastel shades, palazzo pants with short kurtis and traditional Indian zari duppattas will definitely make heads turn. One can even try floor-length tunics with embellished pants, chikankari kalidaars or lehanga with modern cholis.”