You just can't go wrong with... a traditional South Indian look
Getting down to writing and publishing a post seems to be a herculean task these days. I have been wanting to do atleast a blog post every month and before I knew it, January is behind us. Between mommy duties, travel and a special something that I have been working on, this post got to the bottom of my monthly to-do list; but I’m super glad to be finally doing this. I’m hoping to do an ongoing series on looks that you just can’t go wrong with and this one marks the beginning :-)
I don’t usually have a lot many occasions to wear traditional outfits to, but this look exemplifies what I’d love to wear to a traditional themed do; it is classic, transcends fleeting trends; it is colourful, something that I usually reserve for special occasions; it is rich but not over the top.
I usually build my look around one element, the saree in this case. The saree was the first pick and all other elements like the jewellery, hair and makeup picked out after to bring together the whole look. Let me break down the look for you and my thought process when I say you can’t go wrong with it.
Saree - From Banarasi to Kanchipuram, there is quite the choice when you choose to go traditional. What drew me to this saree were the colors on it. I am someone who is usually in neutrals or pastels, but I often dive to the other end with my traditional wear. How can one resist the vibrant colour palette when it comes to Indian ethnic wear! The colours seemed to complement my complexion and that it is one of the softest silks that I have draped made the choice very easy. For all those who asked, the saree is from Mysore Saree Udyog in Bangalore. When it comes to traditional sarees, opt for a soft easy drape in a colour that complements your complexion and motifs that are distinct.
Jewellery - What is investment in jewellery without a kasumala for a South Indian? Add to the list jhumka, manga mala, guttapusalu, a few antique temple jewellery pieces, a few kadas and you have enough to adorn a bride. On a serious note, kasumala is a perfect choice to pair with and complete a traditional look. In many cultures, it is usual to layer neckpieces as well; but where I come from layering is something that is usually reserved for brides and you don’t want to run the risk of being overdressed :). So I chose this kasumala and a bangle both from Kirtilal and a pair of jhumkas from Kirthi Diamond Jewellery to accessorise the look.
Makeup and Hair - A low bun with mullapoo, kohl rimmed eyes and a deep maroon pottu is what traditional hair and makeup means to me sans any of its contemporary variations. And hence these were my go-to while styling this look. I have just used a brown kohl pencil on my lid and dusted some nude brown eye shadow over to set it in place; have not even bothered to define my crease and its just the way I like it. Its not complete or technically perfect in any sense, but it made me feel beautiful and I’d like to believe it suits me. Let me tell you, it’s an easy alternative to a smokey eye.
Why do I call this look something that you can’t go wrong with? Because this is home for us; something that we don’t need to try hard at. I see this look as simple traditional incorporating elements that are all heritage. It is also one that you can build on and add more opulence by layering jewellery, wearing a more elaborate blouse, more details in hair and makeup and the works. Just being conscious of not bringing in too many overpowering elements is key; else as I said earlier, its home for us :)
Would you like to see more of such posts? Do let me know :)
