Do Denim This Diwali
Few fabrics can claim to have the universal appeal that denim has. Beloved the world over, this thick, woven yardage transcends class, geographical boundaries and fashion trends like no other. Whilst blue denims are synonymous with jeans and jackets, this Diwali we find innovative ways to incorporate the trusty true blue into festive ensembles.
Indigo Diaries
Several Fashion Week favorites are reinterpreting this previously masculine staple for their exclusive women’s wear. Delhi designer Anubha Jain became famous overnight for her special collection of hand-dyed denim sarees. The twenty-five-year-old was inspired by her young friends to use denim in her designs and said, “With the exception of Masaba Gupta and Satya Paul, the cool, trendy sari options for young girls are fairly limited. I chose denim because it is something that most youth identify with and it’s also never been turned into a sari before.” Jain creates unique bandhini and batik-inspired motifs to create Indo-western kurtas and jackets which are perfect for festive parties. Fashion Week regulars Payal Pratap and Masaba Gupta have used soft denim to craft trendy dhoti pants for their discerning clientele. Team these flared bottoms with an off-shoulder poncho or a fitted brocade kurti for a pre-Diwali card party.
High Street: High Fashion
As always, for more affordable options we can head over to the high street and to independent labels. We recommend ethical brands such as H&M and Marks & Spencer who have thorough policies for recycling fabrics and against animal testing. These popular international brands have been using denim-inspired chambray fabric for dresses and tunics this season. Chambray is a milder, softer version of denim; only the weave differentiates the two fabrics. You could also team an off-shoulder denim or chambray top with an ethnic maxi skirt and statement jewelry for a festive yet contemporary look. And keep an eye out for printed denim jeans and skirts which are perfect for a pool party or a quick Goa getaway!
