Ethnochic for the college chick

Ethnic wear is part of the dress code for many of the city colleges, like Christ University and St Joseph’s. For most youngsters, that translates to salwar kameez, which to be honest, can be quite monotonous. Here are some tricks to turn the ensemble into something much trendier.
 
Accessorise
The right accessories go a long way to put a new spin on the traditional outfit. ‘It’s always about the accessories. Be it bangles, strappy sandals or jute bags, accessories define your whole look, giving it that perfect finish. Cotton tunics and kurtis in bright hues and vibrant prints, when worn with tights or chudis, make for a very conventional yet pleasing look”, says Namrata G, fashion designer.

Now footwear is a relatively easy zone. Pick up some of the colourful Kolhapuris or mojris. They add an elegant edge and yet, are very comfortable to wear. Wooden bangles, colourful cuffs, jhumkas and balis go perfectly well with the ethnic attire, so load up on those too. Jute bags and colourful, embroidered jholas just accentuate the whole look.
 
Dress right
Dressing right for college translates to merciless exclusion of some kinds of clothes. Transparent clothes and deep necklines are to be shunned. Try and zero in on more elegant, embroidered or printed clothes instead of that radical outfit that looks good on a mannequin. Most importantly, make sure your whole outfit is visually coordinated so that it doesn’t look like a mishmash of everything”, adds Namrata.

“Nowadays, the whole trend is placed around the concept of ‘mix and match’. Pair kurtis with contrasting coloured slacks to get an edge over most. Kurtas look great with matching leggings and also, always go for motifs and colours that suit your skin tone and body type as this will give you a very smart look,” says fashion designer Anu Nagappa.
 
Tress talk
The perfect (and somewhat elusive) hairdo is something that requires zero maintenance and yet makes you look like a million dollars. Stylist Sangita Raj suggests, “Go for something cost-effective in terms of money and time. Do experiment with different styles, but make sure it is acceptable in a college and helps you retain your identity.”

For those with long hair, the buzz is that plaits are in. Fish tails and French plaits, messy braids and more are quite the fashionable hairdos, so try them out. “Don’t opt for too much of open hair but be bold enough to play around with accessories, especially flowers, as they accentuate the natural beauty of women,” ends Sangita.