You don’t always need a Gucci or a Prada to make heads turn. But simple and stylish ‘unbranded’ pieces, if teamed up smartly can make you a fashionista. That’s the trend set by Bollywood beauty Sonam Kapoor, the new-age diva, who in her latest film I Hate Love Storys has pulled off a great look with simple yet funky ensembles.
And no, you don’t need Armani to help you as street shopping is the way to go about it. “The high street today churns out latest trends quicker than most hi-end luxury fashion brands. People can focus more towards an investment piece, like a jacket or a classic little black dress, which can be repeated season after season. The ‘it’ pieces don’t necessarily have to be from a hi-end brand. Mixing up brands is another way to reinvent your look, old with new, designer with high street always translates better than a head to toe branded outfit. Ironically, and personally for me, the more money or brands your outfit screams, the lesser the appeal. Imagination and innovation is the key,” says fashion designer Ayesha Depala, who has designed for Sonam in Aisha.
Get a classic look, by just teaming up a nice white dress with a simple broad floral belt or a bright pair of shoes, suggests designer Anjalee Kapoor. “Style is not only about flaunting labels, it’s about creating the right impression with what you wear. Accessories play a great role and these always need not be hi-end, but creatively put together,” she says.
Fashion designer Reynu Taandon says that spending money doesn’t bring any class, it’s more about the attitude you carry along. “A simple black or white T-shirt from any local market, which doesn’t cost more than Rs 200, if teamed up with bright red or maroon beads looks fabulous. You also need a personality to pull it off well,” she says.
Be it her simple shorts and Bermudas with basic T-shirts, Sonam manages to get that international look. “Even our basic cotton kurtis in bright colours if properly accessorised can turn one into a perfect party diva. Many of my clients, both Indian and foreign love these ethnic yet tasteful garments,” she adds.
An interesting stole carried with the simplest of skirts and a basic top is something that can work wonders on your overall look, suggests stylist Austin. “A pair of gladiators with your capris, a nice huge bag or a jhola or even something interesting done to your hair is enough to rock it,” he says. “Youngsters are actually going international when it comes to style and aren’t mindlessly spending on brands,” he adds.
Fashion designer Nida Mahmood is known for her funky style. She can carry off a nice tote with a pair of skinny jeans, basic T-shirt and jazz up the attire with colourful bangles.
She suggests, “It is very easy to get a cool look without having to spend too much on brands. The most important thing is to understand what suits your style. One must never ape someone else. Try zauove pants with a cool graphic T-shirt and a fun chunky belt with gladiators. You could throw in a jhola bag. Or try cotton shirt tops with checkered or printed shorts. Throw in some coloured beads. A pair of gladiators work wonderfully for this look too.”