Is there a garment or accessory you would like to see come back in style?

There is no doubt that fashion has progressed by leaps and bounds in the last 15 years in India. Yet, I have this sinking feeling every time I sit at an airport or a mall that somehow women looked more elegant 16 years ago. That the humble sari that has been tossed off for the light dress did more for Indian curves.

That while clothes are more practical today, something of feminine grace is lost. It is my eternal love for the sari that really pushed me to transcend traditional definitions and make the silhouette universally appealing. Both concept saris and traditional ones paired with a well-tailored jacket are my favourite to this day.

Prints, stripes, colours or a particular silhouette… what do you predict is going to be the next big thing?

I think easy-to-wear separates are the trend. You can mix and match different silhouettes like dhoti pants, lungi skirts, tunics, t-shirts, innovative kurtas and asymmetrical hemlines for a fresh look. It’s now much more subtle and chic. Also individualise it, so you are not wearing a look from just one designer. It’s all about individuality.

SUHANI PITTIE, JEWELLERY DESIGNER

What are the trends for 2016?

I don’t like to use the word trend. Everything is trendy if you love it and it has functionality for you. That said, exciting new ornaments are always fun to try. Midi rings, palm cuffs, anklets, ear buttons, metal belts, and harnesses are some styles. Men can wear cufflinks, pocket watches and tie-bars. Both men and women can mix bracelets with their watch. But mind you, these have always been around. You are just seeing them now in a modern avatar that is practical and can be part of a regular modern wardrobe.

How can one incorporate jewellery into the work wardrobe?

Professional needn’t be boring. Wear a ‘haslee’ under your collar. Or wear your scarf with a brooch. Always wear a classy watch. If the environment allows it, then wear simple long-chain earrings. Avoid bracelets that jingle; they could be distracting. Men can go crazy experimenting with cufflink designs. A sleek watch and maybe a tie-pin and you are good to go. A smart business card case is always a good accessory.

Maang Tikkas seem to have had a revival. Is there any other piece of jewellery you like to see back in fashion?

I won’t call it a revival. They are a staple in every Indian wedding and have been forever. They are just seeing modern avatars. I have myself worked on many interpretations of traditional ornaments and since nothing has really gone out of style, I would just like to say that I would love to see new renditions of, say, the nath.

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