Get the right look this Gudi Padwa
Come Friday and Maharashtrian families in the city will gear up to celebrate one of the most auspicious days of the year —
Gudi Padwa. As per the Hindu calendar, this festival includes putting up gudis. It’s time to go traditional. You can celebrate the festival by flaunting your ethnic side and woo your friends with your ‘Marathmola’ look. We help you with a guide to look your traditional best on this festival.
Nauvari No other outfit can offer you the grace that a Nauvari saree can.
The elegance of the saree, combined with the right jewellery, is unmatched. Gudi Padwa is the best occasion to put on a Nauvari and show off your cultural richness. However, draping the Nauvari can be complicated. The solution for this is a stitched, ready-to-wear Nauvari. Stylist Pradnya Bhalekar says, "You can wear a stitched Nauvari like a salwar. It is as simple as wearing your favourite pair of denims. Besides, you don’t have to worry that the drape might come off. Make sure you buy a Nauvari with a proper fabric. Since it’s stitched, the saree might make you look plump. So, always go for pure silk or a soft cotton fabric and avoid raw silk or Calcutta cotton." Traditional jewellery Tired of wearing temple, antique or tribal jewellery? Want to stand out and look different from others? Then go in for traditional Maharashtrian ornaments. Apart from the regular Nath and Thushi, there a are myriad of options for you to try on. Kolhapuri saaj, mohanmal, bormal, chapalahaar, bugdi, kaan, vaki, putalyachi maal, ranihaar, lakshmihaar... the options are limitless, to give you an imperial look. Atul Thakker, owner of an art jewellery shop, says, "Bajirao Mastani jewellery and Jai Malhar jewellery are currently trending. Women prefer to buy complete sets that they have seen in famous movies and serials. The look of Banu and Mhalsa is the most sought after. Jhumke, vel, tode and heavy sets are in demand. These imitation ornaments are easy on the pocket too. They are available from `500 onwards."
Paithani No Maharashtraian wardrobe is complete without this ‘yards of Royalty’. If you are not in a mood for complete traditional attire, you can always go for a Paithani. Pair it with a trendy blouse and contemporary accessories.
Style it right Many women think that traditional Maharastrian hair style means a simple bun — ambada. But that’s not true. "Khopa (a traditional pattern of hair bun) looks elegant with Marathi attire. Adorn it with hairpins, broaches or traditional mudfool. A low bun also suits well with a Nauvari saree,"says Bhalekar. Keep your make-up simple. "Highlight the eyes. Use kohl and eye-liner to get a smoky look. But one should avoid glossy make-up. Matte works best with customary garb. When you wear a Paithani or Nauvari, the borders are usually golden and heavy, therefore, use no shimmer to maintain a balanced look," informs Bhalekar.
Men have a choice too Though options for men are limited, they are worth a try. Men can opt for a simple salwar-kurta or experiment with a dhoti. Tying a pheta is a must to get the traditional look. Complete your look with a pair of Kolhapuri chappals and the Marathi Mavala is set to rock.
-Anagha.Pathak@timesgroup.com