Considering the latest trend, desi attires are in vogue, says designer Vaishali Shadangule. Known for her contemporary designs from Indian hand-woven textiles which she recently showcased at the Wills Lifestyle Autumn/Winter Fashion Week, the designer is of the opinion that dhoti which was merely used as a fabric to drape has become an essential style statement these days.
“Earlier it was a piece of cloth that men used to wear. With the passage of time people thought to make it more comfortable and stitched it. Now, designers are experimenting with it in different silhouettes and styles, making it a modern alternative to the trouser,” she says.
At the Lakme Fashion Week held in Mumbai this year, designer Tarun Tahiliani presented a variety of styles in dhoti. He introduced the garment in a fluid and voluminous pattern on a breezy fabric followed by another dhoti pant with a more structured pattern in white colour.
Similarly designers like Payal Pratap Singh and Stephany D’ Souza played with colours. Payal, for instance, teamed a punchy orange dhoti pant with an embroidered blouse.
Giving a contrasting touch, she teamed a nude coloured dhoti with an orange jacket. Designer Stephany played with a summery lime-green tone. Giving a modern gypsy look to the attire, designer Krishna Mehta worked on monochromatic patterns.
Vaishali states that, “Graphic print dhoti is the latest trend. Dhoti pant teamed up with a spaghetti top and a nice scarf will give that ultimate chic look. Otherwise, it can also be paired with ponchos, mid-length tunics and scooped-neck T-shirts, to prove the versatility of the style.”
Generally, dhoti pants are confused with a Patiala salwar or harem pants which do look alike, to some extent. But the placement of pleats that distinguishes a dhoti from other garments. For dhotis, the pleating is done on the inside side of the leg.
Since the attire is flowy, stylists suggest it looks good on all body types except those whose hips are broader. Since it adds volume to the body, people tend to look stout. But that be can be sorted out if paired with A line fitted top or a kurta.
One can give a stylish look to this contemporary attire by carrying a jute bag along with it. If you are experimental you could also wear a belt. As for make-up, kajal alone can do wonders whereas a bindi can change your overall personality.