Tailored to perfection

Ah, the choli! That quintessential Indian garment. Elegant, feminine and yet sensual, it lends itself to so many moods and interpretations.It is a designer’s dream and can be transformed into trendy or traditional depending on the wearer and the occasion,” sighs Ramesh Dembla, who incidently likes to design two to three cholis per saree to increase the versatility factor.

Ramesh is passionate about his choli designs and says that there is no dearth of inspiration when it comes to creating customised cholis to go with different looks.

Make a statement

“Well, off the cuff I can think of many styles that reflect the confident woman of today. Admittedly you need to be slim and well toned to carry off  them, but they make a smashing head turning style statement!” he enthuses.

“The variations are endless — the delicate spaghetti strap or halter neck best worn with a built in bra. The figure hugging corset or the sophisticated off shoulder. Then  there’s the tie-up and peek-a-boo with cut out back panels — rustic chic,” he explains. He further says: “Adding Western cuts to cholis along with matching bejeweled belts which can be worn outside the saree like low waist chain is another innovation for the more adventurous.”

What's out as far as cholis are concerned? “Wearing the saree with the identical coloured blouse is a definite no-no. It’s outdated and passe. Wear a contrast mix and match blouse. Make it interesting by using different fabrics and adding embroidery, sequins, lace, beads or crystals for effect,” he emphasises.