One thing that you may need to relearn about cocktail saris is that, unlike how your mum may be wearing them, you can really experiment with yours according to your convenience and mood. There is no hard and fast rule on pairing the sari with the blouse it may have originally come with. If you've lived your life between your hometown and your work town, there are chances that you may have bought saris, brocade pants or embellished skirts whose blouses did not excite you enough to be work for a dramatic cocktail event. Many of you may have also resorted to wearing crop tops bought in last-minute desperation from the nearest mall. But as we charge through the ongoing wedding season, here's how you can just stock up on mix-and-match blouses that will go with your cocktail saris for this and upcoming wedding seasons.
Off-shoulder
The allure of off-shouldered blouses is that they let you play to your décolletage. Show off those shoulder blades with an off-shoulder blouse that seamlessly blends modern style with traditional grace. This style works best with accessories like a chunky choker or a necklace, and a pair of studs to go with it.
High neck
Whether it is a colleague's cocktail or an intimate family event, a high-neck blouse can elevate your lehenga or sari into a modern ensemble. High-necked tops and blouses usually add a touch of sophistication which is undefeated. Keep the hair away from the face for full impact and go with shoulder-grazing danglers.
Sheer delight
Experiment with sheer fabrics for an ethereal effect. Sheer sleeves or back designs can add a touch of mystery to your presence. Sheer fabrics are the smartest way to tease without showing. If the vibe is femme fatale, sheer has you covered.
Peek-a-boo back
A blouse with an intricate cutout or a low-back design adds a hint of playfulness without compromising traditional aesthetics. Go for a sneaky cutout above the upper waistline or at the side of your blouse to give your outfit an extra edge.
Up-the-sleeves
Sleeves have never not been a feature you can experiment with in the history of dress-up. Dramatic sleeves add a flair to your lehenga look, creating a perfect blend of vintage and modern fashion. Opt for bell sleeves or a puffy one to give you that Bollywood princess feel.
Cape chic
If this is a cocktail where you can confidently go for high-octane glam, consider a cape. A caped blouse can give you that main character effect, and only go this route if you know you will not outshine the bride…Opt for solid colours over vibrant patterns so they know you mean business.
The corset case
Going for the sexy siren look on cocktail night? Consider a corset-style blouse. The structured silhouette enhances your curves and celebrates the female form. Plus, who wouldn't want to look straight out of a period drama at least one wedding a year? It is Bridgerton, but making it desi.
Draped in elegance
Experiment with draped or pleated details on your blouse for a unique touch. This will add a charming touch of fluidity to your attire. Leave the demure behind and go for draped blouses for a high-glamour gala.
The halter neck
A halter neck blouse is a timeless choice that is effortlessly poised. It is never a wrong choice for any occasion. Go for simple silhouettes in solid colors to add that sleek form. Pair it with statement earrings, or don't. A halter top is equally as good without being styled too much.
Ruffle finesse
Ruffles add a touch of whimsy to the traditional attire. If you are worried about it looking too heavy, go for ruffles in sheer materials to give it that airy feel. A great choice if you are someone who loves to turn heads.
Jacketed grace
Pair your lehenga with a jacket-style blouse for a little bit of structure. Embroidered or tuxedo-styled jackets elevate formal wear to another level. Keep the hair sleek to enhance the finesse of a strong tailored blouse.
Cold shoulder couture
Power shoulders but make them bare. This design allows you to add a lot of flair without showing too much. Fitted sleeves work best when you want to go cold shoulder on your attire. Soft curls and smoky eyes should compliment them just as fine.
Asymmetrical allure
Throw off the balance with an asymmetrical blouse. Get playful and edgy with your ensemble. You can go for a one-shoulder blouse with nice fine detailing. Metallic colours, cool tones, and the right amount of sparkle will do the job of making it look fashionable and not overly elaborate.
Tie it up
A blouse with a stylish back knot or tie detail can instantly elevate your lehenga look. It is also a nice way to incorporate the Coquette trend without looking too kitsch. A lace-up blouse will work wonders for you if you prefer your blouses without any shiny embellishments.
Layered blouses
Blouses with different layers add a feel of reality to the ensemble. This will add depth and texture without having to try too hard. Keep it lightweight by going slow on the makeup and accessories. Carry a nice purse that compliments the layers of this look.
Also read:
The perfect blouse is a wardrobe flex. Here are 5 times Janhvi Kapoor aced a stylish blouse
5 not-so-basic blouses from Dia Mirza’s collection that need to be in your closet now
Your celebrity guide to wearing embellished blouses this wedding season
