Style file: How to sizzle in a sari

We caught up designer Nandita Thirani who is showing for the second time at the Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai. She tips us off on how to drape the sari right, so that it accentuates your curves and covers up the flaws.

Nandita classifies body types into two categories: slender and heavy. "Depending on your body type, there are certain rules to follow when you wear a sari," she says.

PAGE_BREAK

Heavy woes

Unfortunately there are a few restrictions with regard to what kind of sari you can wear or what drape will look good on you. But that does not mean you can't look sexy in a sari.

PAGE_BREAK

Follow these tips:

• Net styles are a no-no. Also, other body-hugging fabrics like lycra, georgette and chiffon. These only accentuate your figure and make you look broader.
• Stick to fabric like silks and soft cottons, which have a nice fall. These fabrics give the illusion that your body is smaller than it actually is.
• Use a duo-tone pallu. How this works: imagine if you have a darker colour (say black) outlining your midriff portion and a lighter colour inside. This automatically will make you look smaller. Make sure you leave the pallu loose (without folding it), a good way to cover up a flabby tummy.
• Choose a sari that suits you. For example, Shilpa Shetty can pull off a sexy chiffon sari with oomph. But Hema Malini looks gorgeous in a classy silk number.
• Steer clear of waist ornaments like the plague. They are not flattering if you have a tummy. Instead highlight your best features. For instance, long chandelier earrings look great with a long slender neck.

Slender designs

If you have a flat tummy or are blessed with height, there is much you can do with saris.

You can fold your pallu into really thin folds. This shows off most of your tummy. Accessorise with a sexy jewelled waistband to show off those washboard abs.

PAGE_BREAK

Accessorise me

Whatever your body type, work those accessories.

• A pouch looks beautiful with a sari. Go for ones with a golden or silver handle or chain, which cane be strung from your wrist.
• Carry a small purse or clutch along with your sari.
• If your sari is on the brighter side, make sure the accessories are not too OTT (over the top). You can carry off a jewelled sari with a simple choker and diamond studs for earrings.
• Avoid wearing long necklaces with heavy saris; it could look a little tacky.
• Choose simple golden or silver slip-ons for footwear.
• Keep hair and makeup as basic as possible.