Nothing says Holi like a striking white outfit and this year, designers seem to be doffing their hats to the all-white look. Everyone from Deepika Govind and Payal Pratap Singh to Aneeth Arora, Divya Reddy and Reshma Merchant showcased some pieces in the pristine shade as part of their Spring Summer collections. Stand out amidst the riot of colours with designer picks that boast plunging necklines, asymmetrical hemlines, tiered skirts and more.
Khadi romance
Home decor label AnanTaya ventures into apparel with their new collection, just in time for for the festival of colours. Geetanjali Kasliwal of AnanTaya picks this simple shift dress crafted from khadi cotton. The fabric is breathable and keeps the body cool, and the designer encourages customers to experiment with designs by dip-dyeing the dress if they wish to. “The collection explores khadi as a whole cloth. Use AnanTaya’s debut collection as your canvas this Holi,” she urges. Rs 2,650. At The Collonade, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru. Details: 9886998227
Less is more
Take your pick from Hyderabad-designer Divya Reddy’s latest collection, Shahebzadi, which she presented at Lakme Fashion Week Summer Resort 2017 recently. “The organic cotton outfits from my latest Spring/Summer collection fit the bill. They are glamorous and comfortable at the same time,” says Divya. The dresses are easily washable, and hence suitable for Holi. “Team it up with chunky silver jewellery and colourful trendy aviators,” says the designer. Rs 18,000 onwards.
Details:www.facebook.com/Divyareddydesigns/
Colour files
If you are feeling a little adventurous, designer Deepika Govind recommends colour blocking. “When executed stylishly, this combination can make a strong statement. Pair a white shirt with scarlet trousers, canary yellow shorts or simple denim shorts. Or you could combine the white with prints to create a quirky yet stylish mix.” For a more conventional look, try on a white asymmetrical tunic with white leggings, wide-leg ombre-dyed trousers or white culottes. Distressed jeans are also a safe bet. “You can even pair white with pastels for a cool, fresh look.” she adds. Long, tight and transparent clothes are a no-no according to Deepika. Rs 20,000 onwards. Details: facebook.com/Deepikagovind/
Classic delight
New-Delhi based designer Aneeth Arora is a stickler for tradition when it comes to colours for Holi. Keeping in line with her label’s philosophy of sustainable and upcycled fashion, the NIFT Ahmedabad graduate suggests a cotton chikankari kurta or a cotton Pero shirt teamed up with classic blue jeans and a pair of floral print white sneakers. “If you’re looking to stand out in a crowd, then Pero’s latest collection, The Forbidden Garden, featuring floral prints and handmade crochet flowers should also do the trick,” says Aneeth. Rs 15,800 onwards. Details: facebook.com/ilovepero/
Light statement
Reshma Merchant, co-founder of House of Milk, retains the spirit of the festival, but looks to add a hint of colour. “Always maintain the element of white in an ensemble even if you are choosing a shade like beige.Jumpsuits from the White Rose collection are a convenient way to ensure you have fun,” she says. Throw on a pair of strappy flats or sneakers, style your hair in a top knot, and you’re good to go.Rs 16,000 onwards. Details: houseofmilk.com
Minimal mandate
As opposed to the norm of the season, Kochi-based designer Sreejith Jeevan tends to favour ivories. “Our traditional palette has always had ivories and jasmine whites,” explains the NIFT graduate, who recommends this panelled long cotton dress. Inspired by the overlapping nature of plantain leaves, he suggests a modern look for this minimal outfit by accessorising it up with chunky fabric jewellery. Rs 1,550 onwards. Details: rouka.in
By the tier
Jaya Bhatt and Ruchi Tripathi of New Delhi-based sustainable label Indigene swear by khadi cotton for Holi, given the comfort factor and unpredictable weather conditions. “Try a layered garment look, in case you decide to play wet Holi,” shares Jaya, recommending a tiered white dress featuring shades of white from muted to pristine. A part of their latest ensemble ‘Modest Luxury’ which debuted at the Lakme Fashion Week SR 17, this one is best teamed with a silk scarf. Rs10,000 onwards. Details: indigenecraft.com
Drape play
Designer Payal Pratap suggests you make a statement in this sari-gown from her line, Twist In My Sobriety. The graceful ecru garment boasts diamond embroidery work and features a gown with gathers in the front and a loosely falling pallu. “Style it with statement turquoise earrings to give off a summer vibe,” says Payal. Rs 33,500 at Collage, Greams Road. Details: 28291443