Bored of saris and anarkalis on special occasions? Innovate

Go for pre-stitched saris in western silhouettes over traditional drape and try shararas with straight cut kurtas over anarkalis for an innovative look during special occasions if you're tired of the tried-and-tested, says an expert.

Designer Divya Gupta says one can break the conventionalism in fashion by opting for designs that look bold yet traditional. From flared palazzos and shararas, to opting for fabrics like chiffon and moonga silk, here are a few tips on how one can innovate with a traditional look:

* Silhouettes: The monotony of anarkalis has given way to straighter yet detailed, modern silhouettes teamed with the flared palazzos and skirts that accentuate the curvy Indian figure. Body hugging shararas in innovative lycra fabrics teamed with capes has become a key trend in Indian fashion.
The form has become non-conventional with stitched saris taking over the orthodox drape. Saris teamed with cape are also a modern take on the typical Indian wear for special occasions.

* Fabric: The extensive amalgamation of modern silhouettes with the traditional handloom fabric makes the current day occasion wear essentially rooted to Indian heritage. Silk in varied textures and patterns are ideal for special occasions. Interesting use of lycra is gaining popularity in the sense of comfort for shararas. The silhouettes are transforming, but the fabrics largely remain conventional with silk handloom fabrics in captivating patterns. Towards the end of the year, velvet in intriguing colours will be all the rage.

* Colors: There's a transition from bright tones to more subdued tones in the color palette. The colors well suited for the Indian skin tone, range from sage, gold, chrome yellow, steel, burnt orange, scarlet with undertones of grey and brown. The festive season shall see deep, rich colours with muted undertones ranging from plum, teal, henna, to brown. Rich, alluring colours with extensive embroidery shall be the flavor of the season.

* Accessories and styling: A look for special occasions is incomplete without jewellery. Indian outfits radiate grandeur when teamed with polki jewellery. Long polki necklaces with studs and low buns exude regality.