Capsule winter wardrobe
The elusive winter season has made a gracious appearance and we Dhakaiites cannot be happier. 'Tis the season to be merry and festive, what with all the dawats and parties one has to attend for we love to celebrate life at this time of the year!
There is a beautiful chill in the air, which means warm clothing is in order, but where does one begin when selecting the items needed to deal with the changing weather? While daytimes are relatively warmer, evenings are cooler and call for something altogether fancy, owing to the parties and outings happening almost every other day. But another conundrum makes things more confusing —winter clothes are stored away throughout the year so unpacking a whole host of them makes no sense as it would add unnecessary clutter to valuable closet real estate. However, keeping warm in style is paramount.
Keeping these issues in mind, this week Star Lifestyle has put together a cheat sheet of the key items one needs to look fabulous and stay warm. The versatility of these pieces will allow you to play around with multiple combinations that you will have you looking stylish, no matter what the occasion.
LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET
An absolute essential, this piece will keep you warm while looking chic. Perfect for cold mornings when you are on your way to work/school/university, it is a must have. It also complements most outfits, adding the right amount of polish. Choose one that fits well in soft leather, fleece or light wool. Dark colours look elegant, but softer shades such as mauve, beige, and tan also look great.
CHUNKY, OVERSIZED KNIT SWEATER
Perfect for casual hang outs and coffee runs, this item is easy-going and looks cute. When paired with skinny pants and ballet flats, it provides a right balance of style and comfort. Choose unusual pastel shades such as lilac, mint or periwinkle.
FULL-SLEEVED TOP
Options are endless for this piece. You could choose a thin, gauzy fleece top or a black turtleneck. A full-sleeved top will keep you warm while making your boring denim look chic and winter ready.
LONG SWEATER
A long sweater with full sleeves can be worn on top of a kameez as well as pants, which makes it extremely versatile. Choose a neutral colour such as black, tan, maroon or white to make it work with the rest of your wardrobe. Wear it to work, to run errands, or to grab coffee with friends.
A HERITAGE SHAWL
This could be an heirloom, which has seen many magical evenings in the past. Your mother's priceless Jamawar, a wispy Pashmina, a Nakshi shawl, or a Karandi chador will add traditional charm to your kameez and gharara, making you stand out from a crowd.
SOMETHING FURRY
Faux fur has been on the international fashion radar in a major way last year, and fashionistas in Dhaka city are embracing this trend and how! A faux fur wrap or a stole will instantly elevate your sari, kameez or gown, adding a fabulously regal touch to it.
SOMETHING VELVET
A fabric of choice, velvet is incredibly trendy right now and looks very chic. A blouse, a kameez, or a velvet shawl will bring the right amount of elegance to your festive wardrobe this season.
Photo: LS Archive/Sazzad Ibne Sayed