Friday, 19 March 2010 06:33

How do you know that the Anarkali is good for you or the trendy tight churidaars should be your choice?
Here's your guide to picking the right salwar kameez to camouflage your flaws and highlight your best features:
For those with a big bosom
If you don't believe in the got-it-flaunt-it diktat, then you'll have to camouflage your bosom with darker colours for the kurta and lighter hues for the bottoms.
Mumbai-based designer Swapnil Shinde advises to keep the neckline interesting with embellishments. Opt for wrap kurtas and v-necklines slim-down an ample bosom. Shinde also says, "Stay away from extremely fitted kurtas, tight churis and the empire cuts. The length of your kurta should be a little above the knee or just knee-length and you can team these with patialas."
For those with plumpy proportions
You are on the heavier side and believe that the anarkali is your answer to the battle of the bulge.
However, Mumbai-based stylist Vinita Makhija opines, "No anarkali for the women with generous proportions since contrary to popular belief it will not hide the bulge. Remember, anarkali is not an empire cut. You should stick to straight cuts and above-the-knee kurtas teamed with chudidars or straight pants to keep the slim look." Allow darker shades and vertical stripes to work their magic to make you look slimmer.
Swapnil explains, "Don't cover yourself with the dupatta as if you are trying to hide your body. Let it hang on one side for a linear look and you can hold the other end wrapped around your hand."
For those who complain of being skinny
If you are really skinny you can experiment with different silhouettes and the anarkali is just right for you.
Makhija explains, "Have fun with different necks and straps. If you have lanky legs, patiala teamed with really short kurtis, a la Kareena in Jab We Met, will give you the curves. If you have a small bust, pick heavy dupattas to add natural volume."
For those who want to slim down the midriff
Most women complain of a flabby tummy and are forever in search of cuts that hide the unwanted bulge.
Swapnil advises to choose empire cuts, bias kurtas and avoid anything that clings to your midriff. You can also opt for any kind of bottoms and the not-so-voluminous anarkali. Kurtas with pleats in the centre also camouflage the unwanted bulge.
For those with big hips
So, you have a luscious bottom and you want to tone it down. Think soft, flowy fabrics that don't cling to your body and offer a feminine silhouette.
Shinde suggests, "Avoid anything that looks puffy. Don't wear puffy or balloon sleeves instead get a nice off-shoulder kurta. Your salwar should not be a patiala or voluminous. Wear churidaars, pants or leggings and go for knee-length or below the knee kurtas."
A-line kurtas will trim broad hips and you can also have interesting detailing around the hem.
For those with broad shoulders
Choose a kurta that's a shade darker than your salwar. Avoid boat necks, really thin spaghetti straps and puff sleeves because they will make your shoulders appear broader. Instead opt for designs and embellishments around the neck area and thick straps for your shoulders.
The neck should have a interesting cut and carry a dupatta with narrow pleats so that it gives the illusion of a leaner upper body.
And lastly, it's important to maintain a good posture so that you look and feel good, and ready to take on the world!