New ways to drape a saree

Women, wearing a saree is a cakewalk now. With ready-to-wear sarees easily available in the market, the whole nine-yard saga has become a rather quick affair.

With interesting draping techniques and quirky mix n match options, you can make a bold and stylish statement this season with your saree. Read on to know how you can be the cynosure of all eyes this festive scene...

Sexy soiree
For all those who gave up wearing the saree because it was too much of a hassle, not to mention having to deal with a blouse and petticoat as well, can breathe easy. Designer Nida Mahmood wants you to drape your saree over leggings or slim-fit denims, instead of a petticoat, and go for tees or spaghetti tops in place of a blouse. For fabrics she suggests silk, crepe and georgette, as these weigh less and make moving around much easier. More important, these fabrics have a nice fall and natural sheen. For embellishments Mahmood recommends embroidery or sequins on the saree border for Diwali. If the thought of burning a cracker while wearing a saree sends shivers down your spine, opt for one with an interesting digital print that's a rage right now and also gives a festive feel.

Go glam
For mothers who felt their young daughters had given up on this Indian must-have, designer Anand Kabra has a suggestion - look for ready-to-wear sarees. You can zip them up and the whole hassle of draping it is taken care of. For those who own regular sarees, Kabra suggests that they be worn like skirts, gowns, dhotis or just draped the way the Grecians did. Young girls should have fun with the saree. By draping it in innovative ways, they can make a saree suit their silhouette and get over the mindset that its an old woman's attire, he explains. For colours, Kabra bets on rich reds, as it conveys the celebration mood brilliantly. So follow these styling tips and get set to dazzle in your saree.

Embellish your hands with fake nails

Artificial or acrylic nails, as they are called, have been in the beauty industry for long but it's only now that they are being accepted by all. The best thing about them is that you can shape them the way you want - in any length or colour.



And if you have always wanted to embellish your nails with piercings, but did not have the nerve to get it done, then you can try piercing your artificial nails without touching your nails.



What are acrylic nails?
These are nail enhancements that come in various forms like press-on nails, nail-tips and sculpted nails. They were developed in the early '70s as pieces of plastic that were glued on the nails. With the advent of technology, more natural-looking nail enhancements have been developed which go well with the real nail.


But while these nail extensions beautify your hands, wearing them and then taking care of them needs a lot of attention. First and foremost, you need to clean your nails and push back the cuticle. Trim your nails but don't cut them too short, in case you have a snag with the fake nails - they might tear away a part of the real ones. Put some glue on your nails and drop the acrylic nails quickly.



If the nail does not fit properly, file it or soak your fingers in the nail solution provided and take it off. Repeat the process. Once you are done with that dab on some nail oil. This has to be done atleast once a day.



Remember not to put pressure on your extensions and avoid using washing powder or other chemicals while wearing acrylic nails.