As the festive season swings into full bloom, wardrobes across India are lighting up with colours, shimmer, and sparkle. From pandal hopping during Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja to late-night garba practices for Navratri, it’s the time of year when fashion takes center stage. And this season, the art of mirror work is making its way back into the spotlight, and here’s how to make it work for your festive wardrobe.
Desi roots, global appeal
Known as Abhala Bharat or Shisha embroidery in Hindi and Gujarati traditions, mirror work is the art of attaching tiny reflective pieces onto fabric, creating a play of light and texture that instantly uplifts an outfit. What once began as a humble folk art has now become a global style statement. From Tory Burch’s mirror-studded maxi dresses shimmering on runways and red carpets, to luxury giants like Dior and J.Crew embracing the intricate detailing in their collections, mirror work is popping up on international runways as a standout.
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While international designers experiment with its versatility, Indian fashion continues to celebrate the craft as part of its cultural identity. Designer Arpita Mehta believes mirror work holds a timeless place in festive wardrobes. “I feel the best way to include mirror work garments in your wardrobe is by choosing neutral mirror work, something in beige gold, dull gold, or rose gold. Basically, metallic mirror work is almost like a classic to have in your wardrobe. For example, a gold mirror work jacket, or a rose gold mirror work blouse can be paired with any kind of sari, maybe your mom’s vintage Zari sari or your dadi’s Lucknowi sari. When it comes to preserving mirror work pieces, going with neutral tones is the best way forward. They’re versatile, timeless, and something you can wear across any festive season.”
Magic with mirrors
The fashion expert’s advice is especially relevant at a time when brides-to-be and fashion enthusiasts are looking for statement pieces that don’t just dazzle for one occasion but can be styled in multiple ways. A neutral mirror-work blouse, for instance, can outlive seasonal trends, making it a smart investment.
But as with most festive looks, balance is important and Mehta cautions against going overboard with colour and sparkle. Pointing out that too many competing elements can overwhelm the wearer, Mehta informs, “Adding too many colours can look confusing, you end up dividing attention between the clothes and the jewellery. The focus should always remain on the person, with everything working harmoniously together.”
Accessories, too, play an important role in completing the look. For bold jewel tones that dominate Indian bridal and festive fashion, the designer recommends a simpler, more elegant approach. She sums up, “When going for bold, jewel-toned colours in bridal or festive looks, I feel the jewellery should be in a singular tone. Avoid wearing Navratna or jewellery with multiple-coloured stones like emeralds, rubies, sapphires, or topaz. Since the outfit colour is already so strong, the jewellery needs to compliment it rather than compete with it. For jewel tones, I personally feel all-white polki or classic all-white diamonds look the most beautiful.”
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