Stylish and sustainable: Why mixing-and-matching is key to a versatile, budget-friendly wardrobe

The festive season is the perfect time to let your creativity shine and style new looks for every event (Image: Canva)

Mixing-and-matching in fashion is essential for creating a versatile wardrobe. It allows you to combine different pieces, like tops, bottoms, and accessories, to create unique outfits without constantly buying new clothes. This approach also encourages creativity and personal expression. Lastly, it allows you to express your individuality while maintaining a practical and efficient closet.

The festive season is the perfect time to let your creativity shine and style new looks for every event, says Devangi Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions. “A well-curated selection of key versatile pieces can help you mix-and-match your way through every celebration,” says Parekh.

Follow these tried-and-tested tips, suggested by Parekh, to curate a festive wardrobe that works for you:

• Stylish shirts: Invest in a few stylish shirts in neutral colours like white, off-white, black, and beige. These can easily pair with lehenga skirts, draped skirts, and sarees to create a fashionable indo-western look. Fabrics like silk, satin, and organza look rich and complement ethnic wear beautifully. The best part is that these shirts can be worn year-round as western wear, maximising their use.

• Jackets and capes: Pair your kurta, draped dress, or pant set with a tailored jacket or cape to instantly elevate your look. A simple kurta or long dress can transform into an evening outfit with an embellished jacket. This combination is perfect for festive dinners and family gatherings. To create visual interest, choose a jacket with unique surface ornamentation such as appliqué or mirror work.

• Play with drapes: The beauty of a saree and dupatta lies in the way you drape them. Experiment with different draping styles to create unique looks. Try the Bengali drape for a traditional touch or the modern 'pant saree' style with a belt for a chic, contemporary vibe. Pinning your dupatta in a butterfly drape, like a cape, or in a half-saree style can add dimension, making your outfit pop and creating fresh looks each time.

• Experiment with bottoms: Swap out traditional lehenga skirts or churidars for dhoti pants, bell-bottoms, or sharara pants. Pair a heavily embroidered kurta with plain palazzos for balance, or wear a light, flowy kurta with trendy dhoti pants. This not only adds a modern touch but also ensures comfort throughout your celebrations. You can also style heavy sharara pants with a shirt or crop top.

• Prints, patterns, and textures: Mixing prints, patterns, and textures can be a fun way to express your style. Pair a floral-printed lehenga with a geometric print crop top or a ruffle blouse; combine a printed pant set with an embroidered cape; or wear a printed skirt set with an embellished bomber jacket. Just ensure the colors complement each other to maintain harmony in your outfit. This playful approach can make your festive look unique and eye-catching.

• Statement jewellery: Jewellery can completely change the vibe of your outfit. For a simple kurta or saree, layer on statement pieces such as a tribal necklace or oversized sculptural earrings. A basic outfit can be transformed with a bold cuff bracelet or an eye-catching maangtikka.

• Eye-candy bag: A statement bag can instantly uplift even the most basic look and draw the attention of the entire room. If you plan to keep your outfit and jewellery light, make sure your bag is the eye candy that steals the show.