Shilpa Shetty is typically all about the sari, which is always precisely pleated, frequently belted, and generally made of georgette. She’s gone for something unexpected this time, though.
Payal Pratap’s cowl pants and white jacket, both made of malkha cotton, complete the ensemble. Echoing traditional kedia work, the jacket features a band collar and is hand-embroidered with sequins and multicolored flower patchworks. The peplum hem of the coat adds complexity to the silhouette and creates movement with its slightly flared pleated side panels that drop further on each side. The pants have tapered ankles, wide, rounded legs, and simple pleats, making them airy and dhoti-like. Her vintage, striped Carrano pumps, which are just sharp enough to keep everything grounded, complete the look.
This is a persistent pattern. Recently, embroidered jackets have appeared in many collections: Falguni Shane Peacock stitched them at FDCI; Shantnu & Nikhil’s androgynous, almost military style; and Anamika Khanna’s juxtaposition of breezy saris with boxy blazers creates sculptures. It makes sense because they can carry a look on their own, work at many events, and don’t need bulky jewelry or dupattas.
Her oxidized multi-stoned jhumka with its attached ear cuff was displayed by her sleek side-parted hairstyle. Her left hand’s big diamond-studded ring gave an unsubtle brilliance. Her makeup was straightforward: accentuated cheekbones, a nude lip, bronzed eyes, and a crisp liner flick.
