The Tossed Salad

New Year’s Eve – the very mention of the word sends shivers down my spine. The holiday brings with it a mind-numbing pressure. First, there is the eager questioning all around – “So, what are you doing for New Year’s?” I, when questioned, just mumble “No plans yet.” There, the humiliation begins. And it just keeps getting worse.

If you are fortunate (or unfortunate) enough to be invited for a party on the 31st, the inevitable (and torturous) question arises – “What do I wear?” The other day, I heard a friend of mine mutter, “I wish New Years was in May.” And hell! I sympathize. Those mini-skirts and strapless, sleeveless, backless outfits may look great, but they offer very little (practically nothing) protection and warmth. While we girls look fabulous in our party avatars, the reason why we are so enthusiastic to dance on a new year’s eve, is simple – we dance to keep off the cold. The minute we leave the dance floor there is only one thought in our heads – “I wish I was wrapped up in a warm blanket sipping a cup of hot chocolate.” As a solution to the dilemma, I shall now offer a brand new, never-heard-before concept.

Ladies and gentlemen, I present – the “comfortable fashion”! I know you must be rolling your eyes, but trust me – this one is for real! Here is a basic guide on how to make fashion comfortable this party season:

-Shrugs are a great way to cover up AND be fashionable at the same time. A purple or wine-colored shrug paired with the quintessential little black dress is a sure-shot way to look good and feel warm(er).

- Stockings and leggings are the perfect way to show off your legs without getting a frostbite. Try sheer stockings or   opaque leggings to make your whole look dressier.

- If you don’t have the perfect figure (who does, anyway?) avoid wearing body-hugging outfits. Instead wear looser tunics and dresses with a belt or accessories, to spice it up.

- Try wearing attractive sweater-tunics with sequins to be comfortable and fashionable at the same time. In fact sequins are THE embellishment this season. Make sure you don’t over-do it though; you don’t want to be mistaken for a disco ball.

- Guys have it easy (as usual!). Jackets, coats and blazers (for a formal look) are both fashionable and warm. A scarf adds that extra stylish touch to the outfit.

So, this New Years there is no need to freeze to death. With a little bit of creativity you can put together the perfect outfit that is chic, looks good, and most importantly keeps you warm!

Mohini Bishnoi

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[image courtesy: http://tinyurl.com/9fgavf]

Author: Ashwin Mehendale
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