2023: Lace and tulle in fashion

Alas, we are here. Seems like we have time travelled to the future. The first month has sped past us at the speed of light as we fail to keep up, dazed and confused in the sparkling haze that is the festive season in Dhaka! Twinkling wedding lights adorn streets all around, invitation cards jostle for space on our coffee tables and there is endless discussion about the all-important winter wardrobe that will have us ready for this wonderful whirlwind!

In that regard winter fashion this year is all about feminine, sophisticated styles with a hefty dose of high-octane glamour. It's a wondrous time of the year; there is a palpable sense of excitement in the air, redolent with endless possibilities of festivity and fervour. This spirit is channelled marvellously by the fashionistas of Dhaka who leave no stone unturned when it comes to dressing up at their absolute best!

Giving heavy velvets and brocades a miss, this year's trends are veering towards softer, delicate fabrics that highlight the feminine silhouette in all its glory. Amidst the flurry of trends that turn up on the runways every season, lace seems to have made a comeback. There's something about the wispy nature of it that is just so beautiful; its delicate weaves adorn a woman's form most exquisitely.

Versatility is the greatest virtue of lace; from gowns to dresses to saris and lehengas — literally, any article of clothing is brought to life when fashioned from lace. Whichever form it is rendered in, be it Guipure, Chantilly, or Macramé — lace is beautiful in every avatar.

If lace were to have a sister it'd be tulle! Its 'now-you-see-it-now-you-don't' nature makes it the perfect foil for luscious embroideries that make the outfit look like a second skin on the wearer. Again, the possibilities are endless with this gauzy, wispy fabric. Choose a mint green Chantilly sari paired with an embellished blouse for your friend's engagement ceremony, and a berry tulle lehenga for her destination wedding.

A black mini-Guipure number will be fabulously chic for your cousin's swanky cocktail and a blush pink tulle gown will make you the belle of the ball for your friend's reception! Tulle is also perfect for ghagra; add a layered cancan skirt underneath a navy tulle ghagra and pair it with a stunning wraparound blouse in satin. Throw some diamonds on and voila!

Lastly, if you are the one to play it safe, a Chantilly lace sari is always a winner in every scenario. Choose an unusual shade such as bronze, purple, or olive, and wear it with an interesting blouse to let your light shine through!