OFF WITH THE OLD ON WITH THE NEW

The quintessential red and white has been revamped and is all set to blow fashion sirens for Boishakh. Pohela Boishakh is no longer limited to a hearty breakfast and a morning spent at the 'Botomul' musical soiree. It has evolved into a melting pot of ideas that sees us through the day. And every moment deserves the utmost attention to detail - colour, hair, styling et al. From what we wear, to the food that we serve in our elaborate meals, Pohela Boishakh is an expression of the flamboyance in our culture that needs to be reconnected with. Boishakh is steeped in tradition; it's all about summer splendour; a euphoria that transcends all; no bar to age, cast or creed. 

It is of little wonder that the day starts much earlier than dawn for the fashonista. And they are spoilt for choice. The ethereal red and the sombre white, mixed and matched pose endless possibilities. Yet there are some who dare to go beyond tradition, while there are others who prefer to simply 'tweak'. 

And men need not hold back in this fashion extravaganza. Out comes the sharp cut panjabi, a minimalist, white pyjama and an exciting 'uttorio'- a combo that makes a blatant statement - less, for the Bengali men, is more.  Those who prefer to give comfort the utmost preference are not on the losing end as the Bengali protagonist has endless options. Extrapolate, play with colours, seek comfort and make a mark. Make a Boishakhi resolution and live by it.

The Star Lifestyle Boishakh Special edition tries to bring the best from all aspects of the Bengali New Year celebration and bring it all under one heading. We would like to acknowledge the efforts of our photographer Sazzad Ibne Sayed and stylist Azra Mahmood. The authorities of Beauty Boarding and Lal Kuthir, Northbrook Hall deserve kudos for their wholehearted cooperation in the shoot. 
Thanks to Farzana Shakil for the splendid hair styling and makeup. This grand issue would not have been possible without her support. 
We express our gratitude to all the fashion houses that have contributed with their attires. We thank Aranya, Kumudini, Tangail Saree Kutir, Mayasir, Chondon, Dressy Dale, Bibiana, Jatra and Deshal. Special thanks to Kolors of Kathmandu(www.facebook.com/
KolorsOfKathmandu) for providing the jewellery, as well as helping us through the gruelling task of conducting the photoshoot.
Last but not the least, the models – Riba, Mashiat, Raaz and Hridi.

To our dearest readers we wish a prosperous New Year. Shubho Noborborsho.  

-LS Desk

ETHNIC INGENUITY
In order to start things on the right foot plans must be made ahead of time. 
It is a grand Bengali tradition to welcome New Year in shiny new threads; one that is well exercised by enthusiastic Dhakaiites! Getting a generic Boishakhi outfit that is dull and unoriginal simply defeats the purpose. This is the time of the year that requires an outfit that is low on glitz or glam, but ethnic with a touch of ingenuity. A modern fashionista who is indulging her passion for ethnic weaves would like to do exactly that, given that the fabrics in question are easy, fluid and comfortable. Thick, heavy handloom weaves of yore won't cut it; simple, lightweight materials such as muslin, andi silk, taant and linen are ideal for the occasion. Jamdani, the heritage fabric of Bengal is also a great option. 

COLOUR ME BOISHAKH
The colour palette is pretty much set for Pohela Boishakh which makes things a lot easier. However, too much of red and white can be nauseating and unimaginative. Red, when contrasted with other neutral shades such as beige, light brown and cream looks beautiful and makes a statement. Alternatively, red can be paired with other interesting colours such as sienna, burnt orange and brown too. White, on the other hand, can be pretty much paired with any colour imaginable. It looks especially good with festive shades such as yellow and orange, among many others. 

BLOUSE BONANZA
In terms of silhouette, a timeless sari is always a fabulous option for Pohela Boishakh, and the amount of creativity that can be displayed on six yards of fabric is boundless. This year, pairing the sari with a blouse featuring interesting details can really take things to the next level. An embroidered neckline embellished with conch shells or beads will add pizzazz to your outfit, as will balloon or puff sleeves. Whether you go short or long, it is bound to make a statement. 

OPTIONS APLENTY
For those who want to give the sari a miss, kurtas will lend an ethnic vibe while keeping you breezy and comfy. Asymmetrical, bias-cut kurtas in fun, juicy colours such as red and orange will brighten up your look and mood. Simple screen print and light embroidery will add just the right amount of embellishment to your outfit. Palazzo pants and churidaars look equally stylish, and are yours for the taking. With the right accessories and a happy disposition, any of these outfits will surely help you stand out in the crowd!

MEN OF THE MOMENT
For men this Boishakh, panjabis or kurtas in lightweight, breathable, organic materials are a great option. A crisp, white cotton panjabi always looks elegant, but this year give colours a shot. Light yellow, khaki and brown are perennial favourites, but a subdued shade of red wouldn't look too bad either. Simple patterns embroidered along the neckline and sleeve ends add the right finishing touch. The length of it a matter left entirely to one's own discretion. Alternately, a fotua in an organic fabric is also great if you want to give the panjabi a miss. 
Whatever you choose, be sure to give your usual shirts and Polos some much needed respite! So there you have it, all the valuable direction for Pohela Boishakh fashion. May your year be filled with peace, happiness and boundless sartorial success!