Ethereal EID

When you think of the colour white (or lack thereof, pun intended!), what comes to your mind? For most people, a sense of tranquility is experienced; a serene, peaceful vista is conjured.  A room decorated entirely in white is a dream setting for many, and white linen curtains keep the heat at bay during sleepy summer afternoons. 

This peaceful hue has many versatile avatars, and takes on a life of its own when adorned on a fashionista's person. It surrounds its wearer in a soft, hazy mist of understated glamour, an unmistakable aura of luminosity.

White chiffon is the stuff dreams are made of, and white linen is a lifesaver in summer.  The festive season is in the middle of the legendary Bangladeshi summer this year, which makes Eid dressing nothing short of a predicament! However, if white is your colour of choice, it will be a breeze!

There are few things as beautiful as a sari-clad Bengali belle, who likes her sequins and crystals for Eid. But the elegance of a pure white Jamdani is unrivalled. An exquisite respite from the heavily embellished georgettes and crepes in blinding neon colours, Jamdani, Muslin and endi silk saris in white look resplendent and one of a kind.

The many shades of white, namely ivory, cream, pearl, snow and more only make this option exciting! A sprinkling of gold/silver zari, pearls, light embroidery and other understated embellishments let the colour do the talking.

White outfits do not just keep their wearers cool, but also spread freshness and serenity among their beholders too. In terms of shalwar kameezes white truly stands out. Ditching the synthetic imported fabrics, this Eid take a look at organic, earthy, handloom fabrics that will be easy on the eyes as well as the mind, body and soul.

Whether you prefer long or short hemlines, an interesting detail that will bring the outfit together is crucial. It could be an embroidered swatch, some light pearl or crystal work, or an intricate brooch. The main mantra this year is to keep things simple but exquisite and elegant.

Accessories are the one area you could go all out with, as the outfits are relatively pared down. A pair of oversized Chand Baali earings will bring movie-star like sparkle to your all white ensemble, as will layers and layers of pearls.  White saris will look exquisite with diamond jewellery, needless to say!

Statement chandelier earrings with crystals will bring a simple outfit to life, as will a wide cuff or cocktail ring. Keep your makeup focused on one aspect - a bold lip or a dramatic eye.

This year, shrug off the herd mentality. Shun the bright, bold colours that will definitely be an eyesore in this sweltering heat and humidity. Instead, pick an outfit in a pristine shade of white, and let your inner radiance shine through! 

By Sabrina N Bhuiyan
Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
Model: Raj, Riba, Bubli
Wardrobe: LS Desk, Sadakalo, O2, Doyel Silk, Tangail Saree Kutir
Jewellery: Gitanjali Lifestyle
Make-Up: Farzana Shakil
Styling: Azra Mahmood