Navratri is the time to go traditional yet look stylish in all ways. From opting for the fragrant gajra to getting creative with braids, here’s how you can enhance your lehenga-choli look this season
The braided bun This up-do adds that much-needed playfulness to the delicate lehenga, choli and dupatta. It’s quite popular as it shows off great facial features and works especially well for those with straight hair. It is an easy style and takes five minutes. Start by teasing your hair at the crown to add volume, then part your hair on the side and braid it tightly. Wrap the braid around and pin it into a bun with several bobby pins. Finish with hairspray to avoid flyaways.
Say it with flowers Flowers can make a good hairstyle look so feminine, but ensure that you choose flowers which flatter your skin tone. It’s also important not to go for anything too bright or harsh, as it’s important to look formal for traditional occasions. “A large flower at the nape of the neck with an up-do or a small chain of flowers going through some voluminous waves. If your hair is thick then make sure to set the flowers with some kirby grips so the accessories don’t fall out,” says hairstylist Asgar Saboo.
The head wrap chain If you’re opting for a tribal chic avatar this Navratri and want to add an exotic vibe to your look, wear a head wrap chain. The style options are endless, ranging from the styles with big stones and crystal to the delicate ones with small chains and bells. If you have smaller facial features, opt for subtle head chain, whilst those with bigger features can go for a more extravagant look. You can wear the chain with your hair tied up in a bun, but this accessory looks best when the hair is left flowing. Also make sure that the hair is parted in the middle, since symmetry is important for this accessory to look glam and exotic.
The classic chignon As elegant and sophisticated as ever, the chignon suits most stylish women and brings chic to Navratri festivities. This hairstyle looks impressive but is actually simple to do. To begin with, apply some serum and smooth over dry ends. Gather your hair to one side and twist into a lose knot just below the ear and finally pin it in place. Be careful of short layers; tuck them into your hair to avoid a scruffy or laid back look. With this look, neatness is a must.
The big blowout If you prefer to go contemporary and not completely Indian when it comes to styling, this one’s apt for you. This is a classic style that gives you a luxurious look. Start by dividing your hair into sections and applying a heat protecting spray or serum, as you want the hair to feel silky and soft. Always blow dry your roots first, which is essential for adding as much volume as possible. “Consider your haircut to decide what type of blow out you want. If your hair is all one length, a sleek blow dry might suit you better, and if you have a cut with lots of layers, consider having a few bounces and curls towards the end to show them off,” says Saboo. Always work in small sections, preferably two-inch sections to get the salon-like blow out. Make sure that the nozzle is pointed downwards and that it isn’t too close to your hair, to avoid flyaway strands or a frizzy look.
