Spruce up your wardrobe!

I think it has finally been deeply ingrained in all our brains that, to have a functional wardrobe you need to have your basics covered. The basic skinny jeans, a white shirt, a pair of classic black pumps and etc. etc. A lot of blog posts and articles have covered this topic so thoroughly that I don’t think there is anything else left to add. But I do have something to say about how to spruce up your closet by adding a few funky pieces. There is no ‘set list’ of statement pieces to have because, well, they are statement pieces! Each unique to it’s own self – be it an accessory or clothes or shoes. There are no rules except to go wild, to go for the unexpected, to experiment and to simply have fun by including one-of-a-kind pieces that take your basics to the next level! Over the years I’ve collected a few of such pieces that never fail to make a statement. This list is a compilation of my personal favorites from my wardrobe. Hopefully it inspires you to buy something the next time you spot a piece that makes you do a double take!

Laptop sleeve that doubles as a statement clutch:
This laptop sleeve has always been a conversation starter. Whether I use it to carry my laptop to client meetings or as an over sized clutch to accessorize an outfit, I’ve always been asked where I’ve purchased it. Personally I love it because it has been customized to include my blog’s name and a piece of art that I really love!

Body chain:
Body chains are a great way of accessorizing an outfit. With the innumerable number of designs available, its almost impossible to narrow down on which one you want. Start with something a little simple. One that can be worn over western wear as well as traditional outfits. One of my favorite ways of pairing it is with a saree. Yes! Just like you wear fancy waist belts (or vaddanams) on sarees, a body chain can also be worn for a really different look. You can then go for shoulder chains too which would look great when paired with a plain saree.

Green harem pants:
In the past few years I have seen about ten different varieties of harem pants but have not liked a single pair except this one. I don’t think I get the concept of a harem pant. Where would you wear it? Personally the drop crotch version is something that I strongly dislike and I don’t think it look flattering on anyone. The only pair that I find comfortable and have worn to death is this bright green pair. Whether its paired with a kurti or a tshirt it never fails to live up to its promise of comfort and style!

Hand made shell necklace:
This particular piece was a special buy, a hand made necklace by an artisan in the tiny town of Mahabhalipuram. The shells, the little mirror and the bright colors instantly made me buy it. Its not a ‘statement necklace’ but it still is a unique piece, one that you don’t get to see often. And definitely not in any high end accessory stores. Hand crafted items have their own personality, their own story. Whether they have a sentimental value of your first trip away from home, or memories of an early morning trip to a far off beach – they are definitely for keeps!

Inkkas shoes:
Okay so by now you must be knowing that I have a thing for anything hand-made and eclectic. When I was first sent this pair of Inkkas shoes, I was blown over. Made from local materials found in a city called Cusco in Peru, Inkkas’s philosophy has always been philanthropy and authenticity. Inkkas is a team of dreamers and their story of how they founded this company is something everyone needs to watch