Bollywood has seen many style icons reign the fashion scene. From Sonam Kapoor setting the trend for tweed jackets and luxe structured bags in Aisha to Deepika Padukone winning over our hearts with her chic tops and messy hair in Cocktail, we just can’t get enough. But if there’s a Bollywood star whom we cannot keep our eyes off, it’s Alia Bhatt.
Her fashion sense is simple, unfazed by unruly trends that die down in a day. From soft cotton tops to bold blazers, Alia’s fashion choices are uncomplicated and effortless. Chikankari suits in Kalank, loose t-shirts and ripped denim shorts in Kapoor and Sons, plaited hair and block heels in 2 States, and flouncy dresses and towering heels in Student of the Year; Alia has owned all her looks like no one before. So, when we want to take some fashion inspiration for our office wear, why go elsewhere?
From smart casual to business casual, casual wear to business formal, if you’re looking to revamp your office style, here are some quick tips to take from the queen.
Women’s workwear revisited: Bollywood edition
1. Minimalism is key
If you’re all about following the dress code at work without dipping on the fashion quotient, go minimal. Who said ladies’ formal office wear has to be as boring as the men’s? When opting for a smart casual look, you can go for classic options like a structured jacket or blazer. Accessorise, but keep it to the point. If you’re not a fan of staple shirts and collared blouses, go for a risqué lace top or a modest bralette.
Since you don’t want your makeup taking away the attention from your boss lady outfit, keep it basic. A no-makeup makeup look with soft brown eyes and nude lips can never go wrong.
2. The Indian intention
Getting into the festive feels but anticipating an important presentation with a client? Add a splash of business to your smart casuals. Alia’s plain shirt with printed palazzo pants is a complete hit. Layer it up with a pastel cape or statement shrug and you’re good to go. Adding an oxidised necklace, basic temple earrings or just a cute cocktail ring from the neighbourhood market will jazz up your look.
The important thing with a look like this is to keep the flair under control – if you’re going big on the jewellery, pull back the hair in a bun or ponytail. Wedge heels in Kohlapuri style or classic strappy sandals – take your pick.
3. Court ‘em with co-ords
Ditch the business formal look for some fun colour co-ord sets this season. Co-ord sets can be worn in a range of ways – you can go for a blazer with pants, a blouse with shorts, a buttoned shirt with capri pants, or just a classic shirt with flared pants.
Tie and dye looks are making a comeback this season. From kaftans and sarees to t-shirts and dhotis, the summer print is all over the market. But if you’re opting for a look like Alia’s, make sure you go easy on the jewellery if your outfit has too many colours. Some soft beach waves or a low ponytail will help you tie up the look together.
4. Dear dress
Looking for the right day to ditch the formal dress code and wear that new office dress you got? Every day is dress-up day when you know how to do it right. Alia’s dressy looks are great if you’re looking for something sophisticated and fun for your office. When picking out the dress to wear to work, make sure it has a comfortable neckline and length.
You can opt for something with prints like Alia’s striped dress. You can match it up with diamond studs or a shiny watch. Opt for ballerinas or short heels because while we’re all for style, comfort should not take a backseat.
5. The saree soiree
If there’s one piece of garment no one could go wrong with, it has to be the saree. Whether you’re searching for a modern office wear saree, or something a little more traditional like a cotton saree, we’d suggest you take your lessons from Gangubai. Alia floored the country with her white saree looks, each one better than the other.
You can opt for a monochrome look like Alia – she wore a white saree with a black blouse stitched in the choli style with a contemporary twist. If you’re keeping the palla loose, it’ll be smart to put your hair in a sleek plait or a side bun. Make your office saree look picture perfect with some oxidised jewellery – earrings and watch, or just a simple bracelet and you’re set.
6. Bold is better
Tired of basic blues and boring blacks at the office? Make a bold switch from the regular business formals with some abstract prints and dramatic colours. Alia has us in awe of her with this striking pantsuit look, and it is waiting to be imitated. Just pick a floral jacket and pair it up with some solid pants for a pop of colour.
If you’re apprehensive about making a glaring statement, you can tone down the drama with straight pants instead of flared ones, or go easy with the prints on your blazer. If your day involves a lot of travel and running around, we’d suggest you don’t pick the peep-toe heels. A more convenient option would be boots with block heels or some strappy slip-ons.
Alia Bhatt has been ruling the internet with her refreshing charm and relatable fashion game. She has developed a personal style that is synonymous with her personality but not at all monotonous.
If you’re new at your job, or are just thinking of upping your fashion game, we have just one suggestion: don’t be scared to be you!
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