Glamorous yet elegant accessories like scarves and hats have never been a Pakistani woman’s best friend. We only consider things that dangle or have major bling (like necklaces, rings and earrings) to be real accessories.
Even if we wanted to wear hats and scarves, they wouldn’t look good on our typical shalwar kameezes. But that’s when the western-fusion kurta comes to the rescue. Pair the kurta with some jeans, add the right amount of oomph and you can rock pretty much any scarf or hat you like. And since none of the retailers are offering dupattas these days, these scarves can work as a great alternative.
Infinity loop scarves
If your scarf always looks messy and comes undone, you may just fall in love with the infinity loop scarf. It’s woven together in a loop so it doesn’t slip off and always look very fashionable. It’s also a great alternative to a dupatta as it covers all the right areas and keeps your neck warm.
Neck scarves
If you use a short, brightly coloured scarf and tie it closely around your neck, it instantly gives you a classy look for an evening out. Not only does it make your neck look longer, it completes an outfit without having to invest in earrings or necklaces.
Long shawl wraps
It might be winter and you might be shivering all the time, but nothing justifies wearing your long, big shawl like a chowkidaar on night duty. Pin it on the sides, or take two different shawls together to create this effortlessly elegant look.
Knotted scarves
While this is a scarf knotting technique European men are famous for, women can’t help but steal it. While Western women may like to keep the knot close to the neck to avoid the harsh wind, us Pakistani women who don’t have to battle extreme weather can keep the scarf a little looser and choose one that’s a bit longer. All you have to do is fold the scarf lengthwise, put this shorter scarf around your neck and then put the end with the tassles through the loop on the other side. Tighten or loosen it according to your look.
For the adventurous Beanies
A ‘beanie’ also called a ‘toque’, is the most common winter hat worn by women. It comes with the most designs, materials and colour variations and keeps your head warm without making you look like a snowman. Now if the hat can look good with a long coat, why shouldn’t it look good with a nice slim fitting kurta?
Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, January 13th, 2013.
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