Brand Edit: Zuba by Aneeth Arora for TataCLiQ
Zuba ~ Sophisticated Indian hand-woven fabrics crafted with artisanal elements for the glorious yet understated woman who is iconic herself. Summer is a great time to play around with light fabrics that will keep you comfortable throughout the day and Westside brings a fabulous collection of ethnic wear in inspired prints to add to your wardrobe this season. Bring in a touch of subtle elegance to your summer closet with this Off-White Floral Print Kurta by Zuba.
Indian fashion proudly boasts of global acuity along with a strong embrace of ethnic designs. Our style trends have ingeniously conformed with international fashion shows and at the same time, we’ve been able to innovate traditional wear to match the modernised fashion landscape. Our inclination towards western silhouettes can hardly shadow our rampant love for traditional couture that has a sacred space in our closets. We will boldly step out in a sassy dress and boots during the day and effortlessly slip into an elegant kurta in the evening.
There is versatility in kurtas and this versatility dictates the depths of acceptance of these wardrobe essentials across people of all ages. If you’ve been limiting your closet simply because you felt that kurtas were way too conventional for your modernistic style, then it is time for you to reconsider your style perspective.
Meant for all body shapes and sizes, kurtas always find a way to battle through the changing fashion environment, by coming back with newer designs, and in fabrics with traditional motifs ~ inspiring women in India to hold steady to their fashion roots. You can wear a kurta to formal events or you can pick casual designs for daily wear. And, if you are craving some attention at your workplace, then drop your usual office look and wear a beautiful kurta to make heads turn.
The Indian summer implores for practical clothing that allows you to stay cool and comfortable. This is exactly why I love wearing fabulously airy kurtas in the summers.
Interesting to note: The word “Kurta” comes from Persian descent and literally means, ‘a collarless shirt’. It evolved into the Indian Kurti which is indicative of the existence of fashion collaboration long before fashion may have found its way to the runway. Although the kurta has been a part of Indian ethnic attire, it was relegated to the rural regions of Northern India for the longest time.
Retail store chain Westside, a part of the Tata Group of Companies, partnered with designer Aneeth Arora in 2014 to curate ethnic wear under its own portfolio. Her designs deeply explore the opulence of handcrafted embroidery and her fabrics of choice are woven silk and handlooms. Westside markets these exquisite creations under their premium Indian wear collection called Zuba.
Arora’s inherent fashion sense was augmented by her education in the same field. She is a textile graduate from the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, and a fashion graduate from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). Her designs are marked by the use of organic fabrics that are breathable and comfortable yet create an undoubtedly bold statement.
This season, Zuba is dominated by refreshingly vibrant floral patterns. The appeal in the long kurta featured here, which comes in a summery pink and ivory colourway, lies in its soft and airy fabric and the exquisite detailing on the neck. Crafted to grace every silhouette beautifully, it features a split sleeve detail allowing arms to be covered or exposed. Elegant side splits add character to the garment making this a timeless piece.
Style Note: In classic elegance, the exquisitely designed off-white kurta by Zuba that I am wearing, makes a great addition to your everyday ethnic collection. Rendered in a fine blend of cotton and silk, this long-length separate features a streamlined silhouette with a V-neck. The sheer sleeves are in conjunction with the latest style trends, while the striking print lends a final touch of finesse.
The design of the kurta helps you create the illusion of length making you look taller and slimmer. Don’t limit yourself when it comes to pairing this delicate piece since it effortlessly combines with leggings, palazzo pants, and even a brightly coloured skirt for that Bohemian look. Your Punjabi jutti will complement the design of the kurta, but for those who love Kohlapuris, there is no reason to try anything else. If you prefer sandals, then with a pair of beautiful sandals and pretty jhumkas jauntily swinging from your ears, step out in this refreshing ethnic look.
To note: Cotton Silk is the choice for most Indians because it is airy, comfy, and weightless. If you are packing for a holiday to a hot or humid region then cotton silk/chanderi pieces can give you room to pack adequate clothes and also ensure that your holiday is sweat-free. This easy-to-wear relaxed style reflects the energy of the holiday season!
Style Options: Zuba kurtas offer immeasurable fashion choices in their fascinating range of colours and prints. They render a fresh perspective to age-old traditional clothing helping us explore the beauty of ethnic clothing in the most modern way. Pair with spectacular accessories to attend a formal event or wear as a cover-up at the beach or the poolside on a beautiful summer day. The light and airy design of the kurta will keep you relaxed and looking effortlessly chic.
Where does your style quotient hit the high mark when it comes to summer kurtas? How do you accessorise your kurtas for a chic look? Tag us on Instagram with an inspiring look and let the world wear your idea! Don’t forget a bright smile to cheer us up on a lovely summer day.