Getting Folksy

Hoorah! It's folk festival season this month. The Surajkund Crafts Mela kick starts this week in Delhi and the Khala Ghoda Arts Festival in Mumbai. These festivals attract a host of artisans and artists from all over India to display some of the finest ethnic arts and crafts. And it's not necessary to go to these festivals just to shop for trinkets or house décor. There are so many fabrics and textures to get inspired by. And if you cannot make it this year, don't worry we've got you covered.

Traditional handloom materials can be worn in a variety of ways. And probably the Kurti-dhoti combo looks best of 'em all. The chilly red handloom print teamed with cast iron jewelry definitely gets our thumbs up! To try a more contemporary look, team a dhoti with a tank top or cowl blouse. The 70's inspired churidar with a crushed black kurta will not go wrong either.

If you want to try the fusion look, there's loads to experiment with. Try a bandini blouse with formal tapered pants. Work's well for the office and formal events as well. To carry off the same look for a casual occasion try a Capri instead. Flowing block printed skirts are great for the bohemian look. Team it with a jacket and you can change its purpose altogether.

These festivals attract shoe-o-holics for a variety of reasons. From colourful Mojris, embellished Kolhapuris to jute sandals, there's so much to indulge in. But it's not a rule to wear traditional shoes with traditional prints. In fact, it's best to mix and match. So team a pair of mojris with your faded jeans and stilettos with a dhoti. Need to know more or want to let us know your thoughts? Post a comment below or write to us.