Q&A

What is the equivalent of the LBD in Indian clothes?

ANNAMMA JOHN, CHENNAI

Annamma I would suppose it's the Little Black Sari - preferably with a little silver embroidery and in chiffon or crepe, something that clings a bit and can be worn with an assortment of cholis to take on a new avatar every time it's worn. New thinking says that black worn next to your face can cast aging shadows under your eyes and deepens every wrinkle, so keep the choli in jewel bright tones that add a dash of colour!

Who according to you is the most wearable Indian designer?

PUNITA SAMUEL, MUMBAI

Oops, tough question! I would vote for Rajesh Pratap Singh for his clean and uncluttered classics in monotones, Abraham & Thakore for their stylish Wear It Anywhere In The World attitude and Ritu Kumar who has made it her mission to bring fashion to the masses at affordable prices!

What styles of Indian jewellery will go best with western outfits?

PREETHA KUMAR, BANGALORE

I would think the simpler pieces should work well with western ensembles. Antique silver jewelry always goes well with most western outfits. Something very traditional and heavy could work with a strapless ball gown, and dangly chandelier earrings go with most anything.

Are trench coats in vogue? I am going to Paris on a holiday, is it a good idea to take one along?

SHASWATHI NAIR, BANGALORE

Trench coats are always in vogue and a very sensible idea to carry one in that damp and unpredictable climate. Burberry makes some sensational trenches that go with most day ensembles and make you look very smart and with-it. Wear it with a Hermes or Dior scarf showing at the neck and find the perfect beret to go with it for a look that?s utterly Parisienne.

What is the current must-have in fabrics for men?

RISHIKESH, MUMBAI

I would think linen is always a summer must-have. It looks great and is so comfortable to wear in the tropics that even formal business looks can feature a crisp linen suit in the paler shades of the spectrum like beige, ivory and sand. Worn with a white linen shirt and pale tie, the look can travel continents with suave style.

Should I use a fairness cream?

ASHOK AITYA, BANGALORE

Absolutely not! Not many Indians are aware that the dusky colour of their skin is envied around the world. Better to use a sun block and avoid going out in the sun too much so that your skin regains its natural colour, whatever it is. Beware of creams that turn your skin patchy and rough and don?t fall for those tall claims, for none of them really work. Using a spoonful of fresh malai (cream) mixed with a few drops of lime juice all over your face and under your eyes does a good job of taking off the tan.

India's Fashion guru Prasad Bidapa exports Bangalore style to world destinations and has created a distinctive niche in the Indian fashion scenario. His projects like the annual India Men's Fashion Fair and the Kingfisher Fashion Awards have put Bangalore on the International fashion map. He presents some of the largest fashion events in India and his training programme for models is legendary for having created some of the biggest names in fashion and films. His work as an Image and Fashion consultant has created a state-of-the-art approach to retail fashion and branding exercises.