Cocktail Party: Dress To Impress With This Bollywood-Inspired Style Guide
Stepping out in cocktail attire inspired by Bollywood's endless reservoir of glam is like slipping into one of its iconic, larger-than-life characters. Each has its own storyline and dramatic flair. So, as we dive into this sartorial saga, let’s blend the contemporary with the classic, creating looks that ooze élan, all while holding a drink that perfectly complements the fit.
The Saree Soirée
A sleek satin saree in midnight blue, its sheen catching the dim light of a cocktail party, making you the centre of all eyes. Bollywood has long embraced the saree for its graceful versatility, and in a cocktail setting, the satin version elevates this traditional attire to a modern runway moment. Drape it in a way that adds a contemporary twist, maybe with a belt or an edgy blouse.
Complement this ensemble with a drink that’s as smooth as the fabric of your saree—the Classic Singleton Sour. Just mix 50 ml of Singleton 12 with fresh lemon juice and 15 ml of sugar syrup, shaking it over ice, and straining into a chilled glass. It's a cocktail that mirrors the saree’s blend of timeless grace.
The Bandhgala Moment
Imagine a sharp bandhgala jacket, perhaps in a deep burgundy, inspired by Bollywood celebs making their rounds at polo clubs or upscale soirées. It’s tailored to perfection, exuding a kind of regal charm that’s hard to miss. Pair it with a crisp, open-collar shirt underneath and slim-fit trousers for that blend of formal and casual—a look that is transgressive yet refined.
This calls for a drink with a bit of complexity and a lot of characters, such as the Johnnie Walker Black Label Old Fashioned. Stir 50 ml of Johnnie Walker Black Label with a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a twist of orange peel, served over ice. It's classic, sophisticated, and undeniably stylish, much like the bandhgala itself.
The Ghaghra-blazer Fusion
Imagine combining the flared beauty of a traditional ghaghra skirt with the structured sharpness of a blazer—a fusion that’s equal parts daring and dazzling. This look plays with volumes and textures, creating a silhouette that’s both powerful and playful. Opt for a ghaghra in a rich, vibrant hue and pair it with a fitted, metallic blazer that catches the light as you move.
To match this bold ensemble, you need a cocktail that’s equally vibrant—the Tanqueray Ten Citrus Burst. Combine 50 ml of Tanqueray No. Ten with 15 ml of fresh lemon juice, 10 ml of orange liqueur and a splash of tonic water, garnished with a lemon twist. It's refreshing, zesty and full of life, echoing the ghaghra-blazer combo’s energetic vibe.
The Sequinned Sherwani Statement
For those wanting to truly make an entrance, a sequinned sherwani or jacket is your ticket. Drawing inspiration from Bollywood’s penchant for drama and sparkle, this attire combines traditional elegance with a bold, contemporary twist. Whether it's a full sherwani or a jacket thrown over a kurta and trousers, the sequins add a layer of festivity and fun, perfect for cocktail attire with a twist.
Such a statement piece demands a cocktail that’s bold and unforgettable—like the Royal Challenge Bold Fashioned. Muddle a sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water, then add 50 ml of Royal Challenge, stirring until well-blended. Serve over ice with a twist of orange; it’s a robust tipple, a fitting companion to your sherwani.
