BY RANI SHARMA

The festival season is the perfect time to talk about a startling new introduction to the fashion scene. High end, ombre dyed, shaded sarees with fine gota embroidery are set to become the next big thing in 2012. 

Ombré, also known as dip dyeing, color bleeding, or gradated dyeing, is an effect usually achieved by hand dipping fabric in dye so that it gradually goes from light to dark, or from one color to another.

Georgettes, chiffons and crepes are shaded in bright oranges, hot pinks, reds and purples. Each saree has two different colors that merge to form a third color. The border, which is richly embellished with Rajasthani gota patti work, is also suffused with a third contrast color like green or purple, so as to match with kundan jewelry that is inlaid with meenakari work. The back of the saree, where the border begins, is covered in expensive shimmer tissue. 

The blouse is of a different material, like a soft crepe, or raw silk. Long sleeves are in vogue during the winter months. A high beck back, with a large keyhole is in.

Jewelry: Mughal jewelry goes with the theme. Wear heavy pieces in kundan with meenakari work. Wear a tika or mata patti. Patlas and kundan bangles, and a big kundan ring.

Shoes: Wear embroidered shoes in matching colors.

Purse: Carry a potli with rich gota work.

Make-up: Bright make-up and updoes go well with the look. Don’t forget the bindi.

The completed look is reminiscent of Mughal art. The rich creations may be worn during festivals and at weddings.

For more info, call me at (404)386-2062 or visit www.raneez.com.