When Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie stepped out in matching tuxedos on the BAFTA red carpet, they presented the ultimate power couple image. It isn’t just Brand and Age though; celebrity couples often sport coordinated outfits that show just how “in sync” they are. Closer home, the once-much-in-love Hrithik and Sussanne Roshan and telly couple Gaurav Chopra and Sumona Chakravarti have also coordinated their outfits at events.
“A lot of couples tend to dress alike without realising it,” says designer Junelia Aguiar Chandler (who is married to comedian Ash Chandler). “It happens organically, when they are in the same mood or zone. When it happens organically, it’s an endearing sight. But if you’re opting for the look deliberately, then some thought needs to be put into it, else it kills the charm,” she says.
The experts we spoke to asserted that when emulating these celebrity couples, the thing to avoid is looking like a clone. “Your outfits shouldn’t be exactly identical — replicating an entire look, in the same colour makes for an eyesore,” says Rajat Tangri, who’s showcasing a line at the upcoming Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai.
Rajat recommends that men match their look with their ladies in subtler ways — by showing off complementary ties, bow ties or pocket squares. Shouger Merchant Doshi, designer to the stars, suggests that women match their dupatta or blouse to their partner’s tie and pocket scarf. Designer Digvijay Singh points out that couples can also look at “complementary” dressing as “going formal or casual together”, and cautions, “avoid clashes with Indian and western wear”.
The trend is a great way to “show closeness in this digital and visual age”, believes designer Lalit Sengar. “Most of my clients want to look coordinated with their partners, especially if it’s an important event,” he says. “But styling matters, as does fit. For instance, a suit can be very masculine, but the right cut makes it feminine.”
And never, ever sport a look that makes you uncomfortable, just to match your partner. “Comfort should be everybody’s dressing mantra — whether they’re single or taken!” says Nishka Lulla.
