Dress to impress

In November Prince Harry announced his engagement with long-time girlfriend Meghan Markle, making another commoner a part of the British royal family. A known face in Hollywood, Meghan has always been in the public eye. But being part of a royal family brings extra attention.

As she attended the Royal Family’s traditional Christmas Day service at the Queen’s Sandringham estate, it was Meghan’s hat that caught the public eye. The Suits actress opted for a felted wool tobacco-hued face-framing hat to complement her dress.

Soon enough, her hat caught the Internet’s attention comparing it to the poo emoji.

However, when you’re in the limelight, experts say that you must keep a few protocols in mind, with regards to your presentation.

Meghan’s instance is one most face on a daily basis — dressing appropriately for a public event. Stylist Eshaa Amiin explains that one needs to understand the occasion well, and then choose an outfit. “Meghan’s outfit was big of a mismatch,” explains the stylist, adding, “If it is a formal event, one can opt for a dress in dark colours or probably a trench coat. While Meghan opting for a trench coat wasn’t bad, she could have chosen something vibrant.”

Alternatively, Eshaa lists out options to dress sartorially for such events. “One can even pick a pantsuit, a dress suit or skirt suit. If you want to go for something feminine, you can also opt for stockings.”

 Fashion designer Amy Billimoria believes it is important to take the timing of the event while zeroing in on an outfit. “If it is a day event, opt for light colours like mint, peaches and nude colours,” she adds.

If a hat is important for an event, Eshaa insists on working the outfit around it. “It is important, first find the right hat to compliment your face type. Choosing a dress should be secondary,” she smiles.

 So, should one stick to the classics or have a scope for little imagination and experiment with looks? “I would advise people to experiment. You just need to keep in mind the body type, use a classic and opt for a statement accessory,” advises Amy.

 Explaining how Michale Obama experimented with designers but never stepped out from the sophistication zone and the dignity of being a first lady, Eshaa suggests on experimenting with colour. “Experiments can be done with statements. For example, Princess Diana always made a statement while experimenting with different looks,” she adds.

According to life coach Khyati Birla, looking right is more important than looking fashionable and that at a public event focus is on the audience. “At a formal event, it makes sense to look right, if necessary, one should consult a stylist. At a public event even as the crowd maybe receptive to fashion, it is the occasion that needs to be in focus.” She instances that at a Hindu wedding, it is not advisable to be boldly experimental in black, since it may offend people at a much larger level. “One needs to understand that the event isn’t about them, but about the occasion,” she concludes.