Go local

Globally from food to furniture and everything in between, the onus is on patronizing locally produced things. Join this movement and reap the benefits of experiencing artistic handlooms and handicrafts while being light on the pocket. This especially makes sense in a country like India which is home to several beautiful and one of a kind textiles, jewellery, footwear, and embroidery. Ikat from Andhra, Chikankari of Lucknow,  Bandhej from Rajasthan, Kutchi bags, tribal jewellery, embroidery, Bengal muslin and tassar, Tamil Nadu silk and cotton, fabric from the north east like ahimsa silk, prints from all over the country, the possibilities are just endless. Scout local bazaars and exhibitions, develop an eye for interesting stuff and leave your own unique mark on everything you don. Morjaris embroidered or otherwise are no less fashionable than ballerinas. Be proud of your culture and flaunt it every opportunity you get. A western design made in Indian fabric can be very catchy and distinct. Most famous designers also source their fabrics from local stores so it’s not really like you are making a compromise. Your unique creations might actually become conversation starters and you will discover that they are so much better than the mass produced things that are sold in expensive stores. Always add your own special twist, be creative, curious, experiment, innovate, make mistakes, learn, be open to criticism, improve, be ecologically and socially conscious and then what you end up being is a “fashion diva” in every sense of the word.