Carefree and casual is perhaps the best way to sum up actress Swastika Dutta’s off-screen style. She likes to keep it simple and has a fondness for saris, among others, that have a lived-in feel. For this shoot that’s close to her heart, Swastika has chosen a range that’s just right for the season of get-togethers and festivities. All the saris are from a label called ‘Chitrangada’ that’s a labour of love by her close friend’s mother, Lipika Basu, who has been running it since 2011. “There are quite a few homegrown brands and they need our support. She is like family. I have also opened an Instagram account for aunty. I admire the fact that she is pursuing a liking beyond the confines of her home and she is very self-sufficient,” says Swastika.

This multicoloured Dhakai is festive pretty

Basu was a school teacher and loves saris. “Saris have so much passion and emotion. Every sari means something different to me,” she says.

Swastika looks elegant in a Begampuri, complete with lovely flowers

The Begampuris that Swastika has worn for the shoot are a suggestion from Basu. “These are woven in a remote village and are in pure cotton. They look lovely,” she says.

Our favourite is this black-and-white Begampuri drape that has a certain playfulness

Swastika has a liking for Dhakais and loves the soft ones that ‘Chitrangada’ has. “These saris feel like linen. I feel the collection is curated keeping in mind the younger generation. She was a teacher for years and knows what’s comfortable for a working woman,” she says.

Lipika Basu

Swastika herself has a large collection of saris. “This Puja I didn’t buy saris because I had a lot of new ones. I think I will find a couple more even now if I look!” she laughs.

In keeping with her easy-breezy aesthetics, Swastika likes to drape her saris casually too, with a special focus on interesting blouses. “I like the play of contrast of colours. I somehow feel I look a little more beautiful in saris,” she laughs.

Among personalities, Swastika likes how veteran actress Rekha carries her saris, especially the gorgeous Kanjeevarams. “I love South silks too and have a lot of them. Saris do make a statement and I think they make you look really young! It’s so versatile,” she smiles.

The sunglasses give this look a retro charm. The soft taant can be dressed up and down

Her top tips to dress up in a sari this season are to choose vibrant and glittery ones and complement the look with fresh and subtle make-up.

A forever favourite? A black sari with red lips.

Classic. We love.

 
Stylist: Subrata Roy,
makeup and hair: Baban Islam, creative director: Sourav Chel, location courtesy: Hyatt Regency Kolkata