Stuck on what to wear for Holi? Well, just reuse and repurpose old outfits, just like we did in childhood but with a modern twist. Wondering how? My Kolkata spoke to actress and fashion entrepreneur Chitrangada Satarupa for tips, and here’s what she recommends...
Tips to reuse clothes on Holi
Remember what we all did in our childhood? It was almost a norm to wear old and discarded clothes on Holi. Later in life, when making a fashion statement becomes more important, people start wearing special clothes on Holi. The only time I purchased clothing specifically for Holi was when I had nothing to discard and bought a white T-shirt that cost me just Rs 30. Last year, my sister (Ritabhari Chakraborty) gave me a white kurta-pyjama to wear on Holi. I was a little hesitant at first, fearing the colours would stain it, but then I decided to make it my Holi attire — every year. This year, too, I plan to wear it. I feel guilty about discarding clothes due to stains.
Since it’s already warm, it’s best to wear light-coloured cotton clothes on Holi Shutterstock
White is a colour that people prefer on Holi. For the sake of aesthetics, white looks very nice. I don’t have any such preference though. Since it’s already warm, it’s best to wear light coloured cotton clothes. I am not a big fan of synthetic anyway. Comfort comes first. Wearing fitted clothes and playing Holi means all the colours will get into your skin, so anti-fit is a good call. Denims too should be given a miss, because they tend to get heavy when they get wet. The lighter the material, the better.
Reusing for the first time? The mantra is…
Just ask yourself if you are okay giving your old clothes a makeover. Do you mind? Shutterstock
Hold the cloth and just ask yourself if you are okay giving it a makeover. Do you mind? Do you feel sad? If not, then go ahead with it. For solid-coloured outfits, colour stains can actually give them a new, unique look that you can wear for future Holis. If an outfit has a stain, like coffee, colours can cover it up — saving the garment from being discarded. Old tees and boxer-fit shorts are also great options for playing Holi.
Chitrangada Satarupa’s throwback photos of Holi Chitrangada Satarupa
Accessorise it (or not)
I prefer not to wear accessories while playing Holi. Instead, I opt for a bandana or dupatta to protect my hair and zhuzh up a bit. Fun wigs that we see at Holi parties are a quirky add-ons too and serve the purpose. Also, wear your shades. If someone is keeping it minimal on accessories, go with silvery stuff. Danglers, jhumkas or bangles are a little risky to wear, given the frolic that happens while playing Holi. Airy, water-resistant shoes, which you wear on a beach holiday, are good for the occasion.
When it comes to makeup, kohl and a tinter lip gloss should be good. Sunscreen (lots of it) is a must, not just on Holi but every day, regardless of the sun’s presence. It’s best to avoid outfits with embellishments, as the intricate work may get damaged while playing Holi.
One Holi hack I swear by
Cotton and comfortable underwears that have been used quite a bit are ideal Shutterstock
I always make sure to apply oil on my hair and sunscreen before playing Holi. And there’s something that does not often pop up during discussions — underwears. I don’t think wearing lacy or the best underwear on Holi is a good idea. Cotton and comfortable ones that have been used quite a bit is ideal.
Best part of repurposing is…
The best part about repurposing and reusing clothes is that there is the absence of pressure to wear a new attire. The tradition of wearing old clothes on Holi is practical. Also, you feel comfortable and relaxed, as you don’t have to worry about creases and stains. And most importantly, it is sustainable. But remember, if you are wasting water and repurposing clothes, it’s not sustainable.
A colourful Q&A with Chitrangada Satarupa
- Funniest Holi memory
It’s from our childhood when we used to play Holi in our Kolkata neighbourhood. We kids would play with abir and would finish our Holi early to avoid parar dadas, who were always drenched in pucca colours and would drench us too
- Best Holi pals are
My friends from college, including my husband Sambit (Chatterjee) and Bobo (of Bobo Calcutta). We had the best Holi parties at Bobo’s place
- One song that defines for you
Rang Barse, of course, and I also love Balam Pichkari
- Holi to you is…
Being with your own people — your friends and family, playing with colours (for as long as you are comfortable), dancing, singing, chilling and to have fun
- Festive wish for My Kolkata readers
I wish everyone a ‘Happy Holi’. Just remember to know your boundaries and respect the other person’s boundaries. It’s a joyful festival and should be memorable to everyone involved. Play Holi responsibly and try not to waste too much water
— As told to Pooja Mitra
