My sister forwarded a colour chart for Navratri, saying that in Maharashtra, people follow the colour code. I forwarded it to my college group, and my colleagues happily abided. Navratri marks the beginning of the festival season, so I extended the request to dress up in their best attire for the week before the Diwali break. Putting on our glittery/ shimmery outfits, jhumkas/ kantas and makeup, what fun we had! The staffroom was filled with gaiety. We clicked pictures. The infectious happiness spread as compliments cascaded around.
The proverb ‘clothes maketh the man’ may be interpreted as the way a person dresses is often the first impression the onlookers get. Though clothes don’t determine a person’s core entity, being well dressed does affect one’s confidence. Elegance is not just a style; it is a state of mind.
When we were in school/ college, two neat tight plaits, broad rimmed glasses meant you were studious. Professionals carried a set image: crisp, pinned saree, neatly tied hair, minimalist makeup and somber jewelry. The outlook is changing now.
Wearing attractive and appropriate clothing that is clean, neat and fits properly implies a sense of taste and care in one’s appearance. My Ma always advocates wearing a quality outfit. Buy two, but buy good ones. Never compromise. At home, many a time we loathe changing and laze around in dowdy attire. Well, there are days! But in general, one should pay attention to one’s appearance. One does not have to dress to the hilt, a la Christmas tree, but a little care is warranted.
Elegance is the beauty that never fades. Wearing clothes and coordinated accessories as per the occasion is an art. A well-groomed person is a cynosure. When you dress well, you feel good. It enhances your mood, boosts confidence and self-esteem. This makes you more likely to engage with the world and pursue your goals with a positive mindset. Dressing well is not only a mark of good manners, but it also shows that you take care of yourself. Moreover, it helps ensure you make a positive initial impression in social and professional settings.
Whether you’re meeting friends, colleagues, or strangers, dressing well means you value this interaction enough to come dressed looking your best. It’s a subtle yet powerful way to build trust and goodwill. Dressing well gives you a sense of order and stability, reinforcing a mindset that you’re in charge of your own destiny. Wearing new clothes on pilgrimage, festivals, birthdays, and anniversaries is auspicious.
In sickness, a quick sponge, a set of fresh clothes, surely lifts your spirit. Obviously, you should wear appropriate garments during convalescence. A sneak at your wardrobe is a sure shot recuperation antidote. Remember the Covid phase, the time spent in casuals? How did we dress up for our online engagements?
As age catches up, we use it as an alibi for our sloppy appearance. In fact, it is more imperative to pay attention. Bright colours lift our mood and reflect brightness on our visage. Elegance is the only beauty that never fades. Dressing well isn’t showing off. It is about valuing yourself. You never know when life-changing opportunities come knocking!
Suruchi Kalra Choudhary
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