Going vest

From Urmila Matondkar in Rangeela to celebrities’ off-duty looks, the ganji has remained a fashion staple

In a recent interview, Urmila Matondkar shared that the ganji she wore for the hit song Tanha tanha in the cult film Rangeela, was actually Jackie Shroff’s. Although that decision was probably made in a few minutes, the fashion moment it created has endured for decades now and, if anything, proves the immense versatility of this relatively basic garment. “What makes ganjis so popular is that they can be dressed up or down quite easily. It is a closet essential because it can be layered with so many other pieces and mixed and matched into a variety of chic looks,” shares image consultant and personal branding expert Mihika Bhanot.

Oversize it

Malaika Arora. Pics/Instagram

Pick a ganji that’s one size larger than your usual and pair it with loose, boyfriend, mom or ripped jeans. You can add a twist to this by tucking one corner of the ganji into the jeans. Ganjis are especially flattering when paired with high-waist pants that have a tapered bottom. Accessorise with double or triple-layered necklaces, or chunky bracelets. Don’t hesitate to mix and match shapes, colours and textures to add more dimension to your look, says Bhanot.

Travel-friendly 

Deepika Padukone

For a travel look that is on par with off-duty model fashion, pair a loose, lightweight ganji with shorts and chunky sneakers or ankle boots. While black and white are classic colours, neon and pastels look great on ganjis and immediately make your look stand out. Finish your look with oversized hoop earrings and a messy bun. 

Indo-Western flair

Mihika Bhanot

High-waist palazzo pants or skirts with traditional Indian prints or embroidery pair well with ganjis. Add large bohemian earrings and a scarf or cape for even more pizzazz. You can also dress up the shoulders with large earrings worn as brooches. When doing your makeup, don’t hesitate to go bold either with your lip colour or your eye make-up, Bhanot advises. 

Layer it

When worn for a formal event, ganjis can come off as slightly too casual unless paired smartly. Draping a scarf shifts the focal point away from a low neckline to your face, while a smart blazer or shrug adds more visual weight.

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