A printed dupatta is the quickest way to refresh what is already in your wardrobe. With one in a soft colour and a clear print, like our rose-print chiffon with a rosewood border, you can create very different looks in a minute.
1. The classic one-shoulder drape
Fold the dupatta lengthwise into a neat band, place it over your left shoulder and let both ends fall, one in front and one behind. Pin it discreetly at the shoulder. This is the cleanest look for work and errands, and it shows off the border at both ends.
2. Over both shoulders
Drape the dupatta around the back of your neck so both ends fall to the front, at the same length or one slightly longer. It frames a plain kurti beautifully and works especially well with a straight cotton kurti and ivory trousers.
3. A soft head cover
For a dawat or a visit to family, place the centre of the dupatta loosely on your head, cross one side under the chin and throw it over the opposite shoulder. Chiffon is light enough to stay comfortable for hours.
4. The front pleat
Make five or six narrow pleats along the width, pin them on one shoulder and let the dupatta fall across the front to the opposite hip. The pleats catch the light and turn a simple suit into something more formal.
5. With a solid abaya
A printed dupatta works with modest wear too. Wear a plain jersey hijab and lay the dupatta over one shoulder of a black or mocha abaya; the print adds colour without changing your silhouette.
Picking the right colour
- Choose a dupatta that repeats one colour from your outfit: the leaf green, the border or the flower centres.
- Light grounds such as blush, ivory and mint go with almost every solid colour.
- Let the dupatta be the only printed piece when your suit is already busy.
Store chiffon dupattas folded in a cotton bag, away from direct sun, and iron them on low heat. A little care keeps the tassels neat and the print bright for years.
