“Dressing can be therapeutic, not merely about wearing clothes.”
There’s a powerful, positive feeling that washes over you when someone compliments your outfit, a feeling that’s both flattering and overwhelming. This is exactly what I experienced recently when I decided to wear a half-saree for the Varalakshmi Vratam festival.
I had planned this look almost a month in advance. My half-saree was an old favorite, so I made sure to have the loose stitches mended and gave it a fresh press to get it ready. As I’m not the best at draping, my aunt graciously helped me pre-pleat the saree the day before. I chose a beautiful red and green combination with red tassels, a classic and vibrant pairing.
Next came the self-care ritual. I started with my skincare routine: moisturizer, sunscreen, and lip balm to prep my canvas. For makeup, I went for a minimal look to enhance my features without overpowering the outfit. I used a primer, concealer, and setting powder for a smooth base, then applied kajal, eyeliner, and mascara to make my eyes pop. A bold red lipstick was the final touch, followed by a brown lip gloss to soften the intensity.
For my jewelry, I chose a simple yet elegant double-beaded gold chain. Since this was for a more formal occasion, I paired it with simple ruby-colored studs that perfectly complemented my red dress. A delicate pearl bangle added a touch of sophistication to the entire look.
The final add on attraction were the flowers. My amma (mother) lovingly tied a strand of kanakambaralu flowers, which went perfectly with my dress. With everything in place, I felt completely myself and at ease. It was a reminder that sometimes, the effort we put into our appearance can be a powerful act of self-love and a truly therapeutic experience.
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