Prop up your style quotient with a traditional bandi this festive season

At first glance, a bandi, the sleeveless, short bandhgala, comes off as a traditional piece of clothing, best saved for festivals and formal occasions. But the bandi can also elevate a boring, run-of-the-mill look. How to wear it:

1. Formal, linen shirts or even kurtas — the bandi complements a variety of options. When in doubt, colour block by teaming a bandi in a solid hue with crisp white shirts and kurtas.

2. Throw it over a pair of jeans and tee for an elegant party outfit. A bandi also makes you look drastically slimmer from the sides.

3. A celebratory bandi calls for jewelled buttons. Gold-plated buttons or diamond-studded ones look striking.

4. Midnight blue, off white, deep maroon and printed bandis (worn in contrast with single tone shirts) are all-time favourites.