Here’s what I realised when I first met Jully Patel when she visited India a couple of years ago. She’s as ‘real’ IRL as she is on social media. And that was refreshing. It’s Patel’s authenticity, ease and humour that has made her community grow. Not to mention, her cool girl style—she loves colour and tailoring, and is not afraid of a bold print. Naturally, I had to ask her to share her cool girl wedding looks and of course, her take on the much discussed (hey, Diet Sabya!) NRI style.
Wed count: “Two over the past year in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Orlando, Florida.”
Dress codes: “For my best friend's wedding, the dress code was orange or yellow saris. It was a beautiful outdoor Telugu wedding, so I wore a striped yellow (Bhawna Sharma X Ekaya) sari with a strapless blouse paired with temple jewellery.”
Favourite designer: “Anamika Khanna. Her designs are so ‘cool girl chic’ which resonates with my personal style. I'm in my multi-colour era—outfits that have bright colours and embroidery call my name. For ethnic wear, recently I feel the best in saris.”
Wedding guest style: “Less is more. Get statement outfits and keep your accessories and styling minimal and quick. This way it's easy to get ready, not a lot to think about, and you can enjoy all the festivities.”
Destination wedding trick: “Saris, saris, saris. There are so many silhouettes that you can wear five saris, but it won’t look like you’ve worn just saris the entire wedding. You can only fit so much in your checked bag so when in doubt, pack more saris.”
Won’t leave home without: “A body glow. I love the Sol De Janeiro Glow Body Oil and the Vaseline Luminous Glow. It's my final step out for an event.”
In my clutch: “Safety pins, every lip product under the sun and a good pair of shades.”
NRI pro tip: “Embrace both sides of your cultures. Growing up Indian American, I’m exposed to two worlds and when I dress for weddings, I like to tie them together. You can add non-Indian accessories to your Indian wear, mix certain pieces together to create a cool fusion look. Also, vintage is having a moment so something from a decade ago that can still work. Pinterest and India based digital magazines will be your best friend. Or my Instagram!”
Next wedding destination: “Udaipur!”
