Meet the small screen fashionistas

The rocketing growth in the Indian television industry has turned telly actors into stars in the literal sense. To leave a mark with their style statements and to outshine others, the TV fraternity is really getting fashion conscious by the day!

Most of our telly chicas, namely Rakshanda Khan, Gauri Pradhan are established fashion icons in their own respective spheres. It's proven by the fact that retailers are making a fortune by merchandising Nandini wali sarees, Ramona's bindis, Bani's earrings and much more…

The importance of looking good is reaffirmed by these telly babes. Monaz explains, "Although everybody wants to look good, it's all the more important in our line of work, for here everybody is looking at us and one mistake and we are out." Rakshanda Khan seconds Monaz, "We are style icons, people look up to us and copy what we wear, hence we have to live up to their expectations and it not easy always being prim and proper. Trust me, it's hard."

Even in their personal life, these stars have their own style which catches the fancy of one and all. For instance Monaz prefers tight sexy minis, which ends up 5" from her knees but would also get into a churidar kurta for a casual coffee. Reema Kapoor, though has no issues with short skirts, prefers the longer version, as it helps to hide her petite frame. Manini Mihir Mishra loves bright coloured outfits - be it short skirts, fitted shirts or jackets. Mandira Bedi as we all know looks a million bucks in a saree, and she prefers georgette or chiffon drapes for a night out. Chavi Mittal who loves to don backless evening gowns prefers to laze at home in shorts and ganjis. Rakshanda Khan digs Gavin Miguel outfits and recommends his silhouette gowns.

Talking about sarees, though these small screen sirens are generally seen only in nine yards, personally it's a struggle for them to get in one! Narayani Shastri is hassled with the palu while Rakshanda says, "Though I have worn sarees for six years in serials, I still haven't got the hang of draping one. But I loved the Satya Paul sarees I wore for Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin". Mandira, a pro at this Indian attire likes to team her sarees with halter, tube and backless cholis and not to forget, the noodle straps. So does Chavi Mittal who loved her netted sarees in Tumhari Disha and explains, "Saree is the most beautiful outfit for the Indian woman, for you can use it to look either sexy or dignified, the choice is yours."

Accessories also figure high on these ladies wish list, Reema Kapoor can't do without matching her bags and shoes with her outfit. Monaz loves stocks bangles and junk jewelry, which she can wear to different parties and adds, "You really cannot afford to have so much variety in real gold and diamonds". Chavi is not some much of an accessories person, so would rather wear a real hep watch.

And here are the fashion fundas of these stars! Chavi Mittal believes in dignified dressing and says, "You should look sensuous and not vulgar, and unfortunately many girls today have forgotten this subtle difference." Mandira Bedi adds, "Skin show ain't necessary. Look at Rekha and Dimple Kapadia - both these beautiful women are always fully clad. Yet they look extremely good, don't they?" Manini doesn't follow trends blindly. "Your personality comes across through your style. So if you dress inappropriately then you end up looking silly."

Bottom line - All subscribe to the motto of comfort dressing and not just to please others!