Natty netas

There are many things you might associate a politician with, but not style. If anything, their sartorial choices appear drab to say the least. But now, there seems to be a dramatic change in the political style-o-sphere. If PM Narendra Modi has fashionistas going gaga over his choice of clothing, our local netas too are putting a stylish foot forward.
On Saturday evening, the city glitterati were taken by surprise, when TRS MP, Kavitha Kalvakuntla, walked in for an event, clad in a sari made of malkha fabric, teamed with a black jacket-style blouse. It’s important to note that her style statement was firmly embedded in Telangana soil. The field-to-fabric cotton textile, malkha, is an integral thread in the state’s rich textile heritage.
And just like Kavitha, a number of our politicians today, like former union minister Chiranjeevi, Hyderabad Mayor Majid Hussain, politician Nara Lokesh and Telangana IT Minister KT Rama Rao among others, are wearing their style on their sleeves, within the confines and decorum of the offices they hold.
“Today, being in politics is more like being in a boardroom — you have to dress smart to make an impact,” says designer Shravan Kumar, who has dressed a number of politicians. “Since our state is all about corporate connect, I’ve seen KTR clad in crisp suits when attending a summit, and he looks dapper! Similarly with other young politicians —though they wear khadi, it comes with a design and colour twist. This change is refreshing and exciting,” says Shravan, adding, “I’ve seen politicians comfortably clad in chinos and polo tees as they are in ethnic wear.”
While netas have for long been honing the image of a ‘people’s person’ by wearing whites, today, they are more open to experimenting with Indian fabrics in different cuts and silhouettes. And this is an encouraging sign for local weavers, feels designer Shilpa Reddy. “The fashion industry is working hard towards reviving Indian weaves and fabric. So, who better than a politician to promote it? That way, they’ll help put Indian weaves on the world map and many Indians too will opt for such fabrics. I believe this will whole lot of good for the weavers as far as their livelihood is concerned,” she says.
And going by their recent stylish makeovers, it looks like mana politicians are set to take the style stakes a notch higher. “This change will herald a new era in style, for politics. I can foresee ties, branded briefcases, cufflinks etc., becoming an integral part of a politician’s wardrobe,” says Shravan.
Neta style decoded:
Kavitha Kalvakuntla: Earthy, charming and completely rooted in the culture of the state, Kavita’s style statements scream ‘Telangana with a twist’.
Chiranjeevi: Dapper and dashing — just like his on-screen persona. Chiru’s suits are well-cut and perfectly fitted, while his ethnic wear is comfortable and non-fussy.
Majid Hussain: The city mayor has perfected the art of channeling asal Hyderabad through his sharp sherwanis, while reflecting the city’s yuppie side in denims and tees.
Nara Lokesh: A businessman and politician, Lokesh’s wardrobe has hints of influence from his Ivy League education, that seamlessly embraces Telugu culture.
KTR: The well-spoken KTR looks in control of the boardroom when attending business summits dressed in well-cut trousers and shirts. He enhances his massy appeal in ethic wear made of traditional Telangana fabrics.
Jay Galla: The first-time MP’s wardrobe strikes the perfect balance between neta and a suave businessman.