If you’ve grown up on second-hand FOMO imports from the States, where fashioning the star-spangled banner, especially around holidays like the Fourth of July was not only encouraged but a bona fide rite of passage – just know you’re not alone. Not to draw a line of comparison between how both countries view their respective flags, but at least back home, the Tiranga is an object of utter reverence. So much so, that wearing it on your person – literally could make you the subject of immense scrutiny and controversy. But that doesn’t mean you completely discard the theme for your Independence Day gatherings! There’s always a way to honour the Tiranga respectfully, without having to resort to just picking between an orange or a green kurta. The trick is to keep it simple but sophisticated in the silhouette, instead, playing around with texture, colours and accessorisation.

Ethnic wear enthusiasts have been unassumingly colour blocking long before modern fashion itemised the styling hack as a trend. So it’s time to go back to out roots. The only rule of thumb to follow here is to pick shades of the three colours that work well with each other. For example, a parrot green and a tart saffron is going to be a tough combination to champion, so be mindful. Now for the actual styling cue, pair a saffron kurta with a pair of white trousers – if you want to look tailored, or pajamas – if you want to feel more boho. Work in the green through either your bag, bangles or footwear. While putting together your outfit, treat the three colours as separate units as opposed to trying to wear them in sequence. That is exactly what will make your final look feel less like costume-like, and more natural.

This has to be the easiest way to work all three colours in to your look, also allowing you a plethora of options in silhouettes. A kurta, a maxi dress, a kaftan, a saree, a co-ord – the options here are endless! The only thing you’d want to keep in mind for this is to ensure that the pattern of the colours bleeding into one another feel soft and like one cohesive unit as opposed to visually dividing your outfit into multiple sections. This is one of those hacks which promise to give the colours the centre-stage, provided you keep the silhouette simple. Mission achieved!

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This is the best canvas you could ask for. A white kurta set, saree or even a flowing dress can be completely transformed with what you add on to it. Think an orange bandana tied over your head or wrist, grounding the outfit instead of dominating it; a green manicure irrespective of the shade you choose keeps the introduction of the colour subtle but defining; and finally, even if you’re leaning towards a western silhouette, this is one of those days that can have a stack of blue glass bangles work with almost anything. Come to think of it, this is the least fussy way to go about the day also leaving loads of room for experimentation.

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All said and done, consider these styling tips just the blueprint of all that you could wear tomorrow. The important thing here is to let your personal style shine through the three-colour template for tomorrow, though don’t be afraid to expand your palette beyond it. After all, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the colours of India while also honouring your individuality.