Anjali Phougat Decodes Akanksha Chamola's Effortlessly Elegant Style

Akanksha Chamola's stint on Lock Upp season 2 has kept viewers talking - not just for the personal revelations she's made on the show, but for the sartorial choices that have quietly built her a fashion following. US-based stylist and actor Anjali Phougat, who's been watching the show closely, says there's a method behind Chamola's understated glamour.

"From a stylist's point of view, she has a naturally elegant screen presence," Phougat says. "She wears understated fashion really well. Instead of drowning her personality in loud styling, I think her beauty comes through in clean silhouettes, refined fabrics, and small, thoughtful details."

A palette built around jewel tones

Ask Phougat what colours work in Chamola's favour, and she doesn't hesitate. Emerald green, deep wine, sapphire blue, teal, and classic black top her list - shades she says bring out Chamola's features without overwhelming them. Softer neutrals like ivory, champagne, beige, and blush round out the palette, lending a gentler, graceful quality. The idea, Phougat explains, is to let the person lead and the outfit follow. "These shades allow her expressions to take centre stage instead of competing with the outfit."

Silhouettes that flatter her frame

On what actually suits Chamola's body type, Phougat points to well-tailored sarees, contemporary draped gowns, monochromatic co-ord sets, elegant Anarkalis, and Indo-Western pieces. Her advice leans toward restraint over spectacle - minimal jewellery, clean hair, polished makeup, and an overall look that doesn't rely on heavy embellishment to make an impact. "Timeless styling speaks louder for her," she says.

On the divorce controversy: courage, but also caution

The conversation naturally turned to Chamola's decision to speak about her divorce on national television - a disclosure that's fuelled plenty of chatter online. Phougat acknowledges it takes nerve for anyone in the public eye to open up about something so personal, but she's also wary of how these moments get consumed.

"It is shocking that actors, just for a reality show, end up speaking about everything personal, and that becomes a social media tamasha," she says. "Who are we to judge? But surely audiences shouldn't be fooled with fake information. People often present a picture-perfect, lovey-dovey, happy life, and then suddenly one fine day announce that the relationship is over. That naturally leaves everyone confused."

Still, she's careful not to pass judgment. "None of us truly knows the complete story behind a relationship except the people living it," Phougat adds. "Every difficult chapter has the potential to become a journey of self-discovery and growth. Instead of judging, I'd rather appreciate authenticity and wish people healing, peace, and the freedom to rebuild their lives with dignity."

She ends on a note that brings the conversation full circle - from fashion back to character. "Fashion can transform how someone looks, but character is what leaves a lasting impression. Confidence, resilience, kindness, and authenticity are always the most beautiful things a person can wear."