Paging Dr. Lahiri.
Mindy Lahiri (Mindy Kaling) was an OB/GYN in New York City and clearly a successful one evidenced by her collection of quilted Chanel and Hermes Birkin bags.
When not swathed in a white lab coat or confined to scrubs, the M.D.'s style vacillated between fashion glamour puss replete with more than a hint of shimmer and dowdy, parochial school girl jumpers and blouses with cardigan chasers in either drab gray/navy/black or a sensory overload of ROYGBIV. (She also seemed to have a penchant for polka dots.)
Viewers could gage what was going on in Mindy's life with one look at what she was wearing. (She once wore PJs to work during a low romantic moment.) Most of the time though, the medical professional took pride in her appearance.
Best: The LBD Kicked Up Royally
Dr. Mindy could look downright regal when she set her mind to it. A little black dress wasn't even safe from her love of sequins and need to sparkle. Form-fitting without being body-con, the glittery striped dress shows off her womanly curves while still looking sleek and chic. The purple (color of royalty) satin coat dresses up the sheath even more if that's possible. The matching purple earrings add just the right touch.
There's no doubt that in this outfit, when boyfriend Ben shows up, he'll be glad he did.
Worst: This Is Not A Tyler Perry Movie
"It's my church outfit," Mindy explains to her brother. "Haven't you ever seen a Tyler Perry movie?" Not only does this young woman look matronly, but she seems to be from another time and place; like the 1960's midwest or south. What's black and white and unflattering all over? This. The hat does not help and looks like one of the extreme chapeaus that women wear to Kentucky Derby parties.
When Mindy got to the religious service, there was the requisite comedic bit where the worshipers behind her complained because they couldn't see past the wide brim and (gasp) feathers. Let's hope she prayed to know better next time.
Best: Checks All The Boxes For Professional
Indeed, Mindy is pretty in pink without a hint of overkill. The long hair adds a bit of glamour to this bright but all business casual outfit. The straight skirt hugs her figure perfectly (FYI: nothing makes one look fatter than one is than too tight clothing), and the matching pink and white windowpane print top is fun in a subtle way. The complements of pink drop sparkle stone earrings and pink lipstick bring the whole ensemble together.
Dr. Lahiri is proof that she can be large and in charge, as well as a fashion plate.
Worst: A Mindy Spotting
Oh yes, she did. To be fair, Dr. Mindy was pregnant and wanted to feel wanted by Danny. She got her sexy on--literally--by donning this black and gold lycra catsuit, then went into full Bond Girl by accessorizing with gold jewelry replete with a harness necklace as well as metallic nail polish. Not even the rock 'n' roll studded black boots with golden buckles could save this fashion faux pas. When Danny finally arrived home, he took one look at her and laughed. Insensitive? Yes. Understandable? Well, that gets a yes as well.
All is not lost though. Mindy could wear it to Comic-Con.
Best: Lady Sings The Blues (In A Good Way)
Talk about dressed for success. The navy, white, and royal blue plaid shirt suit with a belted jacket to accentuate the waist is bold yet business-like. The argyle patterned stockings are next-level stylish and the embroidered gloves (gloves!) are an accessory not many people indulge in, making Dr. Mindy's outfit even more of a standout. Once again, these pieces fit as though they are bespoke.
This is a one-of-a-kind in anyone's closet--too much plaid screams parochial school uniform. This is what you pick out from your wardrobe for the big meeting, major presentation, or important social luncheon.
Worst: Just Say No To Indiana Jones
Was she looking for the lost ark?
Perhaps the drab mustard-colored silk blouse made her do it. Or maybe it's the dated brown-toned skirt that was the inspiration. Or perhaps she just lost her common (as well as fashion) sense for a moment when she decided it was a good idea to put on that sable colored hat and pick up the whip.
Yes, one must concede that Dr. Lahiri indeed has a "hat face" and would probably look cute under more stylish circumstances -- such as in a Ralph Lauren bulky sweater, jeans, and cowboy boots (you get the idea.)
Best: The Classic Statement
This is the best of her statement coats and the statement Mindy's making here is: "I have taste." The red with blue trim outerwear is a classic in the tradition of Brooks Brothers finished off of course with gold buttons. The light blue in her scarf complements the darker, bolder palette nicely and her orange Birkin is a pop of color and expensive chic that makes the outfit and its wearer take the elevator straight to upscale.
When Mindy looks pulled together as she does here, she truly is a force to be reckoned with.
Worst: Orange Is Not The New Black
Not even the beautiful Missoni-looking scarf can salvage this fashion choice. Perhaps Mindy never learned that a little (very little) orange goes a long way. The rusty orange vest over the bright orange with (count'em) white polka dots is just too much--as well as a bit juvenile in nature. Mindy, you're a doctor. You've got Chanel bags in an array of colors and shapes. This fashion choice is beneath you.
Good move to wear this to a place where one sits in the dark.
Best: A Lady Who Lunches
When a lavender coat dress with light blue Birkin and fun, statement earrings are on the menu is it a wonder that all patrons' eyes would be on Dr. Lahiri? Here, she was meeting Danny, his mother (Rhea Perlman), and aunt for lunch and she wanted to make an impression. (Mindy also brought each lady a gift so that helped too.) She looked, beautiful, poised, and although dressed to the nines, still came off as unfussy.
That's because this particular garment which has been in women's wardrobes since the 1910s is a simple piece that gives off an extravagant style vibe.
Worst: Is It Easter Already?
Well, we've all been there. We need a change and do something drastic, in this case, the chopping off of the hair. OK, it'll grow back. Until then, it behooves one to put the focus on the face by wearing makeup and on clothing choices that will flatter, which did not happen here. It looks as though Dr. Mindy was dyeing eggs and the food coloring exploded all over her blouse.
Indeed it does technically match her pink patterned pastel dress that has "pretty" potential as a stand-alone outfit perhaps with strappy spring sandals.