Alicia Keys sports `desi` jewellery

Keys wore a traditional Indian `maang teeka` at the annual Black Ball.

New York: R&B star Alicia Keys wore a traditional Indian `maang teeka` at a star-studded annual Black Ball for her charity `Keep A Child Alive`, which raises money for HIV/AIDS patients in India and Africa. The `Falling` hitmaker who is eight months pregnant with her first child, wore a form fitting grey lace gown with the gold accessory adorning her forehead.

The singer who walked the red carpet hand in hand with husband Swizz Beatz, who she married in August in France, also performed at the show with Jay-Z. Indian outfits and accessories have entered mainstream fashion in the West, with many Hollywood celebrities embracing ethnic styles. Socialite and designer Nicole Richie uses Indian designs in her jewelery line `House of Harlow`. The sari has moved on from being a daily Indian staple to an international style statement. `Sugababes`, the popular girl band sported sarees and bindis in their latest avatar as Indian brides. The musical trio of Amelle Barabah, Heidi Range and Jade Ewen got an Indian make-over for the cover of Asian Woman magazine, reported Sun online. Earlier the American group `Pussycat Dolls` had walked the red carpet wearing saris to announce their single Jai Ho. Liz Hurley, Victoria Beckham and Ashley Judd are some other Hollywood beauties who have worn the Indian ensemble. PTI