What to wear when the sky is overcast and the mood is slightly gloomy? But monsoon season can be as cheery and fashionable these days, finds Sharmila Chand
Shocking! ‘Absolutely shocking’ is what best describes the monsoon fashion trend this season.
Neon power is blazing through attires, footwear, bags and even umbrellas. The cool pastels have given way to shocking shades of electric green, indigo, vibrant yellow and fluorescent pink to cheer up your mood.
What’s more, glowy hues for evening wear is becoming popular now. Add a splash of neon to your closet to sync in with the monsoon season. It is like getting back to 80’s neon trend, say the stylists.
A word of caution though by fashion designer Urvashi Kaur, known for her unique styling. “Make a loud and proud fashion statement with this season’s bright clothing but without looking like a light-bulb.”
How can one go about it? “By smart mix ‘ n’ match of the bright pieces from the wardrobe with whites and neutral shades. Make sure you add a hint of the neon trend to your outfit by wearing a single super- bright piece coordinating with the right footwear. Do not opt for 2 piece outfit where both are oozing shocking colors,” says Kaur.
The casual look is in too. “Embrace the rainy season with a casual fun attitude, says fashion designer, Nikhil Thampi.
“Take out your brightest, funkiest outfits. If that’s not your style, then wear your monochromes and give your outfit a dash of colour with an accessory that stands out,” advises Kaur.
One should have at least four pairs of shorts, she says. The choice should be a fabric that can dry faster, for example, a mix of lycra and cotton. Once teemed with a formal shirt, you are safe to wear it for a semi formal occasion.
“Wear materials that are water resistant and dry easily, such as nylon, chiffon, cotton blends or mixed fabrics. Lycra works well for formal dressy ensembles. Avoid materials like suede, which get ruined easily with water,” advises Kaur.
For die hard fans of denim, it is advisable to go for water-resistant denims like Wrangler SS12 collection, that protect one from moderate rain and wet weather, keeping you dry and fashionable at the same time. While these denims are water-repellent but not water-proof, they’re easy to wash and maintain.
As for shoes, “Stay comfortable during monsoon with gumboots, high heel wedges and stylish flip-flops,” says Nikhil Thampi.
Leather, suede and heavy embedded boots are a no-no in the rainy season. For women there is an array of funky waterproof sandals and slippers to choose from. Flip flops seem quintessential these days. With the availability of Brazilian brand, Havaianas, a range of fun and funky flip flops are aplenty. They are light, get dry fast, and are just perfect to add cheer in the gloomy atmosphere. Since bright colours are in, one can look for unusual shades and designs.
As colourful footwear seems to be the fashion mantra for this season, Kaur adds, “Women can have fun with funky plastic sandals in bold neon colours, transparent jellies in candy shades or printed gumboots. For the evenings, wear flip-flops with slight wedge heels.”
Men can opt for rainwear boots, closed shoes or floaters which are available in interesting designs and colours.
Accessories complete the look but choice should be made carefully. materials that tend to tarnish, such as silver should be avoided. Ceramics and beads are ideal, in sync with the eclectic vibe of the season.
“Keep your jewellery minimalistic – complete your ensemble with an interesting neckpiece or a pair of earrings that goes with your dressing style,” says Thampi.
Leather bags are a big no in the rainy season. Opt for funky colourful waterproof bags instead. Brands like Buck’s, Accessorize, etc offers many choices and impeccably crafted monsoon bags, along with pouches and laptop bags.
And now there are monsoon watches too which are waterproof and available in funky designs to coordinate with the tone of the monsoon apparel.
Play Glam Blue, Esprit Timewear, Puma, Guess Sparkler, Diesel Maritime, are some of the brands one can look for.
Even umbrellas these days make a style statement with trendy and interesting colours and prints. “Have at least two trendy umbrellas – one small for travel and a big one to keep at home,” suggests Kaur.
When buying rain coats and jackets, one should look for the ones with hoods and pockets for mobile phone and other small accessories. Select from an array of neons, polka dots, tiger prints and stripes,
“This monsoon is about colours – lots of bright, vibrant and vivid colours Bright big floral prints, fluid shear fabrics, layered and draped garments, surface texturization, scattering of sparkles…..sultry, sexy and glamorous silhouettes rule the season,” concludes seasoned fashion designer Payal Jain. (TWF)
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