Now that sunny days are over and monsoon is here again, Punekars are all geared up to enjoy chai and pakoda. And they are also getting fashion ready with stylish rainwear to make merry in monsoon. Talking to a few fashion enthusiasts, we find out how one can make the best of their monsoon wardrobe and step out in style.
Samyukta Nair, who is the founder of Clove, Mumbai, recently launched her new collection Here Comes the Blue. She says that monsoon is no longer synonymous with drab clothing in sombre hues. With heavy downpour and gloomy skies, shades of blue are the ideal choice to bring some joy to your wardrobe.
“I would recommend one to opt for cool aquatic shades that signify the rains. These tones evoke a sense of serene calmness and pairing them with neutral tones can create an arresting look. Besides, shades of blue are versatile and look good on everyone,” Nair points out.
So why does blue make a perfect shade for the monsoon? Well blue is a calm, serene shade that is endlessly in vogue and can make one look effortlessly chic as it’s easy to wear from day to night. It also signifies the sea and rains, and brings some joy in this glum weather.
Talking about the patterns and fabrics that one should opt for during this season, Nair suggests fabrics that are light and soft and have a lustrous appeal. She also mentions that staple stripes, modern silhouettes and light layers make monsoon dressing effortlessly chic.
While many like opting for blue shades, one can create striking looks by combining hints of brighter shades with subtle ones to create a look that is cheery and bright. Nair is of the opinion that people should not restrict colours to just summer, when monsoon seems perfect to steal all the hues.
With calming stripes and lighter hues, the need to accessorise is more. “Delicate contemporary design to create a simple yet chic look or statement beaded pieces to stand out — it’s all about balancing the bright and muted tones this season,” says Nair.
Talking about monsoon footwear trends that will be doing the rounds this season, Ruchi Sally, managing director, Melissa India, says that comfort always takes a front seat and what is better than a pair of flip-flops, sliders or sneakers to match a rainy muddy day?
But for anyone who wouldn’t want to permanently ruin their shoes by stepping into a mud puddle, Sally suggests that it is better to look out for washable sneakers or flats, so that they can be used as often and can be cleaned with just a wipe, even after daily wear.
“Washable flip-flops, gumboots, quirky flats and sneakers are trending this monsoon or I would say they are the best for any monsoon because they never really go out of style,” she says. And for those who just cannot do without heels, they can probably choose the wedge to stand tall.
Sally points out that one should not miss out on any quirky colours this season. Opt for vibrant pop colours that will add a bit of funk and complement your outfit. Hot pink, orange, green, nude, black, prints, unicorn shades are the colours off the ramp this year that would absolutely look gorgeous on a cloudy day.
When asked what are the type of shoes that are a must this season, Sally says that a few that she thinks that are an absolute must are the water resistant ones. “Washable, long-lasting, comfortable and anti-skid are just some of the reasons they should be your new best friend this season. But make sure that you buy a pair that is crafted out of quality material so that it doesn’t skid and at the same time allows you to be super stylish,” she says.
However, no matter how stylish one looks, it is a fact that monsoons can be rough on footwear so choosing water-resistant shoes for the monsoon is our priority. “If you have the right pair for the season, all you have to do to is wipe it clean with a tissue or wet wipe and you are good to go,” concludes Sally.
