Wednesday, June 15, 2011

LET IT RAIN - HOW TO DRESS RIGHT FOR THE SEASON

Don't let the rains take over your wardrobe and stop you from looking great; Mithila Mehta shows you how to dress right for the season 

Beautiful as the rains are, they put even the most fashionable ones to test. "I never know what to wear during the monsoons. My staple pair of jeans is no longer appropriate. Footwear becomes an issue due to the puddles and the gusty winds rule out flowing dresses or skirts," rues engineering student Rashi Agarwal. So, how do you navigate the puddles and unexpected showers, while looking your best all through?

Dress up 
The monsoons needn't be the time when you dress shabbily to college. Says stylist Arti Kochar, "The rainy season demands a more casual look. The emphasis is on no-fuss fashion and fresh colours."

"Bring out your brightest, funkiest outfits. If you're more conservative, give your outfit a pop of colour with an accessory that stands out," says fashion blogger Maria Gnomes, also a student at St Xavier's College. Steer clear of fulllength pants, instead, opt for knee-length dresses, capris, shorts or leggings. In denims, cropped ones are an option. "Avoid layered and flowy outfits," advises Kochar. Boys can opt for dark coloured pants, which do not look patchy when wet.

Denim may be a college student's safest bet, but not during the monsoons. "Wear materials that are water resistent and dry easily, such as nylon, chiffon, cotton blends or mixed fabrics. Lycra works well for dressy occassions. Avoid materials like suede, which are ruined easily with water," advices personal stylist Sana Shaikh.

Foot notes 
While the monsoons call for no-fuss footwear. Girls can choose from an array of funky waterproof sandals or slippers. Since colourful is the look of the season, one can look for unusual shades. Be careful of easily damaged materials such as suede and leather or lethal heels. "Boys can opt for standard rainwear boots/ closed shoes. Alternately, surfer slippers are very much in fashion and are available in interesting designs and colours," says Kochar.

Accessory wise 
Complement your outfit with the right accessories. Look for waterproof bags in interesting colours.

Jewellery is another tricky subject. Avoid materials that tend to tarnish, such as silver. Ceramics and beads are in, keeping with the eclectic vibe of the season. Keep your jewellery minimalistic – complete your ensemble with an interesting neckpiece or a pair of earrings.

Umbrellas and raincoats can serve as accessories too. Umbrellas today come in all shapes and styles – polkadotted, striped, multi-hued, angular, graphic, even transparent. Choose something that resonates your dressing style. For raincoats, it is best to stick to conventional hues like black and navy blue, so that it matches everything you wear.

Make-up mantra 
The best make-up advice for the monsoons is to keep it natural. Use only waterproof products. "Matte finish is appropriate for rainy days, as it prevents your face from looking oily," suggests make-up artiste Simi Nair. Refrain from using loud tones. Complicated hairstyles are a no-no. Instead, wear your hair short – bobs, pixie cuts and similar styles are fun and emphasise your features while being easy to maintain.

The monsoons needn't be a dampener on your style statement. Head to college, dressed wisely and you're sure to look just right, come rain or shine!



http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/fashion/trends/Monsoon-proof-your-wardrobe/articleshow/8861252.cms

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