How To Dress During The Monsoon Season
Monsoon.
The word brings into mind relentless downpours, chilly winds and muddy streets, and, of course, heartwarming moments and memories ~ like being the silent observer enjoying a cuppa chai by the road or engaging in another golgappa eating competition with your cousin. I sure miss the sights and sounds of the streets; the monochromatic journey often streaked with the right balance of colour… Leaves me wondering when I can experience the rush once again!
“In difficult times, fashion is always outrageous,” said a famous Italian fashion designer and this is, without doubt, one of the most difficult times we’ve experienced in a while. Although monsoon dressing can be quite an onerous task, add to this the uncertainties caused by this pandemic which has left us with no clue as to when our lives will go back to the normal we know and are used to. But that’s no reason to not keep your fashion arsenals loaded and ready to go for who knows what tomorrow brings?
So, here are some ideas to lighten your burden and help you rock your monsoon fashion trends game!
Comfy, Classic Cotton
Somebody once called cotton “a wool exceeding in beauty and goodness that of sheep” and I agree; cotton is the perfect fabric for every season and occasion. Whatever the era, whichever culture and land, whatever the occasion {a casual coffee date or an elegant soirée}, nothing can impart the refined aesthetics that cotton can. The perfect fabric candidate, it is not only comfortable but also versatile, beautifully textured, and dries quickly which gives it an added advantage as monsoon wear. And since the monsoons call for a wide selection of timeless separates that fit well into the modern woman’s closet {including dresses and skirts with a shorter hem}, cotton makes for the most practical monsoon choice.
Of course, what’s a good fabric if not moulded into the perfect silhouette? It’s like watching an evening downpour without hot pakoras or samosas to accompany… While I personally think of cotton as essentially a blank canvas that lends so much to one’s style aesthetic and am all for maximalist, all-out detailing with a modest silhouette ~ I urge you to go on and add to your seasonal wardrobe some brightly coloured cotton separates that bring out your personality and help you take monsoon head on!
Coordinate in Style
In desperate need of accessories that not only protect but do so with style? Worry not, for raincoats have become relics of the past… waterproof jackets, hoodies and trench coats in every colour and silhouette are the solution to pretty much every fashion emergency. And, of course, to shield you against the wind and unrelenting downpour!
Bedizen a simple asymmetrical skirt with an exquisitely embroidered sweatshirt to up the chic factor and feel like the princess of your own story. Or pair a flare-sleeved hoodie with your favourite midi skirt or cotton culottes for a perfect go-to casual look. Or combine a trendy trench coat with a wrap dress in a mixed palette, for wouldn’t that be the perfect outfit as you twirl around under a thespian sky?
Now, do I need to say that fashion during this cold season of heavy downpours also calls for the utilitarian umbrella. But are you still holding on to the classic black? It’s time then, to look beyond and explore the vibrant world of colours + the possibilities that emerge ~ because umbrellas and monsoon fashion trends are a match made in heaven! Go ahead and experiment with interesting hues and patterns, lace and cute graphics and up your umbrella game to the next level!
Brighten your Days
Maybe a bit of colour is just what we need to brighten the cold and dull monsoon days. A collection of monochromes in a vibrant palette is the need of the hour, or rather, the season. And for the ultimate in understated luxury, opt for one of the many block-print patterns that India boasts of, from the intricate Kalamkari to natural-dyed Dabu-print, you’ll find something for every mood.
For those of you looking for a pop-out colour ~ be a little sun, yourself, in a bright yellow top paired with a neutral blush bottom. Or wear an elegant teal, a foolproof shade for pretty much everyone. From funky fuchsia and ravishing reds to cornflower blues and lemon yellows, pick your favourite and pair it with neutral shades like beiges and greys.
Makeup? No Makeup
With nude lipsticks and muted blushes, ‘no makeup’ looks are the new über cool. Less is more but if you feel like it, feel free to sport bold lips or voluminous eyelashes to uplift your mood while keeping the rest simple. And, of course, do not forget to use waterproof makeup to make sure you look great when you return after an evening walk in the drizzle. Keep up the simple but chic look with a simple ponytail at the nape for an elegant and formal look or a high pony for those casual outings.
On a side note: Some food for thought this monsoon is to consider #sustainablefashion. Design houses and other industries in fashion are beginning to integrate recyclable materials into their collections; i.e. making use of recycled products to construct fashionable clothing & accessories, thereby preserving the environment.
To conclude: Ultimately, monsoon is all about freshness and fun, and #monsoonfashion is all about staying elegant and simple, while not sacrificing style for comfort. The best way to go about it would be to stock your wardrobe with easy to pair separates in vibrant hues and practical yet stylish waterproof accessories with minimalistic makeup and hairdos.
Be it the perils of a pandemic or the harshness of the season, life goes on and brings with it hundreds of beautiful moments and memories, from romantic candlelit dinners to that important business meeting to your Saturday night hangout with besties… Be prepared for whatever life may bring your way with the perfect outfit up your sleeve! And, don’t forget to enjoy that sweet smell of damp earth while you’re at it…
What are your thoughts on these monsoon fashion trends? And, what will be your monsoon outfit of choice this year? Share with me in the comments below!