Cool cover-ups

It is a well-known fact that fashion repeats itself, only to evolve and get better than the last time. From palazzos and maxi dresses to flowing lengths and short dresses, this summer has seen an array of trends coming and going. However, fashion enthusiasts are never too tired to explore something new and fun; something that can pep up their wardrobe and catch some attention. The next in line is light jackets.

These jackets are season friendly and are doing rounds in the market. From zip-ups to ruffles and semi-formal patterns, fashionistas are seen sporting them with either a round neck striped vest or a striped jacket with solid hued T-shirts.

Designer Mamtaa Gupta feels, free flowing jackets are trending this season with bright colours setting the mood for the season.

She says, “We are concentrating on colours like yellow, orange, pink, ‘khaki’ and cream. These jackets are not lined and heavy yet structured and light weight. Materials and prints like ‘Chanderi’, cotton ‘Kalamkari’ and ‘Bagh prints’ are the ones we are using extensively.”

She highlights that printed and even reversible jackets are catching a lot of attention. “There are plain jackets with borders and those with prints on the inside and a solid colour outside, these can be worn either ways. They are trending too. These light weight jackets can turn out to be perfect work wear. One can sport a sleeveless jacket with pockets.” Mamtaa says that this time she is working around with the sleeves and using a lot of lace, ruffle and ruched sleeves.

Namrutha Natrajan, a student of Army Institute of Fashion and Design, opines that during summer floral jackets can do wonders. “These jackets can be sported for lunch or a brunch. A knee length floral jacket with a white short dress and a sling clutch will be the best outfit for a brunch. Similarly, a floral midi skirt teamed with a white camisole top and a pastel coloured jacket or a high waist denim paired with a striped tee and a denim jacket can give out a classic look,” she says.

Denim jackets are classics and are always going to be in fashion. But the styling has changed to something more interesting and draped silhouettes says designer Rimi Nayak.
Is the jacket trend is popular with men as well? She says, “Light jackets for men are surely in trend. Linen summer jackets are trending too. Apart from the regular jackets, draped jackets in various lengths and styles are trending this season for women. These jackets add a different look to the regular outfits when teamed with dresses, denims and trousers. Neutral shades are trending and preferably in solids.” 

The ones that are currently trending are the cool bomber jackets — they are casual, comfy and perfect for a shopping day highlights designer Hirika Jagani. “The leather jackets for example are ideal for casual occasions. They are classics and are great for  lunch or dates. Whereas, printed jackets are everybody’s favourite. It comes in many patterns, colours and choices and they are the most versatile piece to have in the wardrobe,” she details.

She points out that there are quirky bird prints, animal prints, geometric prints, insects print which are trending as they are different, fun and perfectly defines a young and creative individual.

“Shades of bright orange, red and yellow are the hot picks of the season. These colours are young, vivid and tends to brighten one’s mood. No matter what the season is, jackets are always in and people opt for sheer jackets which are light, breezy and stylish for summers,” she adds.