Summer in style

It’s that time of the year. In the weeks to come, one thing is certain: the sunny side is expected to be (almost) always up, so make way for breezy fashion indulgence and shady shindigs. And, don’t forget to slather on some SPF while you’re at it! In keeping with how consumers are choosing ‘chic comfortable’ over fleeting fads, here are a few fashion experts who can help you unlock the cheat code for summer styling this season!

Comfort is key

Summer fashion has evolved over the years, but there’s one thing everyone can’t afford to not factor in — comfort. Hinting at how the ‘3 Cs’ will rule the roost this season, Radhika Chhabra, sourcing head, Jaypore, says, “The golden rule is to stick to natural, breathable fabric. As far as colours go, you can let your imagination run wild with pastels, bright and easy whites. Summer is a time for relaxation and renewal. It’s a great time to break away from the endless layers and have fun experimenting with cuts, lengths, drapes, and more.” The trick is to stick to natural fabrics and materials, Radhika avers. “Don’t let flowy garments engulf you!”

The choice of fabric and fit is important so you can breeze past the day with ease without getting bogged down with discomfort caused by heat and humidity. Speaking of which, Pallavi Barman, fashion expert, head marketing & operations, HRX by Hrithik Roshan, says, “A classic and well-fitted white vest and blue jeans with a broad belt and open footwear is sassy and trendy. Pretty floral summer dresses, flowy skirts with crop tops are feminine and gentle as dressier options. During the day, stick to cottons or lighter fabrics which don’t cling to your skin. Loose jeans are a rage this season and they make one look uber-stylish.”

Nothing compares to smart styling this season. Jay Lakhani, co-founder, Deepa Gurnani, elucidates, “Easy silhouettes with tonnes of accessories are the way forward for the season. But again, this summer, it is all about being bold — statement jewellery, hair accessories, oversized totes and fun sandals, all of this are totally in this season. Bag essentials: oversized bohemian-inspired totes with fringe! Tie & dye is making a huge comeback this summer and would be the perfect accent in a tote.”

A touch of ‘you’

Saging advice on ways to step up your personal style, he adds, “As long as you are comfortable with what you have on, you are styled correctly. Comfort comes first.  Stay true to your own style and learn to create your own trends.  Mix and match this summer! Accessories make each outfit complete.  Don’t be afraid to try new things this season.  Be bold and experiment with colour!”

Radhika, on the other hand, adds that one should invest in the right purchases when it comes to stocking up on summer staples. “Sunglasses, straight cotton kurtas, flowy skirts and dresses, loose pants and elegant open-toed footwear — these are a must-have this season.”

Vouching by similar lines, Dilip Kapur, president and founder of Hidesign says, “Go handsfree for summer holidays with fanny packs or belt bags that keep your essentials and travel documents safe. Light cotton and denims, comfortable sneakers and acetate sunglasses keep you stylish and protected.”

The perfect summer look

In terms of make-up, minimalism is key. “Wear light make-up, perhaps a light BB cream instead of a heavy base for an even skin tone which doesn’t wash off with sweat or become patchy and cakey due to sweat. I prefer hair pulled back in a neat ponytail or a top knot. Hydrate well and have lots of Vitamin C for good skin,” shares Pallavi Barman. Wrist bands in leather and metal are go-to accessories for spicing up the basic look.

Work out in style

When it comes to workout essentials, keeping it simple is best, suggest experts. Pallavi suggests, “Avoid layering in summer. Keep the bottoms loose. Having white in the wardrobe is delightful and brightens up the look.” She also suggests, “Cap is both a protective accessory as well as complements the athleisure look well. And when it comes to shoes, it’s sneakers all the way, but not without socks.”

Concluding how smart styling never fails, Radhika says, “While wearing a loose ensemble, team it up with a nice skinny belt to nip at the waist, mix and match colours, either keep the look monochrome with pops of colour, or go bold and experiment with different colours.”