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This summer, let it sizzle

Stay irresistible this summer, with some help from fashionistas. Sangeetha Devi. K reports

DRESS CIRCLE Stay in sync with a casual yet luxurious look

The mercury has notched up a few degrees above normal all across the country. The early onset of summer not withstanding, weather analysts predict a harsher summer this time. It's about time to mull over your wardrobe to ensure that you are equipped to beat the heat. Don't be a fashion victim, but some help from fashion designers can help you look irresistible. Here's a sneak peak into summer fashion.

What's in?

Don't tuck away those skirts. They've become a way of life. But you can cut down on volume, though. "Ankle length skirts will make way for knee length and calf length skirts. Long, crushed cotton skirts will fade out. You'll find layered skirts, but in chiffons. Pick up A-line skirts as well. If they are embroidered, even better," says designer Varija Bajaj.

Cottons and denims are strange bedfellows but they will co-exist this summer. Cotton trousers and capris, blue jeans and denim capris are part of the season's wish list. "Cigarette pants and drainpipe trousers that you see on global ramps don't flatter Indian women. The classic blue jeans with a dressy top constitute a good eveningwear. There will be some vintage touch - like sepia shades, laces, and prom dresses," predicts designer Anand Kabra.

Colour code

Designer Sashikant Naidu recommends a mix of oriental and vintage styles. "There will be a revival of the 80's but not the retro. Exotic floral prints, bold horizontal bands of black and white, and stripes are in. Hemlines get shorter. Trousers are in for those who like the boyish look." He also suggests mulmul dresses, tunics and kaftans.

"Spring-summer 2006 will mark the return of femininity. Though summers essentially see lighter shades, there was an overdose of colours over the last two years. So we're literally crying out for neutral shades - whites, off whites, beiges, and caramel browns. There's one story of bright neons doing the rounds but I'm not convinced," says Anand.

Whites are synonymous with summers but you needn't go the Simi Garewal way. Varija suggests teaming up pastel outfits with brighter, large bags to add life to your ensemble. Mix and match accessories to suit the occasion. Glitter gets a much-needed break. Sport long, plain silver and gold earrings. "Raw, basic jewellery like handicraft jewellery also work well," adds Anand.

Man's world

Work wear or casual wear, low maintenance is the key. For everything official - pinstripes, cotton, cotton-lycra, silk and cotton blends, wrinkle free and satin finish fabrics are hot picks. To go casual, Sashikant suggests the classic John Abraham look - blue jeans with half-sleeved white tee.

"In men's wear too, there will be some remnants of the 80's, but again it's not retro. Multi-coloured designs, floral and geometrical prints are in and colours range from whites and off-whites to pinks, aqua blues and citrus shades. Prints on collars are also fine. The silhouette is loose but not baggy," he says. Speaking of accessories, you can't go wrong with ankle length shoes and aviator glasses. If you are adventurous, try colour hair highlights.

The last word: Keep it casual, yet luxurious. As Sashikant sums up, "Make yourself drool worthy. Fashion in Hyderabad, is mostly limited to the P3 circuit. It's time we saw it trickle down to the streets."

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