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Photo: V. Ganesan

Be cool Indian motifs in pastels is as chilled out as it gets

Summers can be fun, especially for those who look on seasons as a chance to do a wardrobe overhaul. Bangalore-based designer Varsha Bhavnani says: “Summer is all about being comfortable and wearing clothes in breathable fabrics. Shirtdresses are big this season. Light, chiffon dresses with floral prints in A-line cuts is another option.

For a bit of drama one can opt for smart shirts with belts and accessories or printed chiffon tunics with minimum embellishments. For regular wear, very light or no embellishments are recommended.”

Varsha’s spring summer line boasts of a “Fusion of earthy traditional colours and prints, especially kalamkari and Indian prints with vegetable-dyed fabrics in western styles are making an outstanding entry this season.”

A peep into retailer Ekta Tandon’s wardrobe is an eye opener. Ekta prefers wearing white or beige linen trousers with a kimono or formal tops in light hues with platform heels or a pair of ballet pumps to work. an official environment.

For casual wear, she goes with a long skirt in chiffon or cotton, in pastel colours teamed with a trendy tee and flip flops. For a semi-formal occasion, Ekta goes with knee-length layered dresses in silk or satin for free-flowing outlook.

“Monographic prints, polka dots and black and white retro prints are my favourites during summer. Any semi-formal outfit can be teamed with a pair of wooden wedged shoes, a well-detailed clutch, a chic scarf and accessories like beaded neck pieces and big bangles in copper and bronze,” feels Ekta.

Ethnic chic is another summer option. “Try ethnic outfits in cotton or linen with bias cuts. Light embellishments or simple, western inspired embossed designs in pastel hues on kurtas adds colour,” says Varsha.

For streetwise fashions, look no further than your average collegians. College-going Nikita goes by the basics.

“Black and white cotton salwars are the ticket. A variety of kurtas in light hues with embossed prints or a well-designed hakoba kurta is the best. Sleeveless kurtas, with deep necklines and low backs add a touch of class.”

Reena Ramesh, owner of a hosiery store, urges those who prefer saris to go for “hosiery material for the petticoat rather than poplin or cotton.”

Varsha explains that though the colour palette does not restrict itself, forecasters have predicted pastels and earthy tones will feature prominently. “Colours like green, blue and pink, pure purple, fresh yellow, crystal white, neo red, lucid pink, dark shale, are some of the other colours that are hot this season”.

After learning the tricks that make your design stand apart, one must also maintain their summer collection with utmost care.

Though, the sun dries your clothes faster, but a little common sense and the right washing technique will not only keep your wardrobe clean, but will also add durability to the fabric.

Wash your clothes as you would wash any other fabric, except if it has any kind of embellishments, then a gentle hand wash is recommended.

If washing a branded outfit for the first time, then just follow the care instructions given on the individual garment. So if you want to re-define your fashion statement, come out in the sun and show off your opulent style.

LATIKA R. CHUGANEY

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