Lycra to culottes: Masaba Gupta on monsoon fashion must haves

Don’t let the weather rain on your parade. Designer Masaba Gupta on how to not let the monsoon limit your fashion options

I’m a fashion designer. I create clothes that make you look suave. It goes without saying that I strongly assert the virtue of looking chic. But having said that, it is also my belief that when it comes to your monsoon wardrobe, being comfortable and keeping dry should rank alongside being classy.

Monsoon is the perfect time to bring out those ’50s-inspired pop hues — bright orange, red, yellow, pink and blue(Photo: Shutterstock)

As the rains drench the city in delight and give us much-needed relief from the heat, they also bring mucky roads, wet feet, and a chaotic ordeal with public transport. So, if you are worrying about how the monsoon is going to dampen your style — from frizzy hair to not being able to wear your favorite heels — these tips should help you conquer your monsoon woes.

First, I must stress on the fact that rain gear/wear should be functional, breathable, comfortable and stylish. In that order. Now is the perfect time to bring out those ’50s-inspired pop hues — bright orange, red, yellow, pink and blue — to counter the dull grey weather. Wear light-blended fabrics such as lycra or polyester as they are wrinkle-free and easy to wash and dry. Mul and silks (between 40-60gm ) are a good bet too.

We’re also in luck as this fashion season, minimalism is all the rage. More excuses to keep it easy and light. Anything that’s tight is a strict no-no. Stick to bottoms in dark shades, but steer clear of denim and corduroys — they soak up the water. Your ideal go-to bottoms should include culottes, calf-length trousers, flared A-line skirts, leggings in dark shades and ankle-length pants. Wear palazzos and white bottoms at your own risk.

Invest in a great pair of gum boots (Photo: istock)

During the monsoon, do away with leather shoes. Instead, opt for colourful ballerina flats, jelly shoes, flip-flops, floaters or even crocs. Always make sure to get sturdy, water-resistant footwear with a good grip so that they are slip-resistant.

Invest in a great pair of gum boots. People usually look at them as more fashion-oriented footwear as opposed to something you can wear to office. But you can always opt for solid coloured ones rather than the printed variety. Trust me, they are a savior in the monsoon. Pair these with trench coats or jackets. Even better if they are mid-thigh length or reach your knees like a classic trench.

The damp atmosphere is also likely to make your hair frizzy. So, tie them up in a neat bun or a pony tail. Hairstyles that involve hot blow drying, curling or straightening irons are a bad idea as they tend to mess up the minute your hair comes in contact with moisture. Neat buns or braids are a sensible and stylish way to tame those locks.

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There is also the added concern that the humidity will wash down your make-up in a matter of minutes. So, stick to a neutral base and moisturised lips. Less is truly more when it comes to make-up. An alternative to waterproof mascara is to take some vaseline and curl your lashes with it. For your face,use clean tones in browns, nudes or coffee. Super matte lip colours like peach, raspberry, and watermelon are great. Essentially, stay away from shades that are too harsh and messy to clean off. Pick one that’s nude with a cream sheen or total matte.

Also, avoid leather and cloth bags since they tend to get soggy and breed fungus when wet. Instead, keep your possessions safe and dry in a trendy bag made of waterproof material or a tote.

Gupta is a leading fashion designer. She tweets as @MasabaG