Monsoon is an absolute favourite season for many people. While many love romanticising the cold, gloomy weather of grey skies, strong winds accompanied by the pitter-patter of the raindrops, the not-so-romantic, practical souls hate this particular season for the obvious reasons — waterlogging, muddy roads, and the sultry weather. However, not many have the privilege to spend the rainy days at home. They cannot avoid stepping out, braving the vagaries of nature and others will venture out simply to enjoy the rains. Keeping in mind trudging through stagnant rainwater on roads and the puddles, we got across to city-based fashion designers and stylists to get some tips on how one can sensibly revamp one’s monsoon wardrobe — remember looking fashionable while not getting your sartorial choices damp by the rains is an art to master this romantic season!
Bursting myths: Denims are your friends…
Fashion designer Sandip Jaiswal believes, “Season cannot be a barrier to your freedom of wardrobe choices. And monsoon can definitely not be a reason for you to turn away from your denim pants. Protect the ankles by wearing gumboots. Carrying an umbrella is always a good idea if you want to turn around your fashion game while keeping the rains at bay”.
As for accessories, Sandip believes, “Let them wear those G-Shock watches, and they are good to go. They don’t really need any accessory. But if they want to, water-resistant side sling bags will never go wrong.”
Let the ensemble do the talking…
Sandip says, “Six-pocket linen shorts with printed linen shirts with mandarin collars can be your outfit for the season, if you are heading out for a light day. Pick up transparent raincoats.”
Fashion designer Abhishek Dutta says, “ PVC bomber jackets and windcheater jackets will make a great choice for protection against the puddles of rain and can be your go-to fashion statement”.
Fashion stylist Davina Thacker has a slightly different take on this. “They will feel comfy and look charismatic in simple cotton tee paired with linen trousers. They can also wear chinos and washed-out denim shirts. It helps to choose cotton as this fabric helps the skin breathe. Guys can also consider linen and rayon fabric. Leather and jeans are not your friends this season.”
Is there any such thing as “men’s colour”?
Abhishek denies this concept exists at all. He believes we are living in an age of experimentation. He says, “These days we are looking at colours beyond the blacks and the browns. It is no news that men these days flaunt bright hues like canary yellow and orange. Bottle green would be a great option too.”
Wear your style quotient up your sleeve… we mean your feet…
Abhishek says leather is a big no-no. “Leather is not the choice you want to make during monsoon. Slip into high-ankle boots or waterproof sneakers in reds and yellows and all hues bright to reflect your inner energy.”
Davina adds, “Rubberized flip-flops and colourful crocs — men are spoilt for choice. The weather is very dull already. Be wise in the colours you choose. Bright colours like pink, yellow and orange will be the perfect picks”.
Apply your layering skills like a pro
Layering is also one aspect of men’s clothing, as far as the unpredictable weather is concerned. “Men can up their fashion game by opting for cropped or ankle-length raincoats in simple blue or grey. And if they are wearing hoodies and trenchcoats, they can opt for pastel shades inside (the clothes underneath the raincoat), it will be a wise idea to put on some loud colours outside. Finish off the look with a quirky umbrella. If you are inclined to wearing shirts, make sure you choose the right colour. Monochrome will look great, and even better will be rayon-blended checks. If you are wearing baggy trousers and chinos, a metal belt will complement them best,” says Davina.
Avoid making these mistakes…
Davina advises men to save themselves the embarrassment by “not carrying umbrellas in pockets. You do not want to appear clumsy.”
Avoid wearing slippers.
Be it shoes or jackets, stop seeing leather for these two months. You won’t lose much.
It’s better to avoid white, especially when it is raining. You may not be comfortable going around in a transparent look with mud stainson your shirt/tee.