THE FUNCTIONAL FASHION

Utilitarian chic dressing is making its way to the streets. Taking cue from our Bollywood divas, experts give a low-down on how to incorporate this trend in your wardrobe

Be it Sonam Kapoor or Priyanka Chopra, the utilitarian chic dressing has lately been embraced by Bollywood beauties. A revamped version of oversized cargo pockets and boxy silhouettes, Utilitarian, is one of the major fashion trends to look forward to. “It requires minimal styling effort. The key to utilitarian chic dressing is balancing oversized proportions with tailored pieces, and complementing sporty looks with feminine silhouettes [and materials] that you can tuck in or layer smoothly,” says stylist Ekta Shah.

“These silhouettes work well for any body type,” says fashion designer Gabriella Demetriades, adding, “If it’s not something you have tried before, start with a fitted tank and an oversized pair of cargos. Mix it up, maybe with a slip dress and an oversized boxy military jacket. It’s a style that’s trending now, but many design houses have been doing this for years.

In case one wants to go for this look for a glamorous night out, the best way would be to pair a sequin top or a top in a luxurious fabric with pants that are olive, tan or brown with zipper detailing which is military inspired. “International brands usually have jackets and dresses that one can mix and match. You have to look at one military inspired piece of clothing and work around it. Look for military green jackets, combat boots, jumpsuits with a drawstring, striped T-shirts, vests, and suede dresses,” says stylist Nidhi Jeswani.

The colours of the utilitarian look can be rather dull on their own — olive, navy, camel, taupe, black — so the look needs to be elevated with a touch of bright colour or a big, fun pattern thrown in such as stripes, suggests Jeswani. And since these silhouettes are considered masculine most of the time, Shah shares that one can embrace girlish accents with delicate jewellery and French scarves to enhance the look.

International brands usually have jackets and dresses that one can mix and match. You have to look at one military inspired piece of clothing and work around it. NIDHI JESWANI, STYLIST

PHOTO:YOGEN SHAH Sonam Kapoor rocks the utilitarian style in her airport look. The key to this style is to balance the oversized outfits with minimal accessories so that it doesn’t look boring

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES