Latex, the latest craze
Trust Kim Kardashian West to break the internet in her tight-as-a-leotard PVC ensemble. The reality
TV star rocked the hell out of three of Balmain’s fresh-offthe-runway latex numbers in striking shades of brown-caramel, cognac and cappuccino early this week in Paris. The pronounced sleeves doubled up as gloves and she even tied her sideparted ponytail with the PVC material of her fetish-inspired outfit. Designer Shane Peacock applauds Kim for opting for this earthy colour palette. “As a designer, I have always liked spandex. I appreciate icons like Kim, who are always innovative in their dressing, which makes every outing such a talking point. Having said that, PVC is just a fad and not for everyone,” says Shane.
Kim’s sister Kourtney, too, succumbed to the latex lust and wore a top-to-bottom bodycon look as she strutted down Parisian streets. Unapologetically shiny, and exuding an unmistakable bondage vibe, latex pants have made a comeback like never before with the likes of Saint Laurent reinterpreting them for Fall Winter 2020. However, it doesn’t get a thumbs up from all style watchers. Stylist Eshaa Amiin sees latex trousers as rather tricky. “A plastic trench coat or a vinyl footwear works well, but skinny latex bottoms are a big no for me. The fit has to be comfortable as our weather doesn’t permit these,” says Eshaa.
Back home, designers like Monisha Jaising have toyed with vinyl leggings teaming them with Baroque print tops. Always opting for edgy pieces, actor Ranveer Singh wore a pair in latex at the U2 concert he attended and a few weeks ago, Shraddha Kapoor was spotted in another one. Designer Pria Kataaria Puri sees it as an extension of the leather trend which has been major over the last few seasons. “I see it as high power sexual dressing associated with S&M. I’d love it wear it personally and I don’t mind wearing a bralette or a blazer in latex. However, it’s difficult to mix it in your classic closet. All in all, it’s a sexy, fun look,” says Pria.
Let’s see how many Bollywood actors take style cues from Kim by embracing the head-to-toe latex in weeks to come.