GET RAIN READY IN STYLE
SIX SIMPLE STYLE TIPS TO STAY FASHIONABLY DRY NO MATTER HOW MUCH IT POURS THIS MONSOON
While it would be great to bundle up and stay under the duvet on a rainy day, work (and life) demands that we must brave the wet weather and actually leave the house. That being said, a downpour or drizzle is no excuse to look unkempt or unstylish. Here are six simple tips to stay fashionably dry no matter how much it pours.
PUMP UP THE COLOUR
It’s easier to battle the grey skies with a colourful wardrobe. Yellow, poppy red, blue and green will keep you upbeat in stormy weather. “Happy colours like yellow, pink, orange and lime help uplift the mood as well. Now is the time to go all out and try those bright neon shades which you would never wear otherwise,” says Delhi-based designer Rajdeep Ranawat. It's best to avoid white.
KEEP IT SHORT
Loose and roomy silhouettes work best in the rains. Think palazzos, culottes, printed crop tops or capes with lacey feminine shorts. “If you’re not comfortable wearing shorts, then opt for some fun dhoti pants and accentuate the look by pairing a cotton tank top with an organza jacket. They not only look distinct but are also easy to dry off in case you get wet in the rains,” say designers Monica and Karishma of Jade. Playsuits are a particular favourite. “The season is favorable for some light layering as well—throw on a cape, bomber jacket or a sleeveless trench on a simple look,” suggests designer Varun Bahl.
GO LIGHT
Wearing body hugging, tight fitted outfits are a big no-no during the monsoon. Denim doesn’t dry easily and weighs you down. Avoid linen, as it tends to crush easily or shrink. “Natural and lightweight fabrics such as cotton, organza, nylon, silk, and synthetic blend are super comfortable and ideal for the monsoon months. Free-flowing silhouettes in a bold pattern is the classic trend du jour for monsoon that will never go out of style,” believe Sonam and Paras Modi of the label SVA.
S(TRESS) FREE
Rainy days don’t have to equal bad hair days. The trick is to pick a style that works with the rain. “During the monsoon, humidity levels are very high so your hair is guaranteed to frizz. Choose a good anti-frizz serum that will keep your hair moisturised without weighing your mane down. Whilst the hair is still wet, run an anti-frizz serum through with your fingers to lock in moisture, giving a healthy shine and keeping frizz at bay. A hot oil massage every weekend or twice a week will help keep your hair soft and manageable,” suggests UK-based hair maestro, Asgar Saboo. Tying your hair tight is not advised during the monsoon, as it leads to trapping of rainwater in your hair. Instead, go for a loose bun or loose side ponytail to protect your hair from humidity exposure and tangled mishaps, he adds.
GO ALL OUT AND ACCESSORISE
On grey days, having a basic black umbrella is a real downer.
A cute umbrella will not only perk you up but can also be a fabulous fashion accessory. There’s nothing like a bold umbrella to brighten up a dark and gloomy day. Show off your sweet side with a heartshaped umbrella or go mod and snap up a clear umbrella. You can also opt for nautical stripes, fairies or peacocks. Bright neon waterproof bags, raincoats and boots will add to the fun.
FOOTSY FASHION
Ditch your pretty suede or satin shoes in the rains. The best options are fun rain-boots for casual wear and flat ballerinas for a more formal look. Patent leather and plastic are great alternatives and there is no dearth of sandals and wedges available in a range of colours from bold solids to calm neutrals. Lastly, do ensure that your footwear is not only rainproof but also slip-resistant.
PUT YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD
It’s a good idea to keep things simple on rainy days. No woman looks good with mascara running down her face. “Skip the foundation and use a lightweight concealer to hide spots. A tinted moisturiser works better in this weather. Keep your eye make-up neutral with just a line of waterproof eyeliner or kohl. This will stay longer and not wear out. Try a coloured kohl or the graphic eyeliner for an evening out,” suggests celebrity makeup artist, Clint Fernandes. Finally, avoid wearing lip-gloss when it’s windy outside or you’ll end up with pieces of hair stuck to your lips all day long. “Stick to your favourite shades in matte and long-stay finishes,” he adds.