The Style Handbook
Five fashion staples that define classic, cool and chic
1 Keep it simple
Black and white tees and blue denims are a classic that will never fade. You can’t go wrong with them. I love Alexander Wang for T shirts. In denims I love the fact that bootcuts and flares are back. They were in when I was in college and now they are back. They make everything look great and are flattering on most body types. Currently I am wearing my pair of Dries (Van Noten) nonstop. They are something I would wear everywhere unless it is for an evening party. I am not one of those people who believe in being super casual and going to a chic party.
1 Layering right
Speaking of chic parties, I love Rahul Mishra’s jackets. In the winters Mishra’s jackets look fabulous. An oversize jacket with beautiful embroidery is one of the most obvious failsafe options on such occasions. I turn to Mishra whenever I have to step out for the evening. His western wear also looks gorgeous. The cuts, the texturing are a class apart. No wonder Paris loves him.
Otherwise for this season, I love the
sheers we have in Bombaim especially Ikai. Amrich too does soft sheer fabrics that are perfect for the Indian weather. They have easy fits and are equally easy to dress up or down and wear them anywhere. For me, it’s all about cottons and sheers for the summers. Ikai, Amrich’s light clothing or Eka are perfect for this season. It’s not all about brands though. Sometimes it’s about what you pick up while shopping in the streets of Jaipur or an exhibition of handloom clothing. I picked up an Indegene jacket from Filter in Kalaghoda recently. It’s a lovely jacket and looks nice when styled with denims and a camisole.
3 Comfortable separates
Formal pants are another staple. These (Alexander) Mc Queen pants (in pic) are something I could wear all day. They fall well, do not crumple, go with almost anything and a re super comfortable. Other separates I like in this season are these cropped Kishmish pajamas that one could style with anything. Wear them with a camisole and an organza jacket or a basic chikankari kurta. This top by Bodice (in pic) is another separate that works for many occasions.
4 Jewellery is a safe bet
Even something as basic as studs should be enough to dress up an entire outfit; for example, I am wearing a ring from Ambir. My necklace is from another Jaipur brand, Dhora. I think this outfit would lose its essence without the jewellery; beautiful jewellery can lift and change an otherwise ordinary outfit.
5 Best foot forard
For shoes, I tend to go for international brands; I also shop online a lot. I love Balenciaga when it comes to shoes and a lot of niche Italian brands. For shoes I do believe comfort has to go hand in hand with style. A good pair of wedge heels are amazing for working around the day and being on your feet.