Indian summer is synonymous with cotton, and the humble fruit of the loom is the new cool for woke millenials. From ivory strappy cotton camis and linen trousers to bright tie-and-dye maxis and classic Chikankari tops and kurtas – cotton never fails to impress on any given occasion. Check out what fashion experts suggest for styling cotton outfits this season without spending a bomb on expensive clothing.
Creative comfort: Summer is the best time to style cool cotton dresses in pastel shades, statement prints, or accentuated sleeves with enamel or silver jewellery. Avoiding tight-fitted outfits and opt for loose silhouettes and go for comfortable cotton dresses with minimal statement accessories like Kolhapuri chappals or leather sandals.
Printed affair: Incorporating prints in athleisure or even mixing the two colours for a basic crop top and long tiered skirt combination is a great way to incorporate in your everyday sets. Sky /aqua blue is a colour that is as versatile as black so investing in a comfortable pair of blue-green floral prints and kurta sets that fit you well could go a long way.
Shades of cool: Summer wardrobes must include breezy shirt dresses made of silk, cotton, or linen. On a hot summer day, the silhouette emanates a sense of tranquility, is simple, and easy to reach out to. You can also add a formal touch by cinching it around the waist with a striking belt. A lot of cotton outfits can be styled with capes or scarves as well. It is important to invest in pieces that can help you create multiple looks as you transition from formal to casual vibe.
Breathe free: Light hues, white dresses, and button-down shirts reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them. Choose a sleeveless or loose-sleeved top. The idea with summer clothing is to allow as much airflow as possible. Consider sleeveless camis and off-shoulder or puff-sleeve shirts if you don’t want to go completely strapless. Button-ups with short sleeves are another solid option. Light chambray pieces are ideal for work; remember to go for simple designs rather than big prints. To create a stronger silhouette, combine the shirt dress with a sleeveless jacket or a shrug.
Mix and match: While the popular cotton handwoven saris are a summer staple, for those who love the Indo-Western fusion styles there are many innovative ways to layer cotton separates. Double layered mulmul suits are apt for the summer months, and even though they are double-layered, you will find it easy to breathe in them.
Indian wear: For Indian wear, I think the colour of positivity and happiness is yellow. A yellow scarf or a dupatta is perhaps one of the most versatile accessories to have when it comes to Indian wear. I think wearing a yellow dress or even a yellow kurta as a dress can instantly reinvigorate our spirit and give us the much-needed optimism to sail through hectic working hours. I love pairing a printed dupatta or stole in yellow with just a white Anarkali or a kurta made in a simple cut.
Easy peasy: Loose-fitting clothing is your best chance for staying cool in the sweltering heat. Keep in mind even the layer closest to your skin like a cotton skirt or a tank top should be loose enough to feel breezy. Cotton garments are a must for your travel wardrobe too and can be easily paired with jackets, shrugs, or any outer layer for new looks. Go for cropped tops, wide-leg slacks, loose shirts, giant blouses, roomy dresses and skirts.