With weather watchers predicting a relatively warmer spell this winter, Unnati joshi speaks with fashion aficionados about the latest trends
Quilted jackets, trench coats, beanie caps and snuggly clothes is pretty much what comes to our minds when we think of winters. But this year’s winter is warmer and the fashion world is in a major state of flux. Many designers and brands are rethinking on winter trends.
Whether oversized or embroidered, whether an outrageous colour or revitalising the classics, it’s all about the details this winter.
Now is the time to revamp your wardrobe and to take the new trends and make them your own.
Go oversized
Standard representation of the female silhouette is an elegant, body-fitting line. Designers often go beyond the scope of this standard, and this season is not the exception. Coat with exaggerated shoulders, oversized and masculine jackets is the trend this season.
Impeccable fit has long been the mark of a well-dressed. But on runways, saggy outerwear has been blowing up. For brand Michael Kors oversized is the most recent for the winter 2016. From the runway to everyday street style, oversized tops, jackets and dresses are here to stay.
“As an unprecedented warm weather is sweeping the country, fashion trends are adapting by mixing summer favourites with winter essentials. A good look for casuals is distressed jeans with colourful socks and flats paired with an oversized jacket. For the festive look, a pair of fun juttis with palazzo saris and off shoulder blouses are a good look to carry” said laksheeta Govil, founder of a fashion brand.
Reinventing Classics
Shopping for new trends doesn’t mean we can’t still work the old ones in fresh ways.
Designer duo Rimple and Harpreet Narula told us, “With the slight nip in the air, it is time to layer up your separates and reinterpret the classics. Think trench coats paired with handloom saris or high-waist jamawar print skirts paired with a neutral body-suit. Reviving old indian embroidery techniques on light weight wool meshed with metal sequins or kantha/blanket-stitch quilting on cotton-mal are interesting techniques for creating a unique look this season.”
Brighten up
In order for you to express your true beauty, simply wearing your bright winter colours is not enough, the obvious way to create contrast is to pair very light colors with very dark colors.
“Winter always brings a lot of excitement with parties, celebrations, long weekends and a general feel of merriment. A light sweatshirt or dinner jacket with dark coloured denims are classic. Complete the look with a pair of lightweight, closed shoes. These are ideal for party hopping and yet have the feet covered from the cold. It’s always nice to add an element of fun — wear a bright colour to liven up your winter,” said Ninad Shah, Managing Partner with Native (India)
layer it up
Quilting has been showing up in all kinds of places lately, from tailored garments to knitwear. It’s a great way to add some warmth, texture, and depth to your look.
According to designer Donatella Versace, layering is the hymn for winter 2016. lavender turtle neck, a grey coat and a plum jacket is so Versace, hot and comfortable.
Celebrity designer Anil Tanna said, “I personally enjoy a play of layers; and it’s only in winter that we can do that. Opt for light layering with a fine quilted jacket or bandi over a shirt. An interesting textured scarf over something casual can also look great. No fur or animal skin though - it’s a big turn off when fashion goes savage.”
Hello bombers
There is something special about bomber jackets that we can’t quite put our finger on.
For the duo Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, an embroidered bomber paired with a scarf is statement for the season.
“You can’t deny yourself the sweater weather. Even though it doesn’t call for heavy knitwear, you can still flaunt in your light trench and silk bomber jackets. layering is the trick. layer light weight fabrics together to achieve the winter street style. We love muted and earthy tones for winter but nothing like a pop of color to get you through the grim winter mornings,” said founders of The Circus.
Sequins and blings
Valentino, Gucci and Dior sent knee-length dresses down their autumn/winter 2016 catwalks, making sequin the party hit of the season.
“There is going to be a lot of velvet, bling and dressing up this winter. This season is extremely romantic and very dressed up,” said fashion designer Anupamaa Dayal.
“For those who like to dress thoroughly, there are too many options irrespective of the weather since winters provide a more interesting opportunity to experiment with one’s party attire. With your favourite summer dress available in winter ready fabrics, there are just too many options to explore, instead of packing your summer slip dress, it could be layered with a knitted turtle neck. My absolute favourite is the super long sleeves which can be a fun piece of clothing when layered with metallics. Silhouettes with different heavy and light fabrics can be tried to balance the look well,” explained designer Amit Aggarwal.