Monsoon can be a challenging time for those who want to dress chic while trying to keep themselves dry. Fashion experts share the essential guide to layering to help you navigate the erratic weather with ease
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Do you find yourself staring at your wardrobe and wondering what to wear on humid days when the rain is unpredictable? Whether it is your choice of fabric to footwear, paying a little attention goes a long way in preserving you favourite pieces and your look of the day.
How does one dress for erratic weather? Fret not. From outlining the distinct challenges of monsoon fashion, to delving into the monsoon-proof accessories, we’ve got fashion experts to help you navigate this monsoon with flair and comfort.
Decoding monsoon's fashion challenges: Sticky situations and styling woes
Aparna Badlani, stylist at Aza Fashions, perfectly articulates the unique dilemmas monsoon fashion presents:
1. Managing high humidity and sweat patches
In rainy conditions, humidity is perhaps the biggest style adversary. Sweat stains, sticky skin, and clinging clothing may all be humiliating, particularly after long workdays or outdoor activities.
2. Transparency of fabrics
While lightweight is fantastic, some fabrics, particularly whites and pastels, become translucent when wet, making them unsuitable for rainy days.
3. Length and fit troubles
Anything that touches the ground, such as palazzos, maxi dresses, or flared pants, could absorb filthy rainfall. In the same way, clothing that is too tight can feel oppressive in hot and muggy weather.
4. Drying time issues
Particularly in closets with inadequate ventilation, slow-drying textiles can retain moisture and cause mildew and musty odours.
5. Colour and mud stains
Careful colour selection is necessary for this season. Lighter hues are more susceptible to stains, and contact with soil or water can discolour fabric.
Five go-to fabrics for freshness: The monsoon wardrobe essentials
To combat these challenges, Badlani recommends a strategic approach to fabric selection:
Cotton blends
Cotton is a no-brainer as it is soft, breathable, and moisture-absorbing. However, when moist, it can cling in its pure form. Cotton-synthetic blends, on the other hand, function well and provide the same breathability but with quicker drying times.
Mulmul
A popular fabric in humid climates, this lightweight fabric is gentle to the touch and breathable. Additionally, it gives your regular outfits an airy feel without adding bulk.
Rayon/viscose
This semi-synthetic fabric is better at preventing water absorption than pure cotton, which makes it perfect for rainy days. It is perfect for workwear basics like shirts and straight-fitting pants because it doesn't wrinkle and dries fast.
Linen blends
Linen is a fantastic choice, particularly when combined with cotton or viscose. Although it naturally wicks away moisture and keeps the body cool, mixed versions of pure linen don't crease as much.
Lightweight chiffon/georgette
Flowy materials like chiffon or georgette are unexpectedly useful for occasion or celebration clothing. They work well for layered outfits and patterned silhouettes, and they dry more quickly than heavy silks.
The art of layering: Lightness, depth, and style
“Layering in humid weather is all about creating the illusion of depth without adding weight or trapping heat. The key lies in choosing the right fabrics and silhouettes,” poses designer and founder of her namesake brand, Ujala Azad. Layering in humidity seems counter-intuitive, but Azad shares creative ways to achieve depth without adding bulk:
Sheer power
Sheer materials like organza, chiffon, and mulmul are perfect because they add visual texture while feeling featherlight on the skin.
Sleeveless and open silhouettes
I often turn to sleeveless vests or open jackets, which instantly elevate an outfit without compromising breathability.
The underrated dupatta
Lightweight dupattas, especially in kota or soft cotton, are underrated heroes, you can just drape them like a cape or across both shoulders for an effortless layered look.
Breathable combinations
Sticking to breathable combinations, such as cotton on cotton or linen paired with mulmul, helps keep things cool.
Structured touches
To avoid a shapeless silhouette, belting a flowy layer can add structure without warmth.
Play with proportions
I also love playing with cape sleeves or throwing a cropped top over a longer kurta or dress; they add dimension and interest while still letting the skin breathe. With the right choices, you can layer smartly and stylishly, even in peak humidity.
Monsoon wardrobe care: Keeping your clothes fresh and intact
"Caring for clothes during the monsoon requires a little extra effort, but it’s so worth it to keep your wardrobe fresh and mildew-free. Beyond dressing, proper care is paramount," says Azad. She outlines essential tips to combat mildew and dampness:
Ensure complete dryness
My first rule is simple but crucial: never put anything back in the closet unless it’s completely dry, even if it means hanging it under a fan for an entire day. Moisture is the biggest enemy.
Traditional dampness absorbers
I also use camphor balls or neem leaves in the corners of my wardrobe; these old-school remedies work wonders to absorb dampness and keep insects away.
Breathable storage
For delicate garments, especially those with embroidery or handwork, I avoid plastic covers and instead wrap them in breathable cotton or muslin cloths. It protects the fabric while allowing air circulation.
Regular airing
I make it a point to air out clothes periodically, even if they haven’t been worn, just to keep everything smelling fresh.
Quick fix for mustiness
And if anything does start to feel musty, a quick steam or a few hours in soft, indirect sunlight usually does the trick. These little rituals go a long way in preserving the longevity and beauty of monsoon garments.
Accessorise smart: Monsoon-proof your style
The true elevation of an outfit happens when paired with the right accessories. This monsoon, don't let the weather dampen your accessory game. Azad shares her functional yet fashionable picks:
Bags
It is recommended to swap out leather bags for canvas or fabric ones, especially hand embroidered potlis or block printed totes with a waterproof lining. They still feel artisanal but won’t get ruined in the rain.
Jewellery
With jewellery, stick to oxidised silver or terracotta pieces since they hold up better in humidity and still have that earthy, handcrafted vibe. It is best to avoid anything gold plated or super delicate during this time.
Scarves and bandanas
A soft cotton scarf or a printed bandana always comes in handy too, whether it’s for the hair, around the neck, or even to wrap over your bag when it starts drizzling.
Footwear finesse: Step out in style (and safety!) this monsoon
Footwear is arguably the most crucial element in monsoon dressing. Badlani offers practical yet chic recommendations:
Here's our recommendation:
Rubber or PVC sandals: A monsoon must, rubber-soled sandals are waterproof and easy to clean. Contemporary styles are stylish and streetwise because of their raised soles, striking hues, and metallic details.
Platform flats or slides: These provide comfort and grip while raising you just enough to prevent splashing from puddles. For increased safety, look for anti-slip bases and textured soles.
Waterproof mules: When sprinting through rain, mules composed of coated or imitation leather are fashionable, breathable, and simple to put on and take off.
Clogs or jelly shoes: Gen Z has brought these oddball accessories back into vogue, fusing nostalgia with practicality. They are very simple to sanitise.
Shoes to avoid at all costs
Suede, velvet, or canvas shoes
These absorb water easily and can be damaged permanently.
Heels or stilettos
Slippery pavements and monsoon downpours are not the time to risk a twisted ankle.
Backless flats
While convenient, they can slide off easily or expose too much of the foot to dirty rainwater.
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