Designer Masaba Gupta on why shorts are your best friend this monsoon

Is there anything more comfortable during the monsoon than shorts? Designer Masaba Gupta helps find the right pair

Is there anything more comfortable during the monsoon than shorts? Designer Masaba Gupta helps find the right pair

Anushka Sharma in a pair of shorts(Photo courtesy: Jatin Kampani)

There’s something to be said about less being more in this wet weather. Bring out the ankle-length pants, flared A-line leggings, and culottes. But also bring out the shorts. They’re not meant only for the summer.

Read: Designer Masaba Gupta’s guide to surviving the last few days of summer

Many women I know have reservations about wearing shorts, what with the common notion that you need to have the perfect legs to carry them off. But I strongly believe that women should wear their clothes and not let their clothes wear them. Don’t let shorts be your nemesis — they are amazingly comfortable an indispensable part of any wardrobe.

A still from the film Jodi Breakers where Bipasha Basu is clad in shorts

However, shorts are slightly tricky to shop for. The key is getting the length right. Too short and they’ll ride up your legs, and look unsightly. Too long and, well, it’s just not chic.

Pick the right pair for your body — focus on areas you want to elongate and accentuate. Mid-length is middle ground — slimming and universally flattering. Women on the shorter side, opt for a shorter length as it gives the illusion of longer legs. Shorts that sit at your hip too, give the illusion of a longer torso.

Once you zero in on the length, look for sweat-proof and waterproof materials. Avoid fabrics like denim or corduroy as they get heavy if soaked, and will take longer to dry. Also steer clear of white shorts or any fabric that has the tendency to become transparent.

Most of us don’t really pay any attention to the pockets. But I’ll let you in on a hack— opt for shorts with pockets that are deep set.

Katrina Kaif teams her short with a tie-up blouse and boots (Photo courtesy/Jatin Kampani )

Else, whatever you stash in there is bound to fall out. When it comes to styling, you can team your shorts with smart shirts, crop tops or tie-up blouses. They will look sophisticated and sexy,. For a more casual look, opt for sweatshirts. Be sure to invest in a pair of vintage high-waist shorts — they are classy and timeless. If you’re someone who’s high on confidence, sailor style shorts are the way to go.

If you want to spruce things up a bit, why not experiment with tassel or fringe belts with a pop of colour? It’ll add some life into the ensemble.

Also, milk the fact that athleisure is in vogue right now. Tons of sports brands have pop colour gym/sport shorts. There has never been a better time to wear active wear outside of the gym.

Whichever pair you do choose, remember to carry them with confidence. The point of wearing a pair of shorts is to feel comfortable and have fun — so ahead and get your shorts on.

Gupta is a leading fashion designer. She tweets as @MasabaG