A to Z of summer style

Summers have arrived and so has the time to revamp your wardrobe. Rochelle Pinto suggests how to up your style quotient this season.

Summers have arrived and so has the time to revamp your wardrobe.

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Rochelle Pinto

suggests how to up your style quotient this season.

Aviators:

The grand daddy of all sunglasses, guys and girls alike look hot trotting in a pair of dark aviators.

Bandanas:

Get your boho vibe on with scarves and bandanas in bright florals or cartoon prints.

Cutouts:

Take a subtle approach to skin show by wearing stealthy cutouts in unexpected places. Hemlines, waists and sleeves lend themselves to some fancy cutwork

Drapes:

since it’s too hot to wear body-hugging fabrics, create different silhouettes by draping soft fabrics like chiffons and georgettes.

Epaulets:

The military look is back and epaulets are dressing up shirts, dresses.. even summer jackets like never before.

Fringe:

Have fun with those tassles whether you chose to wear them all over like in the 1920s flapper or as a trim on jeans and bags.

Gladiators:

Try them in practical flats or chunky cage heels, every fashionista is working this trend.

Hats:

A good excuse to have some fun, swing from the classic fedora to a wide-brimmed wonder.

Ikat:

A popular summer print, the ikat weave has regularly shown up in spring- summer collections from John Galliano to Anupama Dayal.

Junk jewellery:

Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but how about being recession-friendly and opting for some funky crystals or enamel instead.

Kaleidoscopic colours:

Dressing up for summer should be as riotous as the season itself. Try shades of citrus, grape, peach and electric blue if you’re brave enough.

Leggings:

Seen on every runway from Jason and Anshu to Gaurav Gupta, these come in handy when your mini-skirt is dangerously short.

Mousse:

For maximum volume and super soft waves, use a dollop of mousse before blowdrying.

Nail care:

Buff and file for maximum shine and paint them in bright shades of orange and pink. Don’t forget to moisturise regularly to keep the skin looking fresh.

Organic:

Why mistreat your skin with chemical products when you can opt for natural treatments? Buy organic grooming products and let Mother Nature work her magic.

Pyjamas:

An interesting trend started by Dolce and Gabbana was the outdoor pyjama. Pair a slinky camisole with skinny jeans.. do you dare?

Quirky:

This is the season that allows you to get hippie chic. Try feathered headbands, printed kaftans and hair extensions.. all paired with a confident attitude.

Retro:

An eternal trend, bring back the shoulder pads and distressed jeans, but add a modern edge with chunky heels and classy jewellery.

Studs:

The ’90s grunge is back with a bang. Studs can be used on belts, shoes or even on the pockets of your jeans.

Texturing:

Take a note from young designers like Nachiket Barve and Rimzim Dadu and create interesting textures on your clothes. Try pin-tucks, smocking and pleats for an uncomplicated look.

Unisex:

Flirt with the androgynous look by trying on the boyfriend’s jeans or a man’s shirt with subtle make-up. Balance the look with some delicate jewellery.

Nests:

The classic wife-beater makes a comeback. Layer it under a simple waistcoat or on top of a bright tank top. Steal one from your brother’s closet if you want the authentic look.

Waves:

Easy maintenance is your safest bet in the summer. Just scrunch up your hair’s natural waves and let your inner diva shine through.

X-rated:

Scared of slipping into a bikini or a mini-skirt? It’s time to put your insecurities behind you. Dare to bare with plunging backs or a stealthy slit and watch all eyes turn towards you.

Yoga:

For a perfectly balanced mind and body, turn to what stars like Kareena Kapoor and Madonna swear by. Don’t forget your surya namaskar..

Zippers:

For that punk edge, let the zippers on your clothes speak as accessories. Have them run across your dress bondage-style or create a thigh-high slit.