The change of season brings about a change in style, fits, textures, fabrics and colours that the fashion conscious men/women keep a tab on. Being crisp and well-constructed with clearly defined features are prerequisites for a good formal garment.
Trousers
“Trousers should fall easy on the hips and straight down. Avoid flares or tight trousers. They should have a sharp crease running down the front. Flat front trousers look slimming and neat. Fabrics with bold stripes and shine are party wear,” says menswear designer Rajvi Mohan. Classic colours like black, grey and midnight navy, cottons and linens with a washed feel qualify as formal wear.
Shoes
Brown and black is a look that never goes out of style. “A nice pair of shoes can make or break any outfit. It wouldn’t hurt to have a pair of formal shoes, a pair of loafers, and a pair of boots,” says Manjari Seth of Pavers England Footprints Limited. She adds, “The pointed tip shoes and the square tip shoes are worn with the tuxedo. With suits, stick to laced shoes.” In soles, the wedge heel (one platform) has crept into men’s shoe styles.
Shirts
“If a formal shirt is shiny and textured, it isn’t formal, rather sports or casual. A spread collar, called Windsor, is the most formal option other than a regular point collar shirt. Oxford button-downs (with corner point buttons) are casual wear,” says Mohan. Formal shirts for summers in pastels and light fresh colours look chic. One can accessorise the look with the use of ties, cufflinks and belts. “Slim cuts, narrow bottoms, clean and straight looks are trendy. And one can experiment with slim ties and baby collar shirts,” says Abhay Gupta of Blues Clothing Company.
Shirts
“If a formal shirt is shiny and textured, it isn’t formal, rather sports or casual. A spread collar, called Windsor, is the most formal option other than a regular point collar shirt. Oxford button-downs (with corner point buttons) are casual wear,” says Mohan. Formal shirts for summers in pastels and light fresh colours look chic. One can accessorise the look with the use of ties, cufflinks and belts. “Slim cuts, narrow bottoms, clean and straight looks are trendy. And one can experiment with slim ties and baby collar shirts,” says Abhay Gupta of Blues Clothing Company.
Women, pick the right white shirt
1. For tailored perfection, pick a shape that is not too loose, boxy or billowy.
2. If going for a white, collared shirt, take poplin or twill fabrics as they give structure and aren’t sheer.
3. Opt for a collar that isn’t too tall (it will rub against your neck) and stiff. Keep an eye for any pulling across the chest, gaps between the buttons or lift at the front hem.
4. Vertical darts below
the bust give the shirt a
tailored look, while horizontal darts that move towards
the side of the bust
enhance curves.