By Vaishali Kolpe Sabherwal
Think cloudy skies and pregnant clouds ready to burst into rain, followed by lush greenery and a heady scent of petrichor as the earth gets drenched in the downpour. Aren’t the monsoons magical? It’s hard to deny the calming sound of rain, as it falls on the trees, hits against your window panes or forms tiny rivulets on the road outside.
Sounds dreamy enough? Well, unfortunately, though, it’s the roads and the humidity that are the real dampener here (pun intended). The downside to unpredictable rains is that you have to contend with wet and muddy walkways, roadside puddles, humidity, damp clothes and shoes that don’t necessarily spell “trendy”. But then, what about that fancy luncheon invite you got? Or time out with family? You’d still want to look your best, right? The rain notwithstanding. So don’t hang up your style just yet. Here are several options to keep that style quotient of yours going strong, come rain or shine.
Check out our ultimate guide to being fashionably wet, chic and smart while taking on the monsoons in style.
Stop at Short
Long flowy dresses or wide pants are flattering for sure, but they’re the absolute worst when you need to step out when it’s raining. Go for knee-length or midi ensemble options — culottes, skorts, rompers or short dresses. They’re easy, breezy and ideal while navigating wet, puddle-filled roads or slippery stairs. They’re also really quick to dry.
Pro Tip: Try a flattering A-line or wrap dress in quick-dry fabric that offers movement and breathability while channelling the diva within you.
Choose the Right Fabric (Very Important)
This is certainly not the time for denims, heavy cottons or linen. They get soggy the moment they absorb water, not to mention smelly. Instead, go for synthetics (aah, the things we have to do for style) like polyester, Lycra, nylon blends or rayon. These dry real quick and will not cling to your body when wet.
Activewear is another sure-shot style to keep you rain-proof. Sport trendy vests paired with leggings, and look like you just walked out of a fitness sesh, or heading to one. You’d be surprised at how many people do that in the name of fashion. Look out for great deals at Nike or Adidas stores near you, or if you’re travelling abroad, then you’d love the leggings and signature jacket from Lululemon.
Pro Tip: Wear light-weight printed co-ords, or flowy jumpsuits and playsuits in synthetic blends. You can find plenty of these in Zara or H&M. Style the look with some fun accessories, and you’re good to go!
Fight that Flood with this Footwear
Stow away the leather boots, sandals or your favourite pair of suede shoes in clean shoe bags. Now’s the time to bring out those monsoon shoes made of rubber, PVC and other waterproof styles. How to make it stylish, you ask? Well, there are platform Crocs, Jelly Shoes or even ankle-length rain boots. These are back in vogue and are available in many shades to suit your look.
Pro Tip: Choose fun colours, or pick ones with translucent soles. Quirky footwear can elevate the most dreary of days, not to mention your mood!
Layer it Right with the Monsoon Jacket
Oftentimes, unexpected gusts of cool winds can leave you feeling chilly. Always make sure to carry a poncho, windbreaker or a trench-style raincoat handy. Holographic, printed and transparent raincoats are clearly having their moment in the rain right now. What’s more, you can show off your dressed-to-kill look underneath!
Pro Tip: Create a flattering look by cinching your raincoat at the waist with a stylish belt and step out looking like a million bucks.
Accessorize Smartly
Wear functional accessories and keep it to a minimum. In this season, less is better. Ditch the open totes and your precious designer leather bags. Instead, carry water-resistant tote bags, cross-body slings that hug you tight, or waterproof backpacks with protective flaps that cover well. One can get mini folding umbrellas, available easily on Amazon, in varied colours and styles that fit into the tiniest corner of your bag.
Pro Tip: Wear a bucket hat that conveniently doubles up as a weather shield and a fashion statement. Carry umbrellas in bright colours or with funky prints. These not only help liven up dull, grey days but also look amazing in your Instagram pics.
Beauty That Stays Flawless
Now, monsoon glam is a challenge of its own. What with the humidity causing makeup to run down your cheeks, and skin that appears oily all the time. Eyeliner that spreads, causing panda eyes. Here’s what you can do to get a look that slays while it stays-
~ Skip using heavy layers of makeup. Instead, remove excess oil with a good face wash.
~ Use a water-based moisturiser and then start with a mattifying primer, followed by a waterproof foundation or BB cream to keep things locked in.
~ Choose cream-based blushes and eyeshadows to avoid streaking.
~ Always use a gel or waterproof eyeliner that stays as long as you want it to.
~ Go for light, glossy lipsticks or lip oils to look dewy-fresh all day.
~ Always remember to use a setting spray with a matt finish to combat any humid weather.
The idea is to have a fresh, scrubbed look that stays on from showers to a sundowner.
A Tiny Drizzle of Advice
Do not let the rainfall dampen your style spirit. Bask in the season and be open to experimenting with statement prints, bold colours, and quirky accessories. Make puddles your runways, and the clouds, your backdrop. All you need is a positive spirit and the gumption to be fashionably wet while owning your look.
