Destroyed sweaters, frayed hems, baggiest pants, dusty tees, exposed seams and so much oversizing that one has to look for you in your clothes – Call it shabby chic, call it sloppy dressing, but apparently, these deconstructed looks are the new normal! Here’s how to look effortless and elevated ala the Olsen twins in this trend that has haute written all over.
According to Bengaluru-based fashion designer, Runa Ray, this has a long history and the term ‘deconstruction’ has been used to describe the rebellion against traditional forms in art. “Amy Spindler announced the trend as a rebellion against fashion’s heritage. Elements of deconstruction include vintage linings sewn on the outside of clothes, exposed zippers and seams. Basically, the garments call attention to the mechanics of production, they strip away the aesthetic illusion associated with clothes to reveal the forms of construction that lay beneath,” explains the designer who draws inspiration from this aesthetic and has gone on to showcase her works at the New York Fashion Week.
Celine, Tory Burch and Victoria Bechkam have prided on it this season. And of course, nobody does cozy-cool quite like Stella McCartney. Homegrown designers like Sohaya Mishra, Sonal Verma and Savio Jon took meticulous notes in their recent collections. “The overlooked details are what our minds are noticing now. Sometimes what may seem like odd, misshapen or awkward may be beautiful in its own identity,” says city-based designer Priyanka Ella Lorena Lama whose interesting silhouettes made of single fabric blocks are championed by Sonam Kapoor, for starters. Why are people intrigued by this trend? “Its nonchalant nature in a good way – it’s easy, unbiased and sometimes genderless,” notes the brains behind Pella.
Wearing it can be tricky, but like always, we’ve got you covered. “Since it’s highly vintage and the pieces look like they have been through a story themselves, it’s all about layering delicate necklaces. No chunky, high-shine pieces. Pair them with loafers or flip flops,” suggests Runa. Since sizing up has caught our fancy, celebrity stylist, Nishara Kiran emphasises on balance. “When the top is bulky, opt for slimmer fitted tights, stockings or trousers. If you choose to wear bulky bottoms like balloon skirts, flared palazzo pants, or bermuda shorts, keep the top fitted,” she suggests. If oversizing is your thing, opt from boyfriend shirts, buffalo plaid ponchos, big sweaters and jackets, slouchy t-shirts, oversized cardigans, and blazers. “Big and long denim vests are a must have. In fact, oversized men’s coats are the next big thing. Chanel, Michael Kors and Christopher Kane created interesting closures in neutral and dark shades for this year’s runway collection. To add a little shape and structure to the garment, accessorising with a belt or tucking the top in would do the job. Petite women should stay away from oversized bottoms and instead vouch for bigger tops. Larger women must not pick anything too wide, as this will work against them. With oversized clothes, less is more. Keeping footwear simple and not going over the top, with chunky and grungy boots, will enhance the silhouettes of the attire,” adds Nishara.
