Whether you like it or not, it’s time to get your raincoats, gumboots and waterproof make-up out again. Yes, the rainy season is officially here, but don’t let the rains dampen your style. While a trend called gorpcore is picking up in the West, where celebrities such as Asap Rocky, Drake, Bella Hadid, Kylie and Kendall Jenner and Kim Kardashian are sporting things such as raincoats, puffer jackets, parkas, Velcro, bum bags, crocs etc., as a style statement, experts here tell us how you can sport rainwear stylishly.
Rapper Drake is known for wearing puffer jackets
“Monsoon is a good time to style yourself with trendy separates. Bring out your shorts, skirts, capris and gumboots. Trench coats are a must-have for both men and women,” says celebrity designer Archana Kochhar, who has worked with the likes of Karishma Kapoor, Shah Rukh Khan and Alia Bhatt.
It is important to choose the right fabric. Opt for cotton and nylon as they dry faster. In order to perk up, go for vibrant and colourful clothes with cheerful prints to beat the damp weather. “An umbrella is also one of the key style statements. Opt for umbrellas with a riot of colours and stand out from the boring bunch,” suggests Archana.
According to celebrity stylist Ami Patel, who is known for styling Alia Bhatt, yellow is the go-to colour. “There are many trendy raincoats, capes and puffer jackets out there that are very stylish and can be worn by men and women. Go for trousers that are soft and loose. Shoes are an important accessory this season — elevated slippers and rubber boots are in. Also, avoid accessories that are not water-proof,” says Ami.
Nautical prints, florals and neon colours are trending in menswear and womenswear. “Women can wear handloom saris and kurtas. Culottes and boyfriend jeans are totally in,” says stylist Ayesha A.K.
One must also avoid sporting transparent wear and instead go for a warm colour palette with pastels and prints in contrasting colours.
“For a day out, free flowing dresses, tanks, loose tees and short kurtis are great options. Ditch jeans and go for shorts and jackets instead,” advises designer Althea Krishna.
Make-up artist Emraan says it’s best to avoid creamy foundations
Waterproof your make-up:
Avoid layers of make-up and go for waterproof make-up. Apply a make-up primer to your face, as it’s good for heavy coverage. The primer will make your make-up stay on for long. Avoid using creamy foundations because they melt in humid weather. So make sure that there is no oil content in your make-up. Use loose powder to absorb all the excess oil and moisture. For the cheeks, apply a light-coloured powder blush. Apply a waterproof mascara for the eyelashes. Bright red berry lips, electric blue eyes, glitter and false lashes, chrome nails, voluminous curls and graphic coloured eyeliner are trendy,” says celebrity make-up artist Emraan, who has worked with Sania Mirza, Regina Cassandra and Kajal Aggarwal, among others.
