Shades of nude, beige and khaki are haute favourites for Spring-Summer fashion runway internationally, and this year is no exception. Even in India, beige has always been a champion colour for its versatility and diversity. Most home grown Indian textiles (like muslin, chanderi, tussar,) are naturally beige or “kora” coloured and are just perfect for hot Indian summers.
Style with accessories: Although nude or beige shades are a safe bet for casual wear, styling it with a bit of difference can also make these hues standout on a red carpet or a fancy do. Designer Pranay Baidya says, “In my current SS19 line, we have generous use of nude and beige tones paired with pistachio greens, powder blue and summery peaches. For the summer, pair nude/beige linen tops with printed skirts or pants for a look which is easy yet fashion-forward. You may accessorise with dull gold or silver statement earrings.”
Neutrals or earthy colours are always soothing for eyes, and when you pair them with statement pieces in bold colours they stand out. Designer Yadvi Agarwal believes that neutrals colours make for a great option in summer. She says, “A silk shirt can be paired with khaki trousers and a nice heavy modern chunky metallic neckpiece, that makes the look complete and does not take away from the short. Silk eco dyed dresses in white or beige would go really well with a printed colourful impressionist scarf and adds that colour and punch for summer.”
Pair it with white: Combination of white and neutral shades work well with every skin tone, and everybody loves wearing these colours as they feel comfortable in their skin. Designer Mandeep Negi, remarks, “We use a lot of white, beige and neutral colours in our collections. I don’t have to think twice before wearing them whether they are in fashion or not. To make any statement you need to add colours to your outfit. You can do wonders with the right accessory. The whites do give you the comfort of wearing it, since you are not wearing anything out of the place, it should not get boring. You need to add a little spice to your outfit with your accessories which can be fuchsia, lime, silver, gold colours or even with bold bags, subtle colour scarves and belts.”
Try new combinations: From beige to a light hint of earthy brown and nudes, all these shades can be paired in a wide spectrum of tones evoking timelessness opines designer Varun Bahl. He suggests, “Pair khaki cotton culottes with an ivory/off white neck top for a breezy day. Or choose an ivory asymmetrical hem tunic, paired with ivory-pink scallop printed culottes in washed cotton just add to it your favourite black statement piece.” Whereas, designer duo Shyamal and Bhumika add to it and recommend, “Personalise these colours with rich, warm shades that pop out the entire look. One can go with basic khakhi dress/white basic kata with khakhi pants and pair it with bold and graphic accessories to stand out.”
