Rainy Clothes See Winds Of Change
Come rain or sunshine, here are five easy hacks to make ethnic wear monsoon-friendly this year
When the monsoons hit, it is no joke — outfits get killed, make-up goes rogue. Your umbrella won't be the only thing doing the heavy lifting—your wardrobe needs some smart styling too.
For ethnic lovers the rainy season brings in an age-old dilemma: how to put a look together without getting soggy sopping wet in the rain. The good news?
Your favourite kurtas, sarees, and salwars don’t have to hibernate till drier days. With some fabric smarts, hemline hacks, and accessory upgrades, ethnic wear can be your best monsoon lookbook.
THE FABRIC FIX
Some fabrics and rain are just not meant to mix with rain. Silk, georgette, and velvet? Beautiful, yes. Rain-friendly? Absolutely not. “Your safest bet in the monsoon is blended cotton, crepe, or viscose rayon,” says designer Mansi Bhatia. “They dry faster and don’t hold onto water stains like silks do. Plus, they’re lightweight, so if you do get a little drenched, you won’t be carrying an extra two kilos on your shoulders.” Also, avoid clingy synthetics. They might seem rain-proof, but they can trap sweat and make you feel sticky. Think light, airy, and quick-dry.
CROP IT LIKE IT’S HOT
Dragging a kurta or saree pallu through murky water is not a vibe. Monsoon ethnic dressing is all about elevated hemlines—literally. “Go for calf-length kurtas or midi anarkalis with cigarette pants or culottes,” suggests celebrity stylist Ritu Khatri. “If you’re wearing a saree, drape it a few inches higher than usual and use a firm petticoat that stays in place.”
Pre-stitched sarees and saree pants are also monsoon gold—they offer the look without the fuss of constant readjusting in wet weather.
DITCH THE DUPATTA
Let’s be honest: A long dupatta in the monsoon is just a sponge with embroidery. Unless it’s for a formal occasion, skip the dupatta altogether or opt for a sleek stole that’s easy to tuck and carry. “Try a jacket-style kurta with printed borders or embroidery to replace dupatta detailing,” says Mansi. “Or go for ethnic co-ord sets and kaftan tops that don’t need any layering.” If you must have one, go for lightweight, water-resistant fabrics like chanderi or rayon blends and keep it short and manageable.
NO LEATHER, NO SLIPS
Say goodbye to your favourite leather juttis or mojaris during monsoon— they’re not just delicate, they’re a slip hazard. “Rubbersoled sandals, PVC kolhapuris, or floaters in neutral tones are your best bet,” advises stylist Ritu. “They’re washable, grippy, and don’t absorb water.”
Keep a pair of stylish foldable slippers in your bag for emergency swaps. And whatever you do,avoid anything suede or velvet unless you enjoy unexpected water art.
PRINTS, LAYERS, RAIN-READY BAGS
Monsoon is not the time for whites or pastels unless you enjoy surprise splashes and transparent regrets. Dark, bold prints and busy patterns can camouflage rain spots and stains. Layer smartly too—opt for inner slips made of quickdry fabric. A half-slip or inner shorts under skirts and sarees can keep you feeling dry and secure. And don’t forget your bag, “Invest in a small crossbody or sling in faux leather or coated canvas that won’t get ruined in a d ow n p o u r, ” says Neena Gupta, a stylist. Bonus if it fits a tiny umbrella or foldable rain poncho. Monsoon may be messy, but your style doesn’t have to be. With a little wardrobe tweaking and weather wisdom, your ethnic wear can shine— even through the drizzle.
