Retro meets Bohemia
Now is the right time to pull out all your vintage clothing and team it up with a modern version for that perfect blend of mix and match.
Sartorially, we're in a phase where the concept of 'mix and match' is reigning supreme. Modern-day ensembles with a touch of vintage is all over (In a good way, of course), and is clearly having a major fashion moment. So, chin up and take things up a notch by infusing retro and Bohemia with a hint of casual chic. Need assistance to get it right without going over the top? Popular names from the city's fashion fraternity lay down the rules. Take note!
“It’s a health mix that's making all the noise right now in the fashion scene. Oversized blazers are back, and throwing them over a well-fitted velvet outfit or pairing a crisp white dress shirt with a flared skirt are certainly winning combinations. While I’m all for playing around with modern and streaks of vintage; going minimal is the key to getting it right,” begins Aswathi Balakrishnan, a fashion influencer.
Enthusing the need to keep fabrics and colour combinations in mind while putting together outfits, she adds, “Velvet is a very challenging fabric. You need to play with caution as the material is literally 'out there'. If you’re wearing a velvet bottom wear, stick to solid colours. If you're a tad experimental, make peace with a flowy velvety gown! And, it's always a good idea to team velvet outfits with neutral colours. That aside, linen culottes ( which is again a retro style) look amazing when worn with a laced top or a ruffled crop blouse.”
The charming yet edgy vibe of the 70s drew inspiration from raging musical preferences back then. But, the obsession around some of the era's fashion hits are seeing a massive resurgence of late — in 2017.
“A lively mash of midi dresses with a gypsy flair has always been a fashion favourite. But, matching it with casual outfits is the flavour of the season.The hippie and Boho fashion, which seeped into the scene back in the '60s but continued throughout the '70s is gaining momentum yet again. If you do not want to go all out with a vintage look, add a chic accouterment - suede belts, tassle earrings, or even a fitted leather jacket over a maxi dress. Works well for a balmy brunch date or a casual day at work,” suggests designer Nagashree Gururaj.
Not ready to throw caution to the winds? Then stick to trusty monochrome says fashion blogger Anjalli Sukumaran. “The black and white combination never fails. The easiest way to pull off the look is by sporting a vintage midi skirt with an off shoulder top. Styling a midi skirt with a crop top is an overdone trend that could be replaced with a nice cutout top or a cold shoulder pastel top to add a twist to your outfit,” she states.
Clearly, the modern minimalist with an edgy vibe ticks all the boxes this season. But, ensure you take the basics and comfort factor into consideration. “A blingy jumpsuit in the right size, worn with a beige fitted blazer is a safe buy. It's always a nice idea to begin with a basic and breezy look as it's important for the understated elegant charm to be reflected. That’s the appeal you should be channeling, if sporting vintage with a touch of casual chic is on your mind,” signs off Shruti Sarin, a lifestyle influencer.