Romancing blue

The world of fashion fell for the blues yet again as Melania Trump made her official world debut as FLOTUS. Designers and fashion-watchers agree that the shade is soft and dreamy and also adds character to a woman’s personality.

“This intense yet soft colour makes a statement without being in-your-face. It turns a warm sweater, notch-colour coat, or pretty dress into something startlingly original. That’s why there’s no wonder that baby blue has edged out olive and rust as Fall’s most prominent hue this year. These light blues pop well against white and are rich and sophisticated with black. That means pair them with neutrals. So add touches of one or both to an ensemble — layer a long blue blazer over black pants, and wrap a white leather belt around your waist, for example. If you are a purist, then embrace it in its most vibrant form — an elegant gown.

And those who are colour shy can slip into a silky top or sculpted heels,” suggests designer Amy Billimoria, adding, “Blue clothes tend to look more expensive and wearing a baby blue outfit against a nude-au-naturel inspired makeup is beyond perfection. Do a natural lip, and define eyes with a dark liner plus a smokey shadow for drama at night.” Contrary to its association with ‘blue’ moods, blue lifts one’s spirits and calms one’s nerves. It also suits all types of hair colour — red, blond, black and even grey. In fact, it suits all age groups too — older or younger.

“If, however, you think that you are looking like you fell into a bucket of blue paint but still feel love for the shade, limit yourself to one item. It will make a statement. More subtle but it will hold the same femininity and power to it. A bag, classic pumps, a pastel blue skirt with a boxy top, a dark blue summer dress, a blue bathing suit, a blue leather jacket, etc. are ideal options. For a powerful fashion pairing, mix powder blue, citrine and mint with just a dash of yellow into your getup. If this feels like too much colour, you could opt for a neutral jacket, or go for a much lighter baby blue top,” shares designer Ridhima Bhasin.

She adds, “Powder blue is a wonderfully subtle shade, so use it tactfully. It has a pastel undertone and hence, looks great on all skin tones. For the day, opt for a powder blue floral gown, a coat or a simple shirt to look modern and stylish. For a night out, I would suggest wearing a powder blue dress with hair pulled back in a sleek bun and soft pink lips, and for a work meeting go for a powder blue suit.

Since the colour is a little unusual for work, it will make you look elegant and powerful at the same time. You can also pair a powder blue scarf or muffler with white or light coloured accessories to achieve a chic get-up. Powder blue also works well in our ethnic arena. A baby blue printed sari or an embellished Anarkali suit with silver zari or sequins or mirror work is the way to go. As far as fabrics are concerned, you are spoilt for choice — go for cotton, wool or silk to make a statement.”