Layer lure

Ladies, it’s time to layer up and embrace Fall/winter with vivid patterns, tones, silhouettes and fabrics

The beauty and excitement of the changing weather and the anticipation of holidays makes Fall one of the favourite seasons. But beyond all of the splendour and joy, Fall is also a reminder for fashion addicts that it’s time to trade in the breezy summertime maxi dresses and sandals for more snug, shielding garments like hats, scarves, gloves and outerwear. For most of us, Fall fashion can be a difficult task to master but fret not, as it can also be a wonderful opportunity to showcase your talent to layer — yes, layering is most certainly a talent.

“Personally, I think the biggest rule of layering is that you should be conscious of where you cut off your body (in terms of proportion), which is why I follow ‘the rule of thirds’ — it means that your look shouldn’t be divided into halves but rather into thirds. It is a matter of proportion and for layering to look its best, you must not cut off the parts that you are most conscious about. Like most women, I am also quite conscious about my lower half and so when layering, I take the lengths into consideration so that I don’t end up appearing too bulky. A perfectly layered look will compliment your curves and create the illusion of a more proportionate silhouette,” reveals designer Shalini Jaikaria of Geisha Designs.

On the other hand, designer Gautam Gupta points out, “Layering is no easy task. When an outfit is layered poorly, clothes can appear ill-fitting and sloppy. To make sure that you nail the look, start with your base, invest in a good quality thermal or innerwear that is more fitted and light weight so that even with the added layering you look more toned. Mix different textures and fabrics and use pieces with varying lengths. You can also mix a lot of different colours and opt for asymmetrical cuts and angled hems to add extra interest.”

On the most fashionable piece to invest in this season, designer Paras Bairoliya of Geisha Designs shares, “The best piece to invest in this season, in terms of layering, would be the poncho because you can layer it over many styles. The jacket trend this season is more unstructured and more draped over the shoulders. Hence, a blend of a shawl and poncho, or something along those lines would be best suited for this season. However, as always, my advice is to keep it simple. And to spend time working out what goes with what, rather than throwing stuff on at the last minute and hoping for the best.”

Gupta adds that a cape is a must-have for any layering experiments you do this season too and shares, “Trade your coat for a cape, as it is one of the latest trending layering options. It is being used in so many interesting ways and the modern cape will give you a break from your everyday winter coat for a chic, wrap-around appearance.”

On the tonal front he adds, “Obviously, the choice of colour comes down to personal preference and complexion but a white T-shirt, vest or shirt is always a good starting point. If you want to give a royal or structured look then go for fabrics such as silk and organza, but if you want a flowy look then fabrics like georgette, chiffon, nets and their variations will be better options. I personally prefer to wear tonal colours with the lightest close to my body and the darkest outside.”

“It’s natural to reach for a palette of black, gray and navy during winter, and why not — they all work great together. But mix up your neutral knits and wool separates with winter-approved prints,” quips Shalini.

Lastly, on how to layer an Indian outfit, Gupta suggests, “Wear a long jacket over a bustier or a blouse over a lehenga, or a wide-legged trouser. They look great. You can also opt for an elongated cape over a blouse and lehenga or a crop sleeveless jacket paired with a kurta.”