Demystifying holiday chic

Vacations are for relaxation. So don't stress out about your holiday wardrobe! Here’s our list to help you make the most of your time out

August 15, 2014 08:07 pm | Updated 08:07 pm IST - Bangalore

Model in a Shruti Sancheti creation

Model in a Shruti Sancheti creation

The recently-concluded international resort wear weeks brought forth a plethora of innovative styling. Prominent designer labels such as Chanel, Christian Dior and Carolina Herrera showcased newer ways to wear holiday chic. With the resort/cruise lines gaining such constant standing, holiday styling is also being ceaselessly reinvented. No longer does a pair of shorts and sunglasses alone define a beach vacation. Holiday staples have now extended themselves to a broader range of outfits such as kaftans, maxis, high-slit dresses, and interesting hats even. Bohemian accessories and easy androgynous pieces are also now a part of effortless fashion en voyage. However, clubbing numerous style tips sometimes can be tedious. Here are a few basics that’ll keep you in check.

Comfort over trends

Fashion is bound to change constantly and experimentation is a part of it. However, travelling chic but travelling smart is usually harder than it appears. Fabrics such as silk, lycra, chiffon and georgette are fuss-free yet elegant. Furthermore, adding a scarf always helps multi-task when on a holiday. Similarly, carrying outfits that don’t require frequent ironing is another great idea to not make the vacation a task. “Traveling is a major part of any vacation and it is important to travel comfortable yet smart. I personally believe that a holiday should be more about comfort and less about trends. Anti-fit dresses, trousers and shirts make for instant easy chic. Likewise, neutrals are another great option for holiday wear and can be teamed with almost everything. Additionally, carry clothes in a capsule fashion and make sure most of your clothes are non-crushable and lightweight. Remember, when on vacation, easy is chic,” says designer Shruti Sancheti, whose label Pinnacle has been illustrious for feminine, wearable and sophisticated clothing.

Match the style to the destination

Another important element of holiday fashion is the choice of your destination. What is appropriate in terms of wearability also depends on factors such as the weather and place. Agrees designer Babita Malkani who recently showcased a string of interesting outfits at the India Resort Wear Week, “When on a beach or a luxury vacation, your ideal staples should include a sun hat, sunglasses and sun screen. Outfits like shift dresses, jumpsuits and palazzos provide a great deal of comfort while traveling to a place as such, plus they’re always stylish. Remember to keep it minimal. Clever layering is the key to easy luggage. Similarly, camping or safari trips mean adjusting to changeable weather, so always keep the weather in mind and pick an outfit accordingly. For an adventure-high, keep necessities handy in a sling bag satchel or a funky rucksack. Lastly, while on a holiday, exploring new places will keep you busy, so pack wisely with no-fuss clothing and keep it simple yet tasteful.”

Travel wise

With all of the style cues kept in mind, it’s still easy to get carried away and go overboard. Less can sometimes be more and not being watchful can end up making too much wrong with the ensemble to tackle. “It is important to have a realistic outlook when it comes to holiday styling. Packing, traveling and managing tasks leaves you with little time and being over-packed doesn’t make it any easier. Carry clothes that are low-maintenance and easy to wash. While it is important to pack a few spares in case of an emergency, don’t make it excess. Also, carrying a few extra pairs of socks and extra lingerie is essential because you’re going to need them more often. Additionally, always carry a shawl – it can easily cover for an unexpected breezy summer night apart from keeping you warm in the chilly weather,” advises designer Pria Kataaria Puri who has frequently incorporated bohemian and uncomplicated outfits in her designs.

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