I am wearing an oversized cotton shirt and roomy flared pants as I write this in Mumbai, on the day the northern hemisphere observes the spring equinox. But what the rest of the world likes to label as “spring” is the onslaught of a scorching summer in India—less balmy, more brutal.
Surviving an Indian summer is no easy feat, especially without plans to escape to a homestay in cooler climes. Not sure what your sartorial saviours can be? Celebrity and fashion stylist Divyak D’Souza suggests lightweight fabrics or classic Indian silhouettes. “Staples like a cotton chikankari kurta can be styled with pajamas for an off-duty look or with jeans for a more dressed-up take. Printed organza or linen saris are a surprisingly versatile addition to a summer wardrobe too,” he says. “Or go back to basics and invest in handloom cotton fabric—you can tailor co-ord sets, relaxed shirts or kaftans from them, all of which are perfect to beat the heat.” If your wardrobe leans more towards western silhouettes, consider block-printed shirts and dresses, worn with sneakers or sliders and paired with laidback accessories.
Not entirely sure where to begin this hunt? Allow us to offer some suggestions with a curation of looks that should feature on your summer shopping list.
This checkered block-printed, organic cotton co-ord set from slow-fashion brand Asa comprises a kaftan tunic and comfy everyday pants and can see you from errand runs to working lunches and weekend getaways. The best part? They work just as well when flying solo too.
Given how comfortable most of us got with loose, roomy clothing during the lockdowns, kaftans are a wardrobe staple in the post-pandemic world. But they needn’t be the type that only work at the poolside or in the living room. Cord takes a formal yet relaxed approach to the silhouette with this calf-skimming dress that is made for summer brunches.
Looking to keep it sustainable and stylish? Consider this strappy, striped jumpsuit by The Summer House. Made from tencel—a plant-derived, man-made fibre that requires less energy and water for production—it uses less dye than cotton and is 100 per cent biodegradable. Slip into a pair of flats and throw on a sling bag as you flaunt it on your beachside sojourn.
Beat the heat in a co-ord set that’s sure to fetch you more than a few compliments. This screen-printed floral number by Happi Space works when worn together, as separates, as well as individually. Wear the balloon-sleeved crop top and maxi skirt with side slits with layered chains for a sundowner party. Or team the skirt with a plain white tee for a relaxing day off.
What’s a summer wardrobe without some flirty dresses? This cheery block-printed, smocked mini with shoulder ties is conscious and cool—made by the female artisans supported by the PDKF (Princess Diya Kumari Foundation) store, and designed by Princess Gauravi Kumari and French designer Claire Deroo.
Cropped shirts? Yes please! Especially when it is in a cheer-me-up print like this camo shirt by Drawn. This oversized cropped shirt is extremely versatile–team it with boyfriend jeans, denim shorts and monochrome skorts alike.