Cool fashion for the hot summer
Man zone
Well, it’s time to give heavy stuff a break. This summer, fashion gurus are encouraging men to embrace pastel shades for a fresh, lighter look.
“In formal settings, opt for linen shirts — whether a classic collared style or a Chinese collar — in light shades of blue, green, or white, paired with smart trousers,” says Midhunlal J R, founder of De:ha: by Midhun.
“For casual settings, try parallel or Korean-style pants with a slightly loose shirt, and complete the look with leather-strapped sandals or loafers.”
Popular actor-designer Poornima Indrajith, too, says she always focuses on comfort over fashion.
“We often have outfits that stay untouched for months simply because they are not suitable for the sultry weather we experience here, right? Whether it’s men’s wear or other collections, this is a key consideration while I design,” she says.
She also points out that there’s less demand among men for perfectly tailored shirts for summer, instead long drop-shoulders have taken the centre stage.
Her latest collection, Muziris, features handwoven, hand-drawn, and machine-embroidered shirts that capture the essence of childhood memories.
“Men’s fashion isn’t dull these days. Prints play a huge role, and in this collection, we have incorporated elements of nostalgia — chaya kadas (tea shops), bicycles cruising down roads lined with coconut trees, etc. Men certainly aren’t shying away from a variety of prints. In fact, we have plans to launch men’s collections featuring diverse prints,” adds Poornima.
For a smart casual look in the summer, experts recommend pairing light trousers with matching sandals. Another great option includes slightly wider-leg trousers that taper down to a cropped ankle, paired with strapped leather sandals and a Cuban collar shirt for an effortless yet stylish ensemble.
If you prefer simplicity, chinos and a classic T-shirt will work well. Another sure-shot winner, of course, is the good-old khadi, which offers a wide range of fusion possibilities.
