White is hot this summer
By Saloni Kaul

WHITE is a tricky colour — both for the designer and wearer. Imperfections in weave, texture, cut or finish, which can easily be camouflaged in any other colour, stand out prominently in white. Moreover, it is difficult to maintain. In tropical conditions, you cannot but subject it to repeated washes and in effect, damage the fabric.

Yet white is everybody’s favourite, especially during summer. Unlike black, which absorbs heat, white is supposed to keep you cool and fresh throughout the day. Its cultural association with purity, virtue and such attributes of goodness has also contributed to its popularity.

Here are a few handy tips on how to look your best in white.

For a casual traditional look, check out some cotton sleeveless kurtas, which end a few inches above the ankle. Long slits from the waist down are in vogue. Tiny, delicate, but bright multicoloured hand embroidery around the neck, sleeves and at the hems would create drama for the outfit. A short singlet worn inside and loose white trouser would do the rest.

So do not shy away from that shoulder bag with mirror work embroidery and tassles, only that it shouldn’t be too large. You can even have an umbrella fashioned in the same style. And for a finishing touch, drape a chiffon dupatta, which compliments the colours on the bag and/or umbrella.

Your footwear, make-up and hairdo are just as important while making a fashion statement. White, thin-stripped leather sandals go very well with the kurta-trouser ensemble while make-up could be traditional, with lipstick corresponding to one of the major colours of the dupatta. Blush-on should be kept minimal though. And if you have long hair, tie a bun with white beaded pins, or else, use white clips to be short hair.

In formal western wear, your best option in summer is a waist-length strappy white top teamed with loose, white drawstring pants. A brightly-coloured hand-painted chiffon shirt could be worn as a loose jacket over the top. Tie your hair in a pigtail at the nape with a white scarf.

Once again, accessories will play a major role in making the most of white. Tiny silver studs in the ears, a thick long silver chain, silver bracelets and one silver anklet are some of the basics that go with the outfit. For added effect, try out some silver, matt finish rings on all your fingers!

As for shoes, a pair of white, very thin strapped open sandals should do fine. Coordinate the footwear with a small white handbag or a shoulder bag with delicate bead or mirror work. A matching umbrella with colourful tassels would keep the blaze of the sun away.

During summer, you do not wear heavy make-up. Light skin-tone creams and lotions should be applied along with a faint dash of lipstick and blush-on. Talcum powder (a common Indian weakness) can be your worst enemy during hot, summer afternoons. Also remember that dark glares go very well with white outfits.

For men to look cool, there is no substitute for white, hip length shirts with Chinese collars this summer. The trouble is that these shirts are increasingly looking like conventional kurtas with long side slits. So make sure the fit is right and get some interesting buttons made of colourful beads. Combine with beige trousers, preferably in cotton.

A belt is obviously not needed here as the shirt is supposed to be worn untucked. One can however, wear a trendy silver bracelet or a silver watchstrap with finger rings to match. A corded pendant in silver with matt finish would complete the casual look. But for a more formal wear, a self-weave white shirt and tie in a muted tone should be the norm.

Options for shoes could vary from open-ended beige sandals to loafers and kolhapuri slippers, so long as they are comfortable. Black boots tend to look out of place though. Crop your hair short and with dark glares to match, be ready to take on the world!

— Maharaja Features