Get set for the chill
A mix of Indo-Western dresses will be the major trend this winter season,
says Nivedita Sharma

This is the right time to buy stylish coats, jackets and scarves Thinkstockphotos/ Getty Images

As winter knocks on the doors, stock up on a mix of bold colours and experimental designs that suit both genders, say experts. Coats, jackets, dresses, hats and scarves and even a mix of Indo-Western will be the major trends this season. Designer Nida Mahmood, known for her flair for creative and dramatic creations, stresses on androgyny fashion for this winter.

"Androgyny and colour blocking is very much in trend and looks great. This season is all about teaming jackets with sharp trousers, ruffled blouses or buttoned-up shirts. Also, shoulders and high waist are the highlights of the androgyny look, and going metallic with colours is also a very cool idea," says Mahmood. She also feels the international fashion trends from the 1940s will make quite a splash in the Indian market.

"A smart trend which will hit the fashion markets are clothes inspired by the 1940s style. While long lengths are very prominent this season, full sleeves, floor length dresses and skirts teamed with buttoned-up collar tops are going to set the mood," she adds. Mahmood's fashion tips are more for the bold girl who doesn't mind experimenting. But if you are one of those who likes to stick to feminine silhouettes, try dresses, accessorised with belts and leather jackets.

"For those who want sophistication, metallic dresses, red carpet gowns and pencil skirts, teamed with belts and leather jackets, can do wonders. To add fun, go for hats of different varieties like berets, beanies, cloches and caps," advises designer Jatin Varma. "Hues like orange, aubergine, burgundy, purple, teal blue and indigo in fabrics like tweed, silk and organza can work wonders," he says about the colours and fabrics in vogue for winter 2011. Designer Archana Kochhar suggests the Indo-Western look. "Colour blocking is an excessive trend which can't go wrong regardless of either an Indo-Western outfit or a complete desi garment. As far as prints are concerned, floral, spotted and wild prints will continue to be in fashion. But I feel vintage prints will have a special significance in inspiring trends," Kochhar feels.

The regulars like the coat and jacket will obviously be around. "Top picks for the winter season will be a smart hat, gloves, high boots, an overcoat and woollen scarf. Maxi coat, double-breasted short jackets will be in vogue. Feminine blouses with bows or scarves are impressive. Not to forget leather, which is also a hit this winter," says designer Kapil Arora of label Kapil and Monika.

Also, unlike common perception that embellishments are best kept for summer, Mahmood feels such add-ons lend a style quotient to winter garments. She says: "Texture overload is a wonderful road to take this season. One should pile on thick and thin knits. Don't hesitate to mix leather, sequins and patchwork...One can also go for boucle yarn to glam up the look. Plastic and metallic details happily join the look." Designer Pam Mehta suggests: "Layering can make you look glamorous. And accessories like crystal belts, chunky necklaces, earrings and head pieces can be good options, and embroidered bibs can also jazz up the usually plain necklines."

If girls have so many options, why should men be left behind? Designer Sunneet Kapoor says military style coats, jackets, pleated trousers and bold pocket squares are making a huge comeback, apart from the usual Nordic motifs, stripes and check prints.

For accessorising, he says: "Men have restricted styles available but one can add variety to their wardrobe by adding accessories like a good watch, scarves and elegant brooches. Also, canvas shoes and loafers can work well for en this winter." — IANS