1960s’ (flower power)
Bohemian — that’s the perfect word to define your 1960s’ inspired style file, points out designer David Abraham. The flower power era still remains high on nostalgia and charm. This season, the designers urge you to pick a short shift dress straight from the 1960s’ decade. “Give your party favourite LBD a miss. A digitally printed monochrome short shift dress is the ‘it’ choice to tell your sixties story in 2014,” says David.
“Remember the decade was not just about clothes. It was well reflected in accessories too. That includes colourful sandals, kitten heels, funky shades and prominent earrings. Not to be missed is the headgear. Just repeat the Brigitte Bardot success story by keeping it short and simple,” reminds designer Rakesh Thakore.
1970s’ Retro (jumpsuit)
We have been in love with the 1970s’ for quite sometime now. And the commitment continues in F/W 2014. “If you are in the mood to pick up a single attire to define the ‘Me decade’ then it has to be the jumpsuit. Your choice extends from flared bell bottom to narrow cigarette pant cuts. Bell sleeves can be the added attraction,” says designer Anita Dongre. She adds, “Create a retro-sensation effect by sporting bling in metallic shades and geometric patterns.
Keep the colour subtle while the embellishment and prints are allowed to have a field day. Or go for a bright shade card in colour blocking, with limited 3D appliqué work.”
1940s’ (tuxedos and midi skirts)
1940s’ was a time when fashion evolved and took a utilitarian turn. The idea is well reflected in today’s fashion forward woman — she works hard and loves to party. Since we are looking for a perfect blend of comfort and glamour, designer Ritu Kumar recommends a trendy and sophisticated look. “Go for the tuxedo, it is both vintage and very happening with its quiet yet edgy silhouette and slimming cut and colours. It can be matched with some experimental scarves and accessories.
It’s really chic and you can be a head-turner among the usual crowd of gowns and LBDs.”“The androgynous look is well complimented in vibrant colours from the traditional vegetable repertoire and also the jewelled tones. Seasonal fabrics like jersey, crepe and georgette do the job well. Another perfect catch for the 1940s’ decade is the swing midi dress or skirt that underlined fashion with a casual sense. Polka dots dominated the scene then and you can recreate that magic with a burst of bright colours,” she adds.
1920s’ (flapper dress)
I am in the mood to travel almost a century back and pick a 1920s’ flapper dress for the 2014 party scene,” declares designer Nidhi of Pankaj and Nidhi. “You are well and truly in the Great Gatsby style zone that has flamboyance written all over it. The drop-waist flapper dress comes with a sporty casual vibe, yet is never short on the glam quotient,” reasons designer Pankaj.
Sketching the ideal flapper party wear, Pankaj adds, “A classic drop-waist dress defines sophistication like no other. Since the silhouette is semi-constructed, soft fabrics like sheers are your best bets. Embellishments are a major part of the story — with geometric, retro or stripes of shimmer and sequins on a nude classic colour palette creating maximum impact.
Intricate embroidery and a limited display of bead settings can be great enhances too. Go for fringe hemlines or indulge in some heavy duty colour splash in the form of pop art. It’s all about creating a balance between subtle and flashy.”
