If last winter was all about flares and chunky knits, this time around the dresses are getting the jersey treatment. Perhaps it’s the gym-slimmed and beach bodies that are prompting designers to drape the fabric in their collection. But while this trend — draped jersey — may be on the verge of overexposure, designers and brands like Céline, Stella McCartney and Chloé have managed to keep the look fresh.
“Jersey is the new black,” declares designer Pallavi Mohan. “The jersey fabric has definitely undergone a lot of changes since its inception. Earlier the fabric was only used for casual wear or sportswear wherein the silhouettes ranged from t-shirts and shorts. But now, with the evolved technology, you can see beautiful draping of jersey in evening wear dresses, gowns and even lehengas. The idea of having an interchangeable capsule wardrobe appeals to the new age women and since jerseys can be worn throughout the year, it fits perfectly in one’s ever changing wardrobe. Nowadays, jerseys are even used for making products like buttons, belts and neckpieces. The fabric is warm, flexible, stretchy and very insulating, making it a popular choice for the layer worn closest to the body.”
Designer Hemant Sagar agrees, “Jersey is one of the most practical of materials for modern urban living. It washes and wears just as well as it travels and neither needs careful packing nor pressing.”
Talking in terms of silhouettes, he adds, “Jerseys have to be either free-flowing and draped or tight and body hugging. Jersey dresses are very much in vogue this season and so are well-tailored jackets, high-waisted flannel pants and jumpsuits. The most attractive thing about jersey is its lack of need for special care and the fact that it can be mixed and matched with other fabrics. They are paired with materials that are the contrary to this flowing material — a sleek simple jersey dress, for example, looks great with a leather biker jacket. About different styles, patterns and prints — you have plenty of options to choose from — go for printed jersey or drapes inspired by ancient Greek robes. Even a jersey scarf makes for a great statement.”
Pallavi adds, “This season, fashion lovers can go for different styles like loose-fitted silhouettes, long tops, maxi dresses, long skirts, or dungarees. Printed jersey is definitely in trend. One could go for stripes, polka dots, gypsy or floral prints for this season. For a chic and fuss-free look, accessorise minimally. Keep the look as simple as possible by using one accessory at a time, it may be a bracelet or earrings or a chain in the neck with nice shoes. For make up, nude is in, and for hair — opt for loose waves or braids. The colour palette is concentrated in the dark shades so go for blue, grey, green, black but if you must wear something brighter, choose white. Black jersey, however, is a classic.”
Speaking of the use of jersey in Indian wear, designer Gautam Gupta adds that you can be experimental with the fabric in bridal wear too. “Coming season is all about sport luxe and new-age brides aren’t shying away from experimentation. Since the fabric is versatile, one can go for highly-embellished jersey lehengas, over-sized blouses, Indian-style robe coats, kurtis with plunged necklines paired with dupatta, and even opt for saris. However, it is advisable not to forget to choose the right innerwear when wearing a garment made of jersey.”
