Heavy metal: Metallics fashion runways

Well, one might not be heading to the moon and back but that doesn’t mean one can’t dress the part, especially when there are so many out-of-this-world options on offer. The season’s grand runways featured usually hard-to-pull-off metallics in decidedly fresh ways — culottes washed in liquid silver at Pankaj and Nidhi, high shine metals weaved into different fabrics at Gaurav Jai Gupta, and ultra-sophisticated and preppy gold jacquard  paired with crisp black blouses at JJ Valaya.

“Our technology-fuelled lives are advancing a space-age style revival and there’s a fierce magic about it. So why not travel to a distant world?” happily questions designer Pria Kataaria Puri.

Modern foil pieces, whether on wide-leg trousers or ruffled miniskirts, have been brought into daytime territory thanks to sculptural silhouettes and savvy styling. Pria adds, “The re-powered utility spacesuit and stiffened silver foil trousers are defining what it means to stay ahead of the curve.”

The key to metallics is the finish, she says. Avoid high-shine items if you’re not comfortable and go for brushed metal or satin finishes and simple shapes.

While foil skirts and iridescent shirts may be too high maintenance for few people with their manmade fibres and razor-sharp creases, one can wear always rely on simple pieces. “When it comes to metallic pieces, we tend to gravitate toward safer options like bags and shoes as they allow us to add some shiny flair without overwhelming our overall look. But you can never go wrong with a show-stopping skirt,” suggests designer Ridhima Bhasin. She goes on, “Pair it with a simple white button up, which will easily take you from the office to happy hour with friends. You can also look at easier options like a bomber in deep rust colour, which is practically an easy to wear neutral. For beginners, the second-skin turtleneck in bright white is the way to go. Also, don’t forget to swap your space helmets for handbags tucked under the arm. However, if you are still unsure and just want to dip your toe in the silvery waters, then buying a pair of shiny shoes is the best option. They’re versatile and add a little fun to formal clothing.”

Another important factor while wearing a head-turning metallic top or bottom is to style it with neutrals. This will keep the outfit grounded, reveals Ridhima. “A classic pair of jeans will act as a neutral canvas for whatever else you choose to pair with them. Also when you’re mixing in a second piece, don’t make it compete colour-wise. Whether it’s a sweatshirt, a slick leather jacket, or a sweater, always opt for one in a neutral hue like grey, white or black. If you want to go all-in, don’t mix and match random items. Go with a one-piece like a dress or jumpsuit or pull on a matched set. It’s always better to don an outfit that looks cohesive instead of mismatched. But whatever you do, do not overaccessorise. Remember, if the dress is over-the-top, keep accessories more subtle, only use the dress as a statement,” she concludes.