Must-Have Monsoon Staples: Essential Picks for a Stylish Season

The arrival of the monsoon season brings a pleasant and soothing break from the heat, with a subtle freshness in the air that we all enjoy. But alas! These joys don’t last too long as we may find ourselves stranded in a sea of unpreparedness with the rains as they make their presence known. Scrambling through your wardrobe while you scram to get to work on time, especially when it’s pouring outside, can be a real challenge. If you and your wardrobe are feeling a little extra gloomy their moon, then some fashion advice will definitely kick it into high gear, so don’t let the torrential rain dampen your spirits, embrace the chaos with a stylish splash.

While picking essential styles for the season, Deepika Bharadwaj, Design Head, Latin Quarters suggests that, “Having the right knowledge of the fabrics while picking the outfits for the rainy season is imperative. Monsoon dressing is all about smart choices. Lightweight fabrics like linen and cotton are a must-have, and adding pops of colour can brighten even the rainiest day. The simplest of ‘fits’ can be made stylish – say you wear a cotton button down shirt over some dark-tone linen trousers topped off with Birkenstocks and you’re sorted. Pro tip – if you’re scheduled for a meeting, switch out the birks with some kitten heels and add a blazer to the whole look.”

Echoing this sentiment, Ankit Jaipuria, Co-founder, ZYOD, expands on the importance of fabric choice and adds insights on sustainable and vibrant fashion for the rainy season.

He says, “Monsoon fashion requires a careful balance of style, comfort, and functionality. This means fabrics like cotton and linen, which are breathable and durable, allowing for maximum comfort in this humid, rainy weather. Our in-house research at ZYOD confirms this, as our analysis has revealed a 23% increase in demand for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Our design and production are driven by data and innovation, which leads to collections emphasising sustainability and ethical production methods that respect fashion and the environment. ”

Jaipuria further suggests that additionally, vibrant colour palettes and dynamic prints are much in demand to brighten up the dull rainy days, and our patterns are designed keeping this in mind. So, embrace the monsoon season with confidence and flair, knowing that every piece is manufactured with meticulous care and innovation.

If you are still confused about what to wear – do not worry. We’ve got you covered as always. Bhardwaj shares her go-to-rain-proof tips for the gloomy season so that fashion score is never low.

1. Lean into your linens

The best advice would be to wear breathable linen pants instead of your regular pants. Not only are linens comfortable and lightweight, but they dry super-fast, making it a great material for the unpredictable weather. Whether you’re jumping over wet streets or dodging puddles, the loose fit of linen pants keeps you cool and facilitates mobility. Choose tones that blend seamlessly with the season’s ambiance, ensuring your outfit remains stylish and practical for the season.

2. Brighten up your day with pops of colour

Brighten up your wardrobe by incorporating pops of colour. Don’t hesitate to add vibrant hues and playful patterns to your outfits, lifting spirits even on the gloomiest of days. opt for cheerful yellows, lively blues, or even a bold floral print to add a touch of brightness and energy to your rainy-day ensemble. Experiment with accessories like colourful scarves or statement jewellery to further elevate your look and make a stylish splash amidst the raindrops.

3. Save the floor length pieces for later

When selecting midi dresses for the monsoon season, consider styles that fall just below the knee or to your mid-calf area. This length is ideal as it prevents the dress from dragging on damp surfaces, which can be both uncomfortable and impractical during rainy weather. A midi dress allows easy movement and ventilation, crucial for staying cool and comfortable amidst the humidity. Add some pumps if you’re headed outside in the evening and carry a safety pair of sandals.

4. To accessories or not – that is the question!

If you want your everyday pieces to be tarnish-free then go for minimal accessories when it’s raining’ and pouring’ outside. not only keeps your look streamlined and practical but also minimises the hassle of dealing with accessories that could be affected by rain or humidity. Stick to essential pieces like a sturdy watch, and simple earrings that can add style without compromising on functionality in unpredictable weather.