Most youngsters are back in college for a new academic year and the rest are gearing up. And while a new year filled with studies, fun and friends awaits interesting fashion trends are also the highlight of the season. If you’re still in the process of refurbishing your wardrobe and are uncertain if you’re doing it right, here’s a checklist. According to Niyati Manoj, a freelance designer, “If your college permits you to wear western clothing, you have to own a pair or two of well-fitted comfortable denims. Try different shades. Go in for distressed jeans if you have the confidence to pull off the look. Ankle length denims with gold zippers look stylish. Jeggings are a good option if you have legs that are well toned. Dungarees or overalls have made a huge comeback and are perfect for teenagers.” White-on-white, denim on denim, and jumpsuits are other interesting options.
As far as top wear goes, she suggests: “T-shirts are always the most preferred. While monochrome is in, how about revisiting your childhood with Disney prints on your tee? T-shirts with quirky quotes and ones with graphic prints are as popular among girls as they are with boys. Off-shoulder tops are stylish as also are button-downs and lace tops. With the sky being overcast, give nautical stripes a shot. Fringe tops would help you stand out too.”
With a few colleges making ethnic clothing the dress code for girls, stylist Rashee Gupta says: “Indian wear has an appeal of its own especially if you know how to mix and match your outfits. Black ankle length leggings are a must-have. Buy lycra/cotton churidhaar/ leggings in different colours to match your kurtas. While floral, paisley, and hand-block prints are a favourite among college goers, this is the best time to experiment with tribal prints, ikat, bandhini, tie-and-dye, and even graphic prints that are a fusion of eastern and western design inspirations. Karachi kurtas are flattering and you could even try the high-low western-inspired long kurtas with block colour leggings. Chiffon dupattas lend a feminine quotient and the Patiala salwar still has a huge following.”
Backpacks have never been cooler. And no, we aren’t talking about the oversized, overweight variety you lugged to school. Backpacks for college-going girls today are much smaller and chic and are made of canvas. Motifs and prints range from owls, butterflies, flowers, hearts and emojis to ikat, leopard print, camouflage, and cosmic-inspired designs. These go best with western wear. Totes and oversized handbags are also great picks.
As for footwear, “quirky sneakers are hip and so are ballet flats, funky smoking slippers, ankle strap sandals, and embellished and sparkly flats. If you’re wearing salwar kameez/churidhaar to college, buy Kolhapuri chappals in metallic shades,” suggests Anoushka Sivaprasad, a student.
Coming to jewellery, slim bangles in silver, gold, and copper are sure to suit most of your outfits. Chunky bracelets and quirky watches are a great choice too. Statement earrings and necklaces are what young women are opting for these days.
Turning the spotlight on boys, Niyati says, a few good pairs of well-fitted denims and chinos in different shades are must-haves. “Graphic print tees of one’s favourite bands, musicians, and comic characters must make it to your wardrobe. Also, semi-formal shirts — plain, checkered, and with stripes, are great for college wear. Invest in a good jacket and pullover. Wear comfortable but smart footwear. Carry a satchel this year.”
Make this year at college your best-dressed yet.
