Mumbai monsoon: Style tips on how to layer with shirts and shrugs

Fashion often takes a backseat for Mumbaikars during heavy downpour in the city While scarfs and stoles become shield from dirt and dust during commute via public transport shirts shrugs and capes offer just the right amount of warmth and protection from the momentary monsoon chills and windy weatherFrom buttondown and oversized shirts to capes and shrugs of varied lengths the Indian fashion market offers a wide range of top wear which can be used a layering piece over different tops and outfits These cover a wide range of styles from the fashion spectrum depending on the occasion While options are extensive styling them can be equally confusing and tricky If you are someone whorsquos in doubt about it wersquove got you coveredMidDay Digital reached out to fashion digital content creators Leisha Patidar and Vrinda Suri who share a quick guide on how to style different layering options and essential points to remember when buying themTrendy options for layering your everyday outfits1 Cropped shirts2 Plain buttondown shirts3 Oversized shirts with a pop of colour4 Crochet shrugs have a soft material but also help in giving out a fashion statement5 Cape shrugs are the best protection against the sun6 Shackets ndash A stylish combination of a jacket and shirt7 White rayon shirts which can be paired with almost every outfitHerersquos how you can style some of these shirts and shrugsCheckered shirts Checkered shirts always give a vintage vibe so one can go with cargo pants highwaisted shorts or the most comfortable bermuda shorts They are also great to layer over a basic black or white tank toptshirt depending on the colour of the shirt and almost any black pants for a simple rugged look If it is extra chilly one can also layer a denim jacket on top for a chic lumberjack look Add a baseball cap on top for extra style and an added bonus of hiding messy hairPlain buttondown shirts To follow the trend lowwaisted pants work best with plain buttondown shirts They can also be tucked into a flowy midi skirt to break the rigidity of the shirt and achieve an elegant lookOversized shirts To always get that homely or comfortable feeling cycling shorts are a good choice for oversized shirts Crisp white oversized shirts and denim could never go wrong Opt for a wideleg jean silhouette and accessorise with minimal gold jewellery to channel the clean girl aestheticAlso read Slay it in the rains Herersquos how to plan your wardrobe for the Mumbai monsoonCrop shirts To give a classic look long pants or highwaisted denim jeans suit well with cropped shirts One can also wear a tropical or floral printed skirt with cropped shirts to give that pop effect Pair them with breezy cotton shorts and a stylish bandana hairband for a simple laid back lookShort and long shrugs Bodycon dresses with either a short or long shrug would look great To try a different look one can go ahead with bohemian shirt and shorts with colourful jewelleryFor a bohochic look you can style these with a contrasting tank top and bootleg denims with some statement earrings and maybe a straw hat if yoursquore feeling extraCrochet shrugs A crochet shrug can be worn as a top and can be styled according to the event or place A contrasting top to block out the torso under the crochet netting and a pair of neutral oversized cargos would go wellCape shrugs These shrugs can be used as casual as well as party wear The main purpose is to protect you from the sun but one can style it fashionably One cape shrug can be channelled into many aesthetics You can wear it over some block printed pants and a white top for an indo western casual look or you can wear a belt around the cape and make it into a flattering dress silhouette Donrsquot forget to add some statements earrings to match the lookQuick tip for middleaged women and older adultsWhen it comes to shrugs one can use long or short shrugs over long dresses For shirts denim jeans with shoes or flats make up for a classic lookAdd a statement necklace and black pumps to complete the lookTo style shirts add a pop of colour with a blazer and pair it with a pair of wide leg denims This look can be dressed up with complementing stilettos or dressed down with a pair of clean white sneakersKey points to remember before buying the right shirt or jacket1 Always know your measurements and body type2 Subtle features on a shirt can add a stylish edge3 Pay attention to the collar4 Know about the fabrics that work the best for you It should be a heavy fabric so it doesnrsquot sully down the silhouette of the outfit and adds an extra rigidity corduroy heavier cotton fabrics suede for the fit5 For a drop shoulder or boxy effect choose shirts with shoulders wider than your measurements6 Dont forget about the colour and print Layering pieces in neutral colours help in creating versatile combinations while trying to keep the consumption downAlso read Ditching jeans this monsoon Experts share tips on styling different types of bottom wear