20 January,2021 07:38 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita Paul
Arlette Grao and Khushnaz Turner
As comfort continues to be the top priority for fashion lovers, robes are experiencing a resurgence in a much bigger way than ever before. No longer are these considered the top wardrobe choice for rich singles in 1980s television dramas - on the contrary, thanks to the profusion of colours, fabric choices and silhouettes that contemporary robes come in, fashion-forward dressers have found ingenious ways to wear robes outdoors and even to work. Robe-inspired silhouettes have even found a place on fashion runways, with Fendi's recent show featuring dressing gown-inspired coats that can be paired with their âoutdoor' pyjamas. Those who have been rocking robes in their new-found avatar tell us how it's done.
. Bold fashion: "Go bold with your choice of colour and pick a sleek fabric such as silk or satin. A wine-hued robe in a flirty, shorter length can accentuate your legs. Add a belt to cinch in the waist and pair this with deep, bold lips. Tiny details such as kimono-style flared sleeves, embossing on the fabric, and a high collar or neck tie-up can take your look from boudoir chic to date night appropriate," says fashion blogger Anuradha Mohan. Pair the robe with heels or high boots.
.Soft glamour: Longer robes in plush fabrics such as velvet can easily be transformed into elegant evening wear, says fashion blogger Khushnaz Turner. "Drape the robe in a slightly asymmetrical fashion exposing a hint of shoulder. Lighter colours can be tricky to work with as the material could easily resemble towelling. To avoid this, choose fabrics with a subtle sheen or featuring delicate embroidery. Accessorise with a broad Obi belt and matching sky-high heels, as well as delicate gold or studded jewellery," she suggests.
.Sporty monochrome: Robes with attached hoods work quite well as street wear. Layer these with a plain white tee and fitted shorts, and accessorise with a cross-body bag and trendy trainers, preferably in the same colour, advises Brinda Shah, a fashion blogger. Sign off the look with a bold lip colour and brow, and minimal eye make-up.
.Colour block : A robe or robe-style coat can be the final layer of a work ensemble, says image consultant Greeshma Thampi. Choose a robe in a light knitted fabric for a sleeker silhouette and a bright colour. Pair this with dark grey or black pants and a solid-coloured tee or top along with comfortable flats. Add a thin belt for more definition and gold jewellery.
.Suited up : Thin cotton robes can be knotted at the waist for a chic but comfortable look, says model Arlette Grao. Pair this with linen trousers in the same colour and a white tee for a look that is effortlessly stylish. Men, too, can cash in on this trend with robe-style jackets worn over crisp white shirts and colour-coordinated pants. "Boxier, relaxed fits add to the laid-back vibe, without making you look under-dressed," says actor
Varun Pande.
.Patterns and prints: Rapper and stand-up comic Rahul Sridhar says, "My partner bought this Frida Kahlo-themed robe from a thrift store and I was instantly
attracted to the vibrant print and playful colours," Robes with quirky prints can be thrown over an otherwise simple tee and jeans ensemble to dress up the look.
