This is an average Indian girl’s fashion guide to the sweltering hot Indian summer.
Disclaimer: I solemnly accept that I am not your typical high-end can-never-go-wrong fashion blogger.
That said I am an average Indian girl maneuvering the scorching relentless summer as fashionably as the temperature would permit.
So, my life is not just about sipping cocktails on a beautiful beach and getting myself tanned or traveling in luxurious AC cars and shopping at high-end malls. Instead it is about traveling in the bus to reach the metro (subway) station and then go to the office. Also going to flea markets for shopping and making that unavoidable trip to local vegetable market every alternate day.
Therefore wearing a designer label is not a very enticing notion when you think about traveling in crowded buses and metro. If by chance you are out roaming in open air markets wearing those comfy shorts and tees, you are bound to become an eye-candy for every other Indian male homo sapiens – attention that is often uninvited!. Also the flip-flops look good on the beach but in real life they tan your feet badly with some pretty hideous patterns!
The temperatures 
in India are currently battling to reach a blistering 122°F (50°C) which along with dry dusty winds is probably not a good way to get that beautifully even tanned olive skin. You not only get a bad case of patchy tanned skin that takes whole of winter to heal and return to its original shade but along with that the unwanted burning sensations as well.
Keeping all these things in mind I have compiled five handy fashion tips for us average Indian gals and those tourists who are crazy enough to want to experience “The Great Indian Summer!”
These are inspired from my personal humble wardrobe… 🙂
- Colors – Absolutely shun any dark colors. It’s true that black makes you look sultry and midnight blue is to die for but trust me when I say that they could be a nightmare in Indian summer. You can go for lighter shades such as whites, coral blue/green, lemon yellow, pink etc. Also avoid shades of red – it makes you hot, literally!
- Chuck the Jeans; Go for Patialas – Patialas are a flowy and loose fitting
trousers that go well with short Kurtis or tunics. You can find the most comfortable patialas and a lovely collection of tunics/kaftans at Fab India – fashion brand known for its Indian weaves and dresses. It is my personal favorite too. You can also go for long cotton skirts which are breezy and protect your legs from suntan. - Linens & Cottons are your best friends – Both these are breathable fabrics that ensure air-circulation even in the hottest of weathers keeping your skin cool. My collection of cotton and linen tunics are a force to reckon with!
- Light cotton scarves – Hats are a good choice when you are out and about on a hot day but scarves are more efficient as they not only help you cover your head but also conceal your face from the dust and pollution.
Whether you are traveling on an auto rickshaw or waiting for the bus, scarves are an effective way to keep your head cool. Flea markets in Delhi are filled with colorful and light scarves available at amazing prices. - Juttis – It is a type of footwear inspired by the Punjabi culture. It covers half
your feet thus saving them from tanning. It goes well with almost every outfit and is extremely comfy.
So, these are some stylish yet cheap ways to keep you cool during the unforgiving Summer Season in India.
P.S. Never get out of the house without your bug-eyed sunglasses, big bottle of water, soothing Aloe-Vera lip balm and Face-wipe! Sic. Of course don’t forget your wallet – Going Dutch is the best way to keep it simple & real!
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