Robes and robe-style jackets now being included in street and leisurewear. If you want to give them a go, here’s how you should style them
Arlette Grao and Khushnaz Turner
Greeshma Thampi and Rahul Sridhar
.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.
Brinda Shah and Anuradha Mohan
.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.
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.
