Check my stripes

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A model sports an outift with checkered prints

Call it the biggest spring surprise on the fashion horizon. Florals have taken a backseat, instead stripes, squares, geometric patterns are stealing the show this spring season.

Designer Aniket Satam offers a weather-infused explanation to this development. He says, “Stripes are major this season, however only a few patterns are in demand. Instead of classic pinstripes and fine lines, opt for bold stripes like jail bars and block stripes. Experiment with graphic imagery by sporting optical illusions in the form of gradually increasing striped patterns in terms of linear spacing in the breadth of the lines. Shun regular prints and go for textured striped fabrics. Checks are more inspired by 1990s grunge mood. Go for two varied formats — either bold cartoon-inspired checks which are in your face and chess-like, or choose Kurt Cobain chic by sporting it in the form of dull and washed out lungi checks.”
Deviating from the print affair, the designer suggests, “Texturing is big this season, add dimension by creating your stripes in the form of appliqué ribbons or laces to create new patterns. Layer two different types of stripes over each other to create unique check illusion. Similarly, create your own grid by appliquéing ribbons of different materials and size for a 3D tartan look.”
However, the designer points out certain do’s and don’ts. “Skip horizontal stripes as they give a larger structure, while vertical stripes give an illusion of extra height. Diagonal lines take away attention from problem areas. Avoid grids in constructed silhouettes which make one look more static.”
Designer Jyoti Khaitan reiterates the fact that checks and stripes have overtaken the floral scene. She says, “The thickness of stripes in structured outfits, shirts and pencil skirts has to be small to medium. In flowy and ankle-lengthdresses or gowns, the stripes can be bigger or can go from medium to big and also look great when placed asymmetrically.”
Black and white, white and blue, shades of blue, grey and white are Jyoti’s preferred colour codes. Listing her favourites, she says, “Checks and stripes placed horizontally, vertically and in bias cut, on a structured short length outfit can make a chic ensemble. Fitted pencil skirts with small or medium checks teamed with a lace top look extremely elegant. Skirt suits in small checks, whether white and black or white and blue, give an elegant look while flowy long dresses with stripes in different panels give a feminine feel.”
Designer Riyaz Ganji endorses the stripes’ domination too, adding, “Even in pocket squares, checkers are in vogue. I am using stripes for my jackets as it gives a slim effect. Vertical stripes for shirts, trousers and jackets are also good options for the linear look. Those with a very slim body should wear checks as it makes them look broader. Black and white checks in scarves, pocket squares give a very good definition to the garment. While checkered skirts work well, do not go for checkered trousers.”