Extreme contrast

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At the moment fashion is on a high of extreme contrasts and sincerely, no one’s complaining. In fact Oscar de la Renta, Gucci and Marc Jacob have gone on an exploration of the classic black and white contrast for their Spring 2013 creative quest.

From colour blocking, stripes to polka dots, in bigger and itsy bitsy format, the trend is on a roll. Our desi designers are using the idea in various versions.
Designer Priyanka Rajiv shares her views on the haute trend. “Apart from the very trendy black and white, contrasting colour panels create maximum impact.” Going for the details, she informs, “Let the sleeves or back or front be in opposing colours or a collage of square and rectangular patches. Patent leather combined with matte fabrics have the potential to create something wonderful. In sync with this trend, androgynous pieces are being combined with extremely feminine pieces like a buttoned down shirt with a chiffon ruffled skirt.”
She lets out a warning though, “Petite framed women should opt for a paneling which gives an overall sleek look. Make sure the patches don’t end up looking like a quilted bedspread.”
For designer Simrita Dhillon, candy stripes in solid colours is the favourite option. “The pattern is a melody of stripes, solids and some contrast colour detailing. It’s a quirky and fun way of dressing and definitely a must-have during the spring days”.
“Another super interesting look is bringing prints and stripes on the same page. You cannot go wrong with white base and candy stripes in diagonals as well. Wear the trend with flat Roman sandals for day look and colourful wedges to pep up the glamour quotient for a night out,” adds Simrita.
Designer Shantanu Goenka feels nothing can beat the black and white flavour when it comes to high contrast. “Mould it in the western silhouette or give it an ethnic touch, play it in a subtle way or go prominently bold, it works both ways. Blending floral prints and animal prints like snake or leopard skin in an outfit is another smart way to carry this style. For that matter, checks in black and white juxtaposed with multi-coloured ones gives a showstopper look. Florals with traditional plaids combined for a knee-length, body-hugging dress will click for sure. Lastly, try the unconventional but don’t touch a bizarre note,” advises Goenka.