Monsoon-Ready Traditional Wear: How To Stay Stylish, Dry And Rooted In Elegance

Last Updated:July 27, 2025, 07:53 IST

Monsoon dressing in traditional wear is all about blending breathable fabrics with smart styling and weather-proof accessories.

Monsoon dressing can be tricky, especially when you’re leaning into traditional Indian wear. The downpours demand practicality, but the festive calendar and our love for ethnic fashion calls for flair. So, how do you strike a balance between function and fashion when the skies turn grey? Two experts weigh in on how to stay effortlessly elegant, even during the wettest season.

Fabric First: Breathe Easy, Move Freely

“The key to monsoon dressing is balance, staying stylish while being practical,” says Neeharika Leekha Wadhwa, Founder, Leather Garden. “I always recommend lighter, natural fabrics that breathe well. You want something that feels fresh and doesn’t cling to the skin in the humidity.”

Echoing this is Gaurang Batra, Creative Director, Frontier Raas, who suggests going for cotton-silk or chanderi fabrics that offer both comfort and structure. “They’re light, breathable, and ideal for the season. Plus, they drape beautifully without weighing you down,” he explains.

Dress Smart: Drapes That Move With You

Monsoon isn’t the time for trailing dupattas or heavily layered lehengas. “Opt for easy-to-manage silhouettes like pre-stitched saris or shorter kurtas,” advises Batra. These silhouettes are less likely to get soaked or muddy and let you move through your day with ease.

Even embellishments need a rethink. “We keep the detailing minimal, subtle touches that add elegance without soaking up moisture or making the garment heavy,” Batra adds.

Let Accessories Do the Talking

When the skies are dull, your accessories can brighten the vibe. “Add a pop of colour with your accessories, it lifts not only your outfit but your mood too,” says Wadhwa. Her go-to accessory for the season? A soft, quilted leather handbag. “It’s perfect for monsoons—stylish, water-resistant, and it keeps your essentials safe and dry.”

Whether it’s rain-friendly wedges, vibrant jewellery, or bold handbags, monsoon accessories are your chance to play without compromising comfort.

Palette Play: Go Earthy, Stay Fresh

Monsoon calls for colour therapy. “We recommend soft jewel tones or earthy pastels,” says Batra. “They hold up beautifully against the grey skies and add a subtle vibrance without being too overpowering.” Think moss green, dusty rose, deep teal, or muted gold.

Style That Works with the Weather

Ultimately, monsoon styling is about adaptability. Stay rooted in tradition, but don’t be afraid to update the details for the season. Swap heavy velvets for cotton-silk, go for shorter hemlines, and pick accessories that work as hard as they look good.

As Wadhwa sums it up, “Monsoon dressing doesn’t mean compromising on style—it’s about being smart, thoughtful, and a little playful with your choices.”

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More

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