Fashion trends 2019: From cargo pants to fanny packs, six pieces that marry form with functionality

When Karan Johar wanted to gift Kajol a designer handbag, the first question she asked, much to KJo’s horror, was whether the bag had a zip in the front and back. The 44-year-old’s disdain for fancy bags, as revealed on the show Koffee with Karan, was something of a highlight. From structured cages and heavy petticoats to floor-length gowns worn over tight corsets, dressing up was once a tedious affair for women. But, thankfully functionality is no longer a fantasy. And, fashion’s current mood – practical over pretty – is giving style-makers their long-due reality check. “Perhaps, this is the reason why Indian clothes like kurtas have pockets now.

There are leather tabs that help you roll up your sleeves and that always makes clothes easy-to-wear and comfortable. These are essential to any garment,” says fashion designer Ragini Ahuja. For the new millennium, beautiful, in the words of Belgian polymath Dries Van Noten, is the only thing that’s boring. And, this turnover of aesthetics – from ostentatious to pragmatic – is surely resurrecting the past but it’s also leading the way to future.

Overalls for allMake pockets your best friends

Once worn by workers as protective garments, the modern iterations of overalls can now be donned while running errands. Plus, ditch your handbags and stuff all you want in its pockets!

Wear it to: “A red carpet if it’s a chic boiler suit or for running errands,” says fashion stylist Rishi Raj.

Offers form and function by: “Being really comfortable because it’s basically like a jumpsuit. It offers pockets on your outfit for carrying things like a lipstick or your keys. You don’t need a bag,” he says.

Style it with: “A peasant blouse for a bohemian look. You can also wear it with a bustier to look sexy,” he suggests.

Works best for: “A heavy person with a non-bulky style and a skinny person in something with details,” says Rishi.

The two-in-one jacket Turn it inside out for a new look

Wear a reversible jacket for the happiness of two outfits in one!

Wear it to: “Office. You could even wear it to a wedding if you wear it with a sari,” says Rishi.

Offers form and function by: Giving you the option of owning two outfits in one jacket. “You can sport a blingy look for a party and reverse it to a casual look for a lunch,” he says.

Style it with: “Saris, jumpsuits or trousers – you can throw it over anything but do not look frumpy. Make sure your look is clean and appropriate,” he suggests.

Works best for: “A curvy person if the jacket is fluid. Don’t choose a boxy silhouette if you’re skinny,” he says.

The fanny pack returns Keep it close with the revised belt bag

This old-time tourist essential will keep your hands free at all times and keep all the valuables close and safe

Wear it to: “Lunch, brunch or even the boardroom if you’re working in a creative space. It’s a versatile bag,” says fashion designer Ragini Ahuja.

Offers form and function by: “Instantly uplifting your outfit and it’s so easy to travel with as well. It’s really comfortable to carry if you don’t feel like carrying a bigger bag. You can keep all your valuables like keys, money, passport and it always remains close to your body. So your hands will be free at all times,” she says.

Style it with: “A tonal outfit if you’re sporting a bright-coloured fanny pack,” she suggests.

Works best for: “All body types. You can wear it around your waist to highlight it. And, if you’re not comfortable with that then wear it around your shoulder,” says Ragini.

The comeback of cargo pants Combat the need for backpacks with these new statement trousers

Update your style with an old wardrobe staple – cargo pants. They will take you from a hike to a hip night out!

Wear it to: “An evening out with your friends when you want to look edgy, or a lazy Sunday lunch,” says Ragini.

Offers form and function by: “Be it concealed or non-concealed, cargo pants have so many pockets and that’s the best part about it. They’re easy to wear. And, it can look like a statement piece with leather details,” she says.

Style it with: “A basic white kurta or shirt as black cargo pants in linen works great with these,” she feels.

Works best for: “All body types, but keeping the construction in mind is important. Something sleeker would look good on a curvy person as opposed to a style with bulging pockets that might look great on someone who is petite,” advises Ragini.

A timeless tote for all weathers Bid adieu to chips and stains

Come rain, hail or shine, a weatherproof tote will keep you prepared for all seasons

Wear it to: “Your vacation. Tote bags can be worn every day, from office to when you’re going out shopping,” says fashion designer Kanika Goyal.

Offers form and function by: “It’s size. While these type of totes do not offer many pockets but the size allows you to stuff a lot of things. One should buy it for its space,” says Kanika.

Style it with: “A funky outfit like one from Moschino,” suggests Kanika. “They’re easy to carry but attract a lot of attention,” she adds.

Works best for: “An environment where you know it might rain any time” says fashion designer Sonal Verma.

Cycling shorts + shirts with XL pocketsStay ready for a vacay

Sport the bike-everywhere style on your vacation

Wear it to: “Brunches, lunches or even meetings if they’re in fabrics for suits. It’s a great vacation must-have as they’re really comfortable,” says Sonal.

Offers form and function by: “Offering ease of movement because of Lycra and they’re durable and sweat-resistant too,” says Sonal.

Style it with: “Oversized shirts or long jerseys with large pockets. Activewear can look great outside the gym as well,” says Kanika.

Works best for: “Women with toned legs,” she concludes.

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From HT Brunch, May 5, 2019

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