The monsoons may not be on in full swing
but the heavy drizzles have started and the ominous grey clouds are rumbling
in, reminding you that it’s time to get your raingear out… and get your
monsoon shopping done before the marketplaces get any muckier! While every
other season has its unique style and fashion line, the monsoons are also
catching up. True, most of the things we wear have to be waterproof, but with
the different styles of rainy footwear and gear available in the market,
getting stylish these rains is not so difficult. With a palette of bright
colours and a wide range of styles to choose from, a fashionista can find
numerous ways of adding cheer to the gloomy season.
Since the rains are not on in full swing
yet, it is the ideal time to venture into the market. A shopkeeper selling
shoes at the Panjim market says, “If there were heavy showers in the first week
of June, the market would be overcrowded with people hurrying to buy footwear
for the rains. However, now the sales are still slow, allowing customers to
shop at leisure.” Noticing a trend, he adds, “Most people prefer buying
coloured footwear for the first few months of the season but stop using them by
the month of October. A better option is to buy basic colours like black and
blue that go well throughout the season.”
The market is presently a paradise for
footwear lovers. You can choose from bellies, gladiators, gumboots, Mary Janes,
peep-toes, crocs and sandals. Vibrant coloured wedges are one of the must-haves
this season. “Though it is safe to wear flats in the rain to avoid slipping on
wet surfaces, wedges and heels are preferred for certain occasions. The colours
go well with different outfits. College students prefer the neon pinks, greens
and blues to add colour to their college wear,” says a salesman at Shooz in
Panjim.
The umbrella is another item you just can’t
leave home without, and even it has donned a more fashionable avatar. You can
do away with the boring black umbrella for bold colours like reds, pinks and
oranges. There are umbrellas with lovely lace trimmings and one can even pick a
solid sober colour or opt for prints. Polka dot prints are also catching on.
Those who prefer raincoats, also have many
more options to choose from. Be proud to own a pink raincoat while riding your
bike in the rains as you will find colours for girls too. Animal prints are
also making their entry in the world of raingear. Raincoats and jackets are
also available in slim fit sizes to give the perfect fit. A representative of
Zeel rainwear says, “There are varieties of raincoats, jackets and pants
options. Most two-wheeler riders opt for either a jacket and pant or a poncho
style raincoat.”
Goans are creative and experimental when it
comes to fashion. So try out different combinations and styles to look your
best and stand out amidst the showers.

