Go with the flow !

With two or three consecutive seasons of loud, box-y clothing, the flowy silhouettes have started to appeal to the masses and delicate style of clothing has started emerging on the ramps again. In a time where majority trends involve popping colours and shapeless silhouettes, a graceful drape catches the eye! Playing with the lines of fabric, a drapery can be given to almost any part of a garment - giving it a stylish throw.

Initially a flowy look was given only to party outfits and dressy occasion outfits, but lately we can see inspirations taken in street style or formal clothing too. Personally, I feel minor elements of drapery in an otherwise simple apparel give it a rather aesthetic appeal. Moreover, tunics or even bottom wear which have a slight flow in the entirety of the garment have a very pretty, summer-y vibe. 

First comes the delicate, soft style in which a flowy silhouette can be constructed. These looks can be achieved using the woven fabrics like satin, organza, net, georgette or chiffon. A little bit of sheen added to these fabrics can give a very rich look to the outfit. Fabrics like this can be used in tunics, skirts, formal shirts for women or palazzos. For bifurcated bottom wear, the ‘flow’ would have to be all the way. But for skirts, it could be flowy entirely, or have elements like peplum or layers that have a flowy look. For formal shirts or dressy tunics, one could have flowy sleeves or a flowy bodice. 

Second come the heavier flowy garments. The medium - weight yet flimsy wovens like linen, silk, rayon or bulkier knits are the main fabrics used for this category of apparel. Linen dresses with asymmetric silhouettes, cotton summer gowns or dresses - all have been exceedingly seen in the streets since the last season. Knits also are used to make flowy garments like baggy tops or shrugs. 

A flow/drape can also be an external element to any outfit. Since ages, we see women adorning scarfs, shawls, stoles etc. Lately, we also see an attachment of drapery given to either a top or bottom wear which can then be draped over the shoulder or around the waist. The best part of a drape is, one can personalise the way they want to do it. It opens up a plethora of styles that can be seen on the streets because it allows the user to alter the look of the outfit according to their own taste.