I often look back at my past fashion choices and marvel at how much my style has evolved throughout the years. I spent my teens and twenties wearing bodycon dresses, skintight jeans, and belly-baring tops. Fitting rooms were deemed unnecessary, as I had my sights set on one size only: extra small. Anything roomier was seen as frumpy in my eyes.
It wasn’t until I hit my thirties that I noticed a drastic change in the way I purchased clothing. I started reaching for large and medium sizes, even when my friends insisted I was a small. Not because I have body image issues, but because I love draped styles and relaxed fits that allow me to move easily about my day. I no longer have to spend the entire day “sucking in” while wearing restricting clothing. Now, loose apparel actually seems more flattering on my figure. I love the feeling of my limbs “drowning” in baggy harem pants and billowy button-down shirts.
Is my change of heart due to the fact that body-hugging clothing no longer feels age-appropriate? Have I lost my confidence the more my metabolism slows? Perhaps, my priorities have shifted because I prefer comfort over presentation. I’d like to think my transition was fueled by my increasing admiration for Japanese designers like Yohji Yamamoto’s tailored, yet oversized silhouettes and Comme de Garcon’s larger-than-life aesthetic. My taste in eveningwear has deviated from Hervé Léger’s bandage dresses to Chloe’s bohemian maxis and Max Azria’s breezy frocks that allow me to move freely on a dance floor (and eat dessert).
So, I was thrilled when I attended last night’s Vogue India Fashion Fund at The St. Regis. Freedom of movement ran consistent throughout each of the shows featuring designs from Kanika Goyal, Rara Avis, Rina Singh, Vriksh, and Huemn (winner of the Vogue India Fashion Fund).
My personal favourite of the night was the Lovebirds collection by Amrita Khanna and Gursi Sing (below) whose fluid styles had the high-fashion structure, but free-flowing comfort that I crave. My soul (and body) were elated.
What is your favourite fashion silhouette? Tell us in the comments below!