Summer Coolers

Nitin Bal Chauhan has put out his largely grungy denim collection in his open wardrobe at his Malviya Nagar studio from where he retails. On display is a largely grungy,denim-inspired collection,sometimes ripped all the way down. There are graphic tees,often embroidered with shiny studs. Chauhan has reaffirmed his Capital connections — the tees have been inspired by the upcoming Commonwealth Games and feature trucks,pillars and even labourers on construction work sites. The tees begin at Rs 700 while trousers are pegged at Rs 4,500. “Men too are looking for excitement in fashion and this collection is completely inspired by the urban life,with a casual approach. The trousers are mostly slim-fits and I have worked with cotton and lycra,” says Chauhan.

On the other hand,flamboyant designer Rohit Bal has put comfort first this summer,choosing to showcase revealing vests,zippered jackets and open shirts tucked in short trunks at his recent comeback show. Bal has worked with a light version of velvet which ensures maximum comfort. His collection,a celebration of black,has lightweight work wear suits. There are also a few embroidered party suits in burgundy. “It’s sleek and basic,” gushed Bal.

Meanwhile,Italian brand Giovani has taken the palette from bleak to cheery,with splashes of yellows and greens. The line is un-fussy with a range of fitted suits,shirts and summer jackets in cool shades. Check out a lemon-yellow linen shirt pegged at Rs 1,400. “This collection is city-smart,but also very comfortable. We have a range of cufflinks with silver finish that can go with the shirts. The USP of the label is good affordable clothing,” says Shalini Nair,marketing head,Giovani. The suits are pegged at Rs 6,000 while jackets begin at Rs 3,000.

However,it’s the celebrated English designer Paul Smith who’s put the fun back in the brooding menswear with his travel-inspired collection. Check out the beach sandals and black,floral-printed shorts (Rs 6,600) and the colourful,checked,long swim shorts (Rs 8,500). You can also pick up a trilby hat at Rs 4,000. Kenzo,on the other hand,has a sporty collection with shorts in camouflage print pegged at Rs 11,000.