Fashion bloggers share 6 ways to style a robe

Arlette Grao and Khushnaz Turner

As comfort continues to be the top priority for fashion lovers, robes are experiencing a resurgence in a much bigger way than ever before. No longer are these considered the top wardrobe choice for rich singles in 1980s television dramas - on the contrary, thanks to the profusion of colours, fabric choices and silhouettes that contemporary robes come in, fashion-forward dressers have found ingenious ways to wear robes outdoors and even to work. Robe-inspired silhouettes have even found a place on fashion runways, with Fendi's recent show featuring dressing gown-inspired coats that can be paired with their ‘outdoor' pyjamas. Those who have been rocking robes in their new-found avatar tell us how it's done.

. Bold fashion: "Go bold with your choice of colour and pick a sleek fabric such as silk or satin. A wine-hued robe in a flirty, shorter length can accentuate your legs. Add a belt to cinch in the waist and pair this with deep, bold lips. Tiny details such as kimono-style flared sleeves, embossing on the fabric, and a high collar or neck tie-up can take your look from boudoir chic to date night appropriate," says fashion blogger Anuradha Mohan. Pair the robe with heels or high boots.

Greeshma Thampi and Rahul Sridhar

.Soft glamour: Longer robes in plush fabrics such as velvet can easily be transformed into elegant evening wear, says fashion blogger Khushnaz Turner. "Drape the robe in a slightly asymmetrical fashion exposing a hint of shoulder. Lighter colours can be tricky to work with as the material could easily resemble towelling. To avoid this, choose fabrics with a subtle sheen or featuring delicate embroidery. Accessorise with a broad Obi belt and matching sky-high heels, as well as delicate gold or studded jewellery," she suggests.

.Sporty monochrome: Robes with attached hoods work quite well as street wear. Layer these with a plain white tee and fitted shorts, and accessorise with a cross-body bag and trendy trainers, preferably in the same colour, advises Brinda Shah, a fashion blogger. Sign off the look with a bold lip colour and brow, and minimal eye make-up.

Brinda Shah and Anuradha Mohan

.Colour block : A robe or robe-style coat can be the final layer of a work ensemble, says image consultant Greeshma Thampi. Choose a robe in a light knitted fabric for a sleeker silhouette and a bright colour. Pair this with dark grey or black pants and a solid-coloured tee or top along with comfortable flats. Add a thin belt for more definition and gold jewellery.

.Suited up : Thin cotton robes can be knotted at the waist for a chic but comfortable look, says model Arlette Grao. Pair this with linen trousers in the same colour and a white tee for a look that is effortlessly stylish. Men, too, can cash in on this trend with robe-style jackets worn over crisp white shirts and colour-coordinated pants. "Boxier, relaxed fits add to the laid-back vibe, without making you look under-dressed," says actor
Varun Pande.

Varun Pande

.Patterns and prints: Rapper and stand-up comic Rahul Sridhar says, "My partner bought this Frida Kahlo-themed robe from a thrift store and I was instantly
attracted to the vibrant print and playful colours," Robes with quirky prints can be thrown over an otherwise simple tee and jeans ensemble to dress up the look.