No more OTT, please

Ritu Kumar: Fashion trends in 2009 will reflect the general mood of the country and the market conditions. Mix-and-match will be in. Accessories will not be reserved for that special look and will be a part of everyday wear. We���ll see the return of traditionalism and individual tastes will find an expression in clothing. Extravagant dos will make way for much lower profile events and, fashion, consequently, will be more conservative.As for colours, a lot of white will be used in the coming months and eco-friendly fabrics will find greater acceptance. Currently, I���m designing lots of tunics, capris and cotton trousers. The year 2008 saw some over-the-top dressing and use of polyester mix, something one should keep away from in 2009.
Sanchita Ajjampur: The recession will not influence the look too much, unlike the depression of 1929, which sent hemlines up. But people will be less extravagant and may cut down on budgets. People are tightening their belts, but getting more focused on style. Silhouettes will be 1950s style. The colours will be warm, like Indian spices, ecru white and greens that are subtle. There may be juxtaposed garments, big bows to tie up, connect and close garments. The classic look will stay. My cruise collection has bikinis and kaftans in pink and other bright colours. There are also coral, black and white and a new khaki colour. The motifs are 1940s, animal, dragonfly and horseshoe patterns. In my main collection, I have bejewelled bags, platinum embroidery and stiff cloths such as cambric and poplin. For the evening, there are long skin gowns.
Varun Bahl: Harem pants, layering and fish cuts will be a big no-no. Lengths are going short and minimalism is back. No-fuss, easy, functional clothes should be the preferred choice. It���s all toned down with the idea of getting back to basics. Keep away from anything heavy or complicated.
Samant Chauhan: The coming year will witness a decline in the use of embellishments with a greater emphasis on texture. One will see many new fabrics being used with new treatments. In 2008, the sugar-and-ice treatment was in. But next year, the Victorian look will be popular among women. Sleek slim-fit trousers for men will continue to find acceptance. Peach and various shades of purple will be the colours of the year. The use of metallic colours like gold and silver will come down, while bronze will be favoured. Big bags are certainly here to stay.
Zubair Kirmani: Be yourself; just mix and match. In 2009, bright colours like indigo and red will see greater use, in addition to the ever-popular white. The silhouettes will be simple and people will prefer easy-to-wear clothing. Men���s fashion will be discreet, classic yet impressive. Fabrics like linen for men will be preferred for loungewear. Trousers will continue to be slim and tapered at the bottom. Caps will be in too.