Anupama Dayal
“Be discerning and go for things which will take you through several fashion seasons. Invest in a fabulous stole— a Pashmina, a Naga or a Gujarati one which will add a touch of character to your entire look. A great pair of slouchy boots is next on my list. In the West, the white shirt is a fashion institution, but it doesn’t work so well in the Indian context. Next in line is a great long jacket, preferably by an Indian designer and finally, the best, most flattering pair of jeans that you can find.”

Prashant Verma
“My list is more metaphysical. I would say the five fashion essentials for 2009 would be confidence—to face the upheavals we’re bound to see this year; and restraint, in how we spend. Masculinity, and not androgyny, will be in, for both men and women. People will dress more starkly and therefore, a more defined, tough look is in. So that’s third on my list. My last two essentials will include refinement where people will know how to draw a balance between simplicity and over-the-top clothes and hope, because without it, nothing is what it should be.”

Nainika Karan
It’s very simple. If you have a pair of platform boots, a nice trench coat, cashmere leggings, a couple of sweater dresses and big sunglasses, you are all set to wish 2009 a warm welcome.”

Varun Bahl
“Invest in basics. Opt for layering in a garment rather than layering with different items of clothing. Sheer clothing will be a wardrobe must-have in 2009. I don’t see too much of colour in the next few seasons, so invest in darker colours. Trousers are set to be back in a big way, so it should find prominence in your wardrobe. Finally, shorter length for most ensembles will be in.”