Day Three started with Square Loop, Lovebirds, Munkee.See.Munkee.Doo and Armaan Aiman who presented a variety Of fashion At Lakmé  Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015

​

SQUARE LOOP SOLVED THE DILEMMA OF VERSATILE HANDBAG OPTIONS AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

Mumbai, 20 March, 2015: Want a bag with multipurpose functions? Wouldn't you like a bag for all seasons? Look no further because "Square Loop" by Kanika Sachdeva will solve all these problems. With minimal styling but offering a clean design sensibility, the brand displayed everything that was contemporary and unisex.  

Back packs, weekend duffels and laptop bags had all the functionality and space desired. For some glam offerings there were clutches, satchels, totes and delightful small accessories like waist pouches. Keeping the shapes to either square, rectangular or barrel, the collection was a mix of the best for evening and travel use.

SQUARE LOOP

Made from genuine leather with natural fine finish; the metal trimmings added to the pizzazz of the collection.  Keeping the colours natural for easy mix-and-match use, there were skin tones in smoky or deep shades.

Whether one is the conventional or adventurous buyer, the accessories from "Square Loop" by Kanika Sachdeva will satisfy all desires.

LOVEBIRDS SHOWCASED A BALANCED SIMPLE COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

"Lovebirds" the label by Amrita Khanna and Gursi Singh brought a balanced fashion dimension on the ramp at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Pure simple lines, minimalized layering, but oversized silhouettes were highlighted with geometry. Picking cotton as the base fabric there were options like active viscose, sturdy denim, mélange and silk georgette for the garments that were visually perfect with normcore straight lines creating the right fashion aesthetics.

With horizontal lines as the major theme running through the garments; the easy silhouettes were ideal for the summer heat. Colours moved from white, to black, grey, cobalt blue and hint of orange. Opening with a white calf-length shift followed by a horizontal striped blue shirt/sack, georgette kurta over tank top, drawstring skirt with a loose jacket and a cropped jumpsuit, the collection had a distinct style statement.

LOVEBIRDS

The orange layered top with a grey pencil skirt, pleated wide culottes and dusty brown sack dress worked well into the range. The three men's wear entries were unisex in nature, as shirt tail long tunic with striped pants, grey top/cool pants and the black/white drop crotch wide trousers fitted perfectly into the season.

When women and men want minimal elements, with maximum impact, "Lovebirds" by Amrita Khanna and Gursi Singh will score high on the fashion charts.

TERESA LAISOM AND UTSAV PRADHAN'S CONTEMPORARY URBAN LINE HAD FASHION CONTRASTS AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

The label "Munkee.See.Munkee.Doo" by Teresa Laisom and Utsav Pradhan was inspired by contrast factors for this collection during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Report 2015.

Combining the theme of sweetness and violence with the increasing crime rate against women, the duo presented a fashionable twist to the subject by adding weapon prints to their ensembles.

Playing with cottons and shades of blue, mint, lavender and charcoal but inspired by the work of digital artist Hsiao-Ron Cheng; the pair unleashed a line of dresses, jumpsuits and blouses with the gun motif embroidered prominently in all its fierce form. Balancing the collection were assorted pleats that gave the garments a hint of feminine flounce.

Munkee.See.Munkee.Doo

Side pleats appeared for a white blouse, while the gun print was the highlight of a layered shift. Pleats moved from the sides to the front of the garments and then onto the hem. The double breast blouse had a pleated peplum, a black midi sported white sleeves and side pleat detailing, but the pink layered straight dress looked stylish in its stark design.

Making a strong fashion statement with clothes is what Teresa Laisom and Utsav Pradhan achieved creatively for their label "Munkee.See.Munkee.Doo".

AIMAN AGHA AND ARMAAN RANDHAWA CREATED DELICATE FASHION NUANCES AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

The theme of the collection was dark, revolving around an isolated, secret scientific experimental lab in a dense forest inhabited by alligators and hummingbirds.

But what emerged on the ramp was an utterly beautiful feminine take on the inspiration by Aiman Agha and Armaan Randhawa for their label 'Armaan Aiman' at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Using pretty pastel tones of powder pink, coral, mint, metallic green and gold; the pair kept the silhouettes boxy, coat-like with apron inspired ties and pockets that reflected the lab theme.

The beautiful appliqués on mesh/gauze, silk and cotton of swirling alligators and humming birds in flight were strategically placed on the garment to make an ethereal impact.

The dramatic flora and fauna were entwined to give the embellishments on the creations a unique elegant flavour.

AIMAN AGHA AND ARMAAN RANDHAWA

Pretty pink appliqués of the alligators and hummingbirds looked great on a long sleeved jacket teamed with gold gathered skirt and coral zippered blouse. The midi front button dress with zippered pockets, the shirt tail double hem tunic worn with rib hemmed pants and the sheer gown with long sleeves over gold pants gave varied versions of the theme.

Comfy back sashed blouse or tunic, ivory pencil skirt with cascading pink appliqués teamed with a gold shirt, knotted hem shaded white/pink maxi and a boxy cross-over trendy dress with lavish work were the eye-catchers of the collection.

The colour option moved to pale sheer green for a long sleeved maxi, short cropped shirt over gold shorts and sheer skirt and the addition of a round hem blouse with gold pants and jacket were a fresh take on the look.

When it comes to beautifully crafted clothes this summer, Aiman Agha and Armaan Randhawa for their label 'Armaan and Aiman' have a great fashion list.

DRVV By Dhruv Kapur, Ikai By Ragini Ahuja And Quirk Box By Rixi Bhatia And Jayesh Sachdev were three Trend Setting Labels that Rocked the ramp at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015

DRVV BY DHRUV KAPUR DRESSED IT DOWN WITH HIS NEW COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT WEAR 2015

Mumbai, 20 March 2015: Retaliating in the most fashion forward way possible, Dhruv Kapur introduced his collection 'Undress Code' for the brand DRVV at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

This collection by the designer was built around a basic objective to protest against the restraints that have often kept a woman from being her own person with individuality. Deconstruction of garments created a new fashion statement where the message was loud and clear.

The silhouettes in itself were chic and told a different story with every ensemble that walked out. With straight and structured cut-outs, the "undress" also achieved the deconstruction look. This was by creating garments falling off the body and strategically placed zips, to recreate a 'torn and allowed to show the skin' or lining underneath concept.

DRVV BY DHRUV KAPUR

A white will-power dress was teamed with a deconstructed jacket, gown with cut-outs and zip detailing on the sides and the black halter dress with a draped back, fitted perfectly into the theme of the show.

Fabrics used to interpret this statement-making collection were smooth cotton poplin, cotton-silk blend with one side poplin and one side satin (to reduce bulk and create styles without lining for the summer), silk satin, silk chiffon, handwoven raw silk from Andhra Pradesh and lightweight wool voile. The colours that complemented the theme were white, cream, black, and soft peach in some accents.

The created textures involved, were basket weave of silk satin strips, created by hand in-house. The elements of the designs that stood out, were the zip detailing at the seams that depicted a ripped-off look impeccably. Refashioned suits and shirt gave the whole range of clothing a new contemporary look.

Dhruv Kapur's collection 'Undress Code' was effortless, classic, avant garde, fashionably on-point and radiated a powerful message to all of womankind.

RAGINI AHUJA WITH THE IKAI LABEL WORKED HER MAGIC AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015.

Importing her inspiration from overseas, Ragini Ahuja for her 'Ikai' label dazzled with her collection "Tribe" at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Bringing forth her love for different cultures and traditions, ace designer, Ragini was highly influenced by Japanese ethics. Creating an amalgamation of the old and new, the collection was born with a futuristic oriental backdrop.

After her collection "Metal" at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014, she took a bold new step as she ventured into more traditionally based attire.

Silhouettes that flattered the theme of this collection and were the focal point consisted of boxy anti-fits with leather appliqués, Obis and elegantly tasselled accessories. Japanese cranes, cherry blossoms, staple waves against the big red dot and old-world Sashiko patterns were merged together to form ethnic thread and appliqué artworks for the collection. Kimono cut shirts and tunics, pleated pants and skirts and big boxy dresses formed the crux of the collection.

RAGINI AHUJA for IKAI 

The shades of colours chosen were subtle beige, grey, powdery blue and navy paired with Japanese blood red, which complemented the collection with ambiguous dexterity.

Creations that captivated were the navy blue high waist bikini with white polka dots grouped together with a sheer striped overcoat jacket. The black and white printed bralet and midi box pleated skirt with white stitched detailing had a marked tribal look.

Trendsetting and contemporary, "Tribe" by Ragini Ahuja for her label Ikai should be 'a must' in every diva's closet, which will make them feel confident and international.

QUIRK BOX BY RIXI BHATIA AND JAYESH SACHDEV PITCHED IN ON THE GLOBETROTTING TREND AT LAKME FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015.

Designers Rixi Bhatia and Jayesh Sachdev from Quirk Box took the audience on the ride of a lifetime with their collection "Wanderlust" at Lakmé Fashion Week Sumer/Resort 2015.

Originally an art print collection, inspired by the postcards of the world, the dynamic duo turned it into a clothing line that had the audience wanting more. They stayed true to the quirkiness and conceptualised something different from the colour blocking and loud hues from the previous season. Galvanized by the world undiscovered, the compilation was based on the adventure of unseen mountains, seas, people and different cultures and unheard music.

The contemporary art with an overlay of romanticism gave allurement to the urban-chic silhouettes that featured statement prints and intricate detailing. The colour story displayed a transition from subtle pastels to brightly popped colours through the course of the show.

QUIRK BOX BY RIXI BHATIA AND JAYESH SACHDEV

Mint scarves, bralets, pleated jackets, fishtail skirts and bell sleeved tops were the highlights of the compilation in tones like mint, white and colourful prints. A sleeveless lapelled jacket with a cropped top and midi skirt, bell sleeved multicoloured pleated calf length skirt and the printed long flowing cape, top, and shorts trio had a marked summer feel.

Added to the elegant trousseau, were the high-in-function accessories, which contributed to the modern aesthetics, something of grave importance to the urban traveller.

"Wanderlust" by Quirk Box founders Rixi Bhatia and Jayesh Sachdev was free-spirited and left fashion conscious individuals lusting after it.

Nitya Arora, Nikhil Thampi and Nimish Shah displayed accessories and great fashion at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015

Nitya Arora’s jewellery collection for her ‘Valliyan’

20 March, 2015, Mumbai: Known for her innovatively designed accessories that have captivated women globally, Nitya Arora’s jewellery collection for her ‘Valliyan’ label was a glitzy show at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015

Nitya Arora’s jewellery collection for her ‘Valliyan’

Nitya’s latest collection was an irresistible range called “Iridescent Space”, which had strong inspirations like Star Wars and the Galactic world. Full of futuristic touches, the label revealed impressive imagery of the White Army, Space Stations and Jedis in the ornaments. Made predominantly in silver with sudden bursts of gold and gunmetal, the shimmering Swarovski crystals added colour and a hint of the fourth dimension from the theme.

Adding earthy semi-precious stones with a marked marble effect, the collection was pure retro space age. It was apparent from the impressive display on the ramp that gorgeous jewellery that spoke a language all its own is Nitya’s forté each season.

Nitya Arora’s jewellery collection for her ‘Valliyan’

Body harnesses, cuffs, star burst tiaras, ear cuffs, palm bracelets, danglers, Maang tikka, tiara-cum-headbands, finger-cum-cuffs, danglers and multi necklace chokers recreated the mood. A nose pin was a great jewel addition to the face; while armlets and the solar system pendants were dramatic entries. The final giant galaxy harness, which rose from the back of the model like a halo, the entwining arm bracelets along with the blinding glitter of the ornaments were a great end to a stunning collection. 

For the woman who wants to rule as a modern day Princess Leia on terra firma with her trend setting style, Nitya Arora’s “Iridescent Space” collection for her ‘Valliyan’ label will win her many fashion battles with ease.

NIKHIL THAMPI BROUGHT BOLLYWOOD’S COLOURFUL NOSTALGIC 1990’S GLAMOUR ON THE CATWALK AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

When a collection is inspired by the nostalgic Bollywood glamour of the 1990’s it has to rock the ramp. Nikhil Thampi kept the tempo upbeat as the iconic songs of that era with their foot tapping beat inspired his creativity for a colourful line.

NIKHIL THAMPI

Heavily influenced by songs like Tip Tip Barsa Paani (Mohra), Saat Samundar (Vishwatama), Tamma Tamma (Thanedar) Jhuma Chumma (Hum) and Muqualbala (Hum se hai Muquabala); Nikhil took the key elements of the clothes worn during those songs for his “Light, Camera, Fashion” collection at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Reflective lamé and shimmer fabrics were the leading stars of the show with shades of yellow, white and black being the supporting cast. The colour story finally ended the action on the ramp, in a burst of hues like gold and gunmetal dazzling metallic shades.

NIKHIL THAMPI

Giving a fun filled modern twist to shapes, Nikhil revealed structured semi Indian silhouettes, flowing maxis, gowns, soft blazers and waist coats.

The show opened with the sun yellow line of bandaged, pre-stitched sari, halter choli and sarong, slit plunge neck gown and a one-shoulder backless number. Leather accents were prominent when they appeared as bands on bodice to hold figure hugging maxis or as harnesses for midi creations.

NIKHIL THAMPI

The cross over long sleeved gold cropped top matched with white bell- bottoms, the gold pantsuit and the leather bra under a shimmering jacket and pant were dazzlers on the catwalk.

Giant lapels gave the gleaming trench coat a masculine touch but the black/gold halter leather strapped jumpsuit revealed a perfect lounge wear vibe. For the finale it was the gold and gunmetal lamé gowns with high slits and leather straps enticingly wrapped around the bodice that were risqué but oh so sexy!

NIKHIL THAMPI

For women who want to relive the riotous colourful days of the 1990’s with Bollywood glamour; then they must add some action with “Light, Camera, Fashion” by Director Nikhil Thampi.

NIMISH SHAH SHOWCASED AN EXCITING TRAVEL WARDROBE AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

Making life really easy and practical for the global traveller, Nimish Shah for his ‘Shift’ label presented a perfect summer wardrobe at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Separates were the key feature of the collection that could be mixed and matched not only effortlessly but also packed and maintained with the minimum of bother and care.

Nimish Shah for ‘Shift’

To make the ensembles ideal for visiting various parts of the globe and still allowing the woman to remain well-dressed, Nimish chose airy cottons, stylish linens, luxurious cotton silks, organic cottons and khadi. Adding prints, Nimish turned the fabrics into vibrant textiles as abstract florals gave a fashionable lift to the apparel. The prints were a delicate mix of abstract floral, matte pastels that gave the collection a gentle mood.

Nimish Shah for ‘Shift’

Colours remained cool and summery with matte pastels like ash, lavender, dusty pink and off-white, creating the right mood for the line. When it came to silhouettes, Nimish kept them simple and basic with short suits, column dresses, ‘A’ line midis and recreated tunics with interesting proportions.

Very interesting separates gave the collection a versatile flavour as midi dresses with low cut arm holes, linen suiting for the summer suits, column dresses, peasant tops and the tunics were easy options for the soaring mercury. The simple zigzag print appeared for layered sleeve sack dress, dolman sleeve column creation and strappy midi. Shirt-waist, front-open military dress and drop waist pleated vision were part of the practical travel wardrobe.

Nimish Shah for ‘Shift’

Drawstring trousers and soft coat were teamed with a summer bustier and tiny appliqués on a white dress added to the cool fashion story. A smudgy print midi, princess line blouse, pearl studded white low cut armhole midi and crépe yellow gown would be ideal summer brunch dressing choices.

Nimish Shah for ‘Shift’

Travel easy; travel light, declared Nimish Shah with his stylish well designed wardrobe that had great fashion directions.

Lakme Fashion Week Summer Resort 2015 Day 1 part 1

Hey Peeps, I know this comes a bit late but better late than never right. :-)

Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 kicks off with a stunning Makeup Show by Lakmé
Sculpted Looks, Shraddha Kapoor and India’s first ever real-time makeup app ruled the ramp at the show
Mumbai, 18th March 2015: From beauty statements that will inspire summer trends like never before to a revolutionary innovation in makeup, the Lakmé Makeup Show presented the best of beauty on Day 1 of the Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015. Celebrating 15 years of fashion and beauty, Lakmé kick started this season with a one-of-its-kind show curated by Lakmé expert Natasha Nischol, as models strutted down the ramp in DRVV’s collection. In line with the Lakmé beauty statement, Natasha presented ‘the evolution of ‘Sculpt’ with avant garde looks, each reiterating makeup as an art form. Playing muse to the experts was Lakmé’s face Shraddha Kapoor.

Lakme' Make up Show 

Lakme' Make up Show - Shradha Kapoor

The biggest highlight of the show was the launch of Lakmé’s revolutionary Makeup Pro App, the first of its kind, a real-time virtual makeover app with the complete palette of shades and looks across the Lakmé portfolio. From prepping the skin to applying makeup, this app lets you try how each product looks   on you digitally. Lakmé’s prostylist looks created by makeup experts, including the look that Shraddha sported on the runway today, is the highlight of the app.  You can simply try the look in a single click.

Natasha brought alive various art forms in makeup looks - inspired by Sculpt – including etching, bronze, mosaic, clay and paint. Complementing these avant garde looks were Sculpt inspired hair-dos creatively presented by the Lakme Absolute Salon team.

Lakme' Make up Show 

“In our 15th year at Lakme Fashion Week, we reinvent make-up – presenting it as avant garde looks, in line with fashion.  The new hi-definition matte lipstick is the star of the Lakme Absolute Sculpt line – our trend forecast at Lakme Fashion Week for this season. Taking it one step further, we empower every Indian woman to experience this beauty trend first hand with the first of its’ kind - Lakmé Makeup Pro app. A true revolution in the world of makeup, this real-time Makeup Pro app promises to be the biggest blockbuster  in beauty and we are absolutely thrilled to bring it to all makeup lovers all over the country”, Purnima Lamba, Head of Innovation at Lakmé.

Lakme' Make up Show 

“Sculpt has indeed been a very exciting theme to work on. It gave me the artistic freedom to play around with structure and symmetry, while also being able to recreate the evolution of makeup. I am also very thrilled about the Lakmé Makeup Pro app, as it is a true delight to every beauty buff and will change the way we explore and create makeup looks.” said Natasha Nischol, Lakmé Makeup expert.

Lakme' Make up Show 

“Make up pro is an amazing app and I simply love experimenting with my favorite looks. Every time I have 5 min free during shoots, this is what I am using! It is extremely user friendly and helps me select colors and styles that compliment me, in an instant. I also love how I have access to all the Lakmé makeup right on my fingertips.” said Lakmé face Shraddha Kapoor.

RELIANCE FOOTPRINT PRESENTED THE STYLISH SUB-RANGE OF RESORT WEAR BY SAILEX
AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

Mumbai 18 2015: Sailex stunned all with his sensual and straight, but stylish collection presented by Reliance Footwear at Jabong Stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015. The very interesting sub-range of affordable resort wear created a stir among the audience.
The designer focused on both men and women's resort wear incorporating a relaxed yet tailored feel to each piece.
Inspired by his trademark design and vibe of his previous collections; the silhouettes consisted of flirty skirts, stylish dresses, gowns, shorts, jumpsuits, maxis, jackets and tops.
Shades of blush pink, periwinkle blue, olive green and gorgeous grey dominated the colour palette and worked to make this range both classy and colourful; while also giving it a versatile edge. The designer also translated his distinct embroidery into a series of prints both geometrical and floral in nature that will appeal to the global buyer.

Sailex

Versatile fabrics like cotton, linen, organza, chiffon and satin were carefully cut and balanced out with elegant embellishments like fish hook detailing, prints and subtle texturing. Intriguingly placed buttons at unexpected places added an element of surprise and were further accentuated with simple, clean cuts.
High waist bikini bottom shorts paired with low cut tops having floral prints and see through jackets for women were a trademark of the collection; while the men sported casual shorts paired with formal shirts and open coats in a mix of geometry-meets-nature prints.
Hook eye embellishments from his Spring/Summer 2014 collection along with the cherry blossom print from his Autumn/Winter 2013-14 line, made a surprise appearance on the runway in interesting new avatars.
Perfect for both evening and day wear, the designer crafted each piece with precision and care with an eye for detail and flair for artistic drama.

Sailex with Vaani Kapoor

The showstopper was Vani Kapoor star of 'Shuddh Desi Romance' who walked the runway in an ethereal strapless pale blue gown adorned by floral prints.
Balanced, contemporary and gritty, Sailex's collection presented by Reliance Footprint will have any fashion God or Goddess feeling ready to take on the world and any runway!

INIFD opened on day one of Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 with six new Gen Next stars and their stunning collections

18 March 2015, Mumbai: The 19th edition of the Gen Next stars opened Day One at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 with a show presented by INIFD. Mentored by ace couturier Anita Dongre, the six designers who will rock the fashion business in future, showed collections that were a fabulous mix of creativity, style, innovations and trend setting directions.

ALAN ALEXANDER KALEEKAL – A NEW FASHION DIMENSION
Creating an impact on the ramp was a very interesting collection that illustrated how a child would reinterpret an adult wardrobe. So Alan Alexander Kaleekal, a graduate from Studio Bereot Paris for his label ‘Kaleekal’ gave an innovative dimension to fashion and clothing. Moving away from specific norms of fashion and categories, Alan’s line was an eye-catching offering of stylish clothes.
Using a colour story of ecru and black, there were sheer/solid tie-up dress, cotton boxy tunic, cut-away overall with cropped top and a rear back tie-up tunic with shorts. The clever mix of solids and sheers was beautifully blended into the creations to give an almost ethereal, oriental yet comfortable feel to the garments. Intricate construction and some tricky tie-ups added to the overall dramatic appeal of the line.

ALAN ALEXANDER KALEEKAL

 ANKIT CARPENTER – TIMELESS CLEAN CONSTRUCTION

Giving feminine and classic touches to his creations for his label ‘Greusha’, Ankit Carpenter’s collection focused on timeless clean construction and silhouettes. Inspired by the cactus, the outfits exuded sophisticated elegance, luxury and comfort, yet had a wild streak and beauty that will appeal to women who adore understated elegance.

Bright yellow was the opening for a will-powered gathered dress followed by yellow and white jumpsuit, one-shoulder origami inspired mini and the acid green georgette dress.

The white long-sleeved shirt that was teamed with a yellow ‘Skort’ was a great addition, a simple pant suit was a classic and the final acid green tonal embroidered gown was the glamorous end to the show. What were truly eye-catching were the half masks and black exotic net head gear that gave the collection an avant garde feel.

ANKIT CARPENTER

KANIKA GOYAL – PROVOCATIVE MINIMALISM

Inspired by the stillness of the night and the wild instincts that the time evokes, Kanika Goyal’s collection called “Creatures of the Night” had a unique identity, which had a blend of provocative minimalism. A graduate of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi and Fashion Styling at University of Arts London; Kanika’s collection had contrasts that managed to come together seamlessly.

Using glass nylon, polyester satin, denim, Lycra, lamb leather and cow hide in shades of white, beige as well as lilac, the designer showed a line that had a clever mix of the textures. The twisted collar shirt for men, the panelled denim jumpsuit for the ladies, foiled leather top with thigh-high slit sheer pencil skirt and the imaginative use of shattered glass print gave the collection an innovative touch.

KANIKA GOYAL

MANISH BANSAL – NEW AGE MEN’S WEAR

With a Masters in Fashion Design Technology in menswear it was but natural that Manish Bansal revealed the finer points of men’s clothes. Inspired by the suit of cards as well as the one worn by the corporate head honcho, Manish gave the term ‘suits’ a new dimension. His collection depicted suits that are attached to the word ‘gamble’. Blending past and present fashion statements, Manish offered the New Age Male umpteen stylish options.

Using felting as an appliqué for the men’s wear with an off-white and grey story, the designer showed knit kurta with kangaroo pockets, shorts, Bermudas with racer back tank, shirts with a single embellished sleeve sporting the playing card casino print, zippered blouson and thigh-long coat with discreet prints. The final double breasted jacket over a pleated skirt with the casino print was Manish’s way of giving men’s wear an innovative yet slightly feminine touch.

MANISH BANSAL

PRIYANKA ELLA LORENA LAMA – CONSTRAINED IMPERFECTIONS

Graduating from the National Institute of Fashion Technology Bengaluru, Priyanka Ella Lorena Lama presented an inspired collection from the mythical ‘Utopia’. Her label P.E.L.L.A. attempts at presenting clothes that are imaginative, inspired and innovative on all fronts. Her ensembles had that unconventional quality that is aimed to create aesthetics via constrained imperfections but with a restrained design story.

Presenting a collection with natural fabrics that was almost meditative in nature, inspired by the opening of the chakras, the silks and jacquards in a white story had simple organic shapes that flowed around the body. Draped Zen like kimonos, kaftans with long trails, wrap-around oriental creation with looped back, ballooning sleeves, dress with rouched draped cover, rolled collar cloak and the final batwing long kaftan, created magic on the ramp.

PRIYANKA ELLA LORENA LAMA

SALITA NANDA – ARTY FASHION

Inspired by Picasso’s cubist painting ‘Les Demoiselles D’vignon’ Salita Nanda’s “Demoiselles” collection was designed for the young stylish woman. Salita worked with digital prints and a series of 3D printed fabrics that highlighted the artistic angle of the collection with a touch of pop.

A graduate in Fashion Business from London College of Fashion University of the Arts and a diploma holder in Fashion Design from Milan Fashion Campus; Salita creatively brought out the African undertones in Picasso’s painting with prints and symbols that portrayed love, beauty and strength.

Off-white was the base of the collection for the artistic prints, which appeared on jumpsuit, cropped top, skirt, an unusual boxy rectangular tube over skirt, wrap around shorts, appliquéd printed maxi and a striking off-shoulder cropped top with a lampshade shaped skirt.

 The final ribbed transparent white skirt with printed cape over jumpsuit completed the very dramatic and colourful collection.

SALITA NANDA

VERB BY PALLAVI SINGHEE, SURENDRI BY YOGESH CHAUDHARY AND ILK BY SHIKHA GROVER AND VINITA ADHIKARI ADDED NEW FASHION DIMENSIONS

AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

ULTRA CHIC COLLECTION - PART DEUX WAS SHOWCASED BY DESIGNER PALLAVI SINGHEE FOR HER LABEL VERB AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

Pallavi Singhee for her label “Verb” presented a flawless compilation called ‘A La Suite’, at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 which was an extension of her previous Spring/Summer line ‘J’aime La Vie - I Love Life’.

The objective behind the collection was to make exquisite clothes with a single aim - to make women feel more confident and gorgeous, which was reflected in the silhouettes and functionality of the ensembles.

The show commenced with three groups of looks ranging from brunch attire, youthful blacks and whites to evening and resort dresses. The apparel were textured and colour blocked with limes and blues that merged into blacks and whites, which were finished off with baby pinks, lush blossom and mint pinks.

VERB BY PALLAVI SINGHEE

The fabrics encompassed materials like sheer Chantilly to organza, mul, chiffon and satin. The whimsical and sheer qualities were teamed with quilted silks and lace detailing. The silhouettes started with midi dresses, culottes, strappy tops, and went on to pleated quilted dresses. To add a dazzling touch, mirror work and zardozi gave the western silhouettes a desi feel.

Some of the ensembles that stood out were the mini sweetheart embroidered chiffon asymmetrical dress along with a three piece-outfit consisting of a wrapped uneven hemline skirt in satin, a pin tucked cross-back blouse paired with a cropped organza embroidered jacket.

The flamboyant Sagarika Ghatge star of the block buster “Chak de! India” graced the stage as a showstopper wearing an off-white organza, sheer midi dress heavily embroidered with Jaal in flower and leaf motifs.

Glamorous and beautifully poised, ‘A La Suite’ by Pallavi Singhee for her “Verb” label was the perfect treat for any fashion lover.

YOGESH CHAUDHARY TOOK A FASHIONABLE FLIGHT AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015.

Yogesh Chaudhary’s label ‘Surendri’ thrilled the awaiting audience with his latest collection ‘Mithu’ at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Delving into the inspiration drawn from colourful birds that had been haunting the mango trees near the ‘Surendri’ studio, Yogesh created ‘Mithu’. He made a conscious effort at designing a line that not just produced day dressing and resort ensembles; but also stayed true to the ethnic roots for bridal wear.

Varied fabrics and embroidered materials were used to form a vintage aesthetic. Drawing musings from parrots, the collection sported elements like jharoka backs, actual parrot motifs, feathered tails, and employed techniques like appliqué, foiling, flocking, hand and machine embroidery. The silhouettes paid homage to the modern Indian women and were greatly influenced by the past for a costume-like presentation that is usually admired in Indian evening wear.

YOGESH CHAUDHARY

'

The silhouettes featured looks like Sherwani trenches, kurta saris, jacketed lehengas, and a reinterpretation of the omnipresent dupatta in materials like net, satins and cottons with hints of parrot prints. The twin lehenga sets were featured with two models wearing a complete yellow and red lehenga with gold embroidered parrots and deeply cut backs on the blouses. Another combination that stood out, was the simple black sari with gold embroidered parrots paired with an elbow grazing blouse that looked both elegant and chic.

‘Mithu’ by Yogesh Chaudhary for his ‘Surendri’ label was impeccable and would be perfect for the Indian bride, as well as her friends and family.

ILK BY SHIKHA GROVER AND VINITA ADHIKARI EXHIBITED A DROP-DEAD GORGEOUS COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK 2015

Shikha Grover and Vinita Adhikari displayed their romanticized collection “Love me, Love me not” for their brand ILK during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Both the designers expressed their philosophy in a very poetically themed collection of apparel. Their designs took the audience to a world of duality and paradoxes, deceptions and illusions. The designs questioned the viewers to look beyond what they saw, to find empowerment in the unknown and invoke a love for the risqué.

ILK BY SHIKHA GROVER AND VINITA ADHIKARI

The collection showcased a unique technique of relaxed silhouettes, embellished with transparent fluidity, floral textures and seam inserts. The designer duo was consistent with their ILK signature style of adding textures to their fabrics of cotton, net and gauze while preserving the feminine feel to their designs.

The use of contrasting colours in the designs shone a light on their philosophy of duality. Colours like aqua and peach gave the garments a softer touch; while hues like black, grey and white resonated feelings of vigour and power lying beneath the ensembles.

The highlight of the collection was the white and black printed sari with a mint undertone. Another outfit that was attention grabbing was the body-con suit entirely embroidered with flowers and styled with a belt making it look effortlessly glamorous. 

This power packed, fashion-on-point collection called “Love Me, Love Me Not” by Shikha Grover and Vinita Adhikari for their label ILK sent out a strong, vibrant message - to always seek what lies beyond and to never undermine that which seems weak.

Lakme Fashion Week Summer/ Resort 2014- Day 1- part 1

The Lakme Fashion Week LFW is here guys and Mumbai is buzzing with blushed cheekbones, high heeled beauties and dapper and sensitive men. Designers, models, celebrities,fashionistas, divas,business owners,entrepreneurs, media and a plush venue, what a heady cocktail this is! Your blogger is there to witness, review and bring to you the best from this high octane, champagne drenched event....day after day!

So buckle up to go on the fast lane with me to see what the best in design in the country have to offer for this Summer/resort season of 2014.

DHRUV KAPUR’S MONOCHROMATIC COLLECTION HAD MINIMAL STYLISH ELEGANCE AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

Mumbai, 12^th March: Dhruv Kapur’s label DRVV for his collection reflected duplicity and duality in monochromes at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.

 To match the theme and mood of the ensembles, the fabrics he opted for, started with double sided crêpe, georgette, cotton sateen, organza, silk flat chiffon and twill but stayed away from dazzling embroidery and bright colours. Dhruv played with black, white, grey, silver-grey and beige for a stylishly simplistic collection which had a great story to tell.

The contrast French cuff and built in bow shirt in poplin seen below is my pick from the womens offerings.

DRVV-by Dhruv Kapur

“2 Faced” garments like the coat back jumpsuit for men added to the fashion quotient for a very Zen like look that created a striking fashion statement for Dhruv Kapur’s collection.

DRVV-by Dhruv Kapur

PRANAV MISHRA AND SHYMA SHETTY BROUGHT NEO LUXE PRÉT ON THE CATWALK AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

It was pure luxury with comfort when Pranav Mishra and Shyma Shetty presented their collection for Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 under the “Huemn” label.

Influenced heavily by sportswear, the creations had a breezy fresh energetic young upscaled look. Sporty silhouettes were evident along with graphic creative wordplay and luxe shimmering handwork. Colours that created a fun element were, bright yellow and red along with pastel blue, mint, beige, and ended with black. Keeping the theme intact, plush silk, linen, Lurex and Lycra were the apt fabric choices.

Silky sweatshirts were a great complement for sequinned pencil skirts while trendy varsity Tees were given a stylish twist.

                               

 Huemn

I love the sharply cut Jacket glittered with stripes to keep the theme intact. Sporty broad stripes and giant numerical motifs added to the very fun collection which was at the same time quite right for elegant evenings.

For the lover of the great outdoors, Pranav Mishra and Shyma Shetty dreamt up an offering for the latest season that had all the practical as well as elegant stylish touches.  

                                

 Huemn

SNEHA ARORA’S COLLECTION OF IMPERFECTIONS AND STYLE CREATED DRAMA ON THE RAMP AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

 Sneha created a collection of imperfections at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014. Defects in fashion were highlighted while perfection was given a back seat.

Calling her presentation “Leak”, Sneha went from hues like dirty ivory, patchy beige and leaking indigo along with dusty brown to stay true to the title. I love the neckpiece and the colors.

Sneha Arora

Asymmetric prints were once again blotchy, while leaking plackets and collars were in miss dent dobbies and cotton voiles. Summer dresses too revealed leaking details in cotton satins and hand-woven silks. Bottom wear comprised displaced cropped trousers and culottes, which were teamed with deconstructed blazers with dripping lining that gave an unconventional relaxed silhouette to the garments.

Pleating gave the dresses, trousers and jackets a slightly feminine touch; while the clever layering of different garments offered a mix and match option to the wearer.

Sneha Arora

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES INSPIRED SOUGAT PAUL’S VERY UNIQUE COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

The detailing was rather unconventional as embellishments were the zippers that made striking additions. Digital prints played a major role as geometric and floral motifs in multi colours and fabrics were teamed with solids to highlight the garments. While the silhouette was basic, it was the pleating and draping that added drama to the garments. Beaded tassels appeared for colour blocked pre-stitched saris and were easy on the eye.

                             

 SOUP -Saugat Paul

The final three beaded beauties – black chiffon maxi, red jacket with georgette skirt and the dusty green gown with 3D embellishments were ideal Red Carpet entries. For a nostalgic fashion journey Sougat Paul’s “Vintage Sewing Box” collection was the perfect tailored offering from dawn to dusk.

                            

  SOUP -Saugat Paul