Tarun Tahiliani’s vibrant, iconic collection inspired by The Singh Twins’ paintings at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 was presented by Reliance Trends

Mumbai, 22 March, 2015: It was a casual walk in a museum that inspired India’s ace couturier to create a vibrant colourful collection. Reliance Trends presented The Czar of Couture, Tarun Tahiliani’s “Past Modern” collection inspired by the work of The Singh Twins at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

The award winning Singh Twins’ revived the technique of miniature paintings, which Tarun translated beautifully onto digitally printed clothes. Using selective elements from different paintings to complement his creations, Tarun brought the Mughal sensibilities with a touch of contemporary, playful zest and verse onto the collection.

Tarun Tahiliani

Giant tassels were suspended from the ceiling of the Palladium Ballroom; while brass lamps and wooden angels positioned on head ramp created an old world charm. Against the back drop of an AV featuring frames of miniature paintings and the pulsating live beat of drums by Samander Khan and his Quawwals, the wildly colourful show started.

The saris were a riot of colour with startling LED like borders that gave the traditional drape a New Age avatar. The dhoti sari and many more versions of the 6-yard wonder kept the audience enthralled.

Focusing on borders with Persian motifs that framed the garments occasionally in multiple layers, Tarun used them solo or in unison for leggings and dresses. Soon there were flowing soft silk kaftans, where the paintings were visualised in all their beauty.

Fitted gilets, dhoti and lungi skirts, jewelled Tees for evening glamour, hand painted gold kalis that were reminiscent of a Klimt painting, kedeo tops and kalidaar kurtas completed the wide fashion menu. Touches of Russian folk art were seen along with geometric patterns that emerged from sleeves, lapels and linings.

Tarun Tahiliani

When it came to colour selection, Tarun was very generous as white led the list with black, followed by muted tones and some bold bright hues like rust, orange and red to violet dark blue. Embellishments in resham were followed by the designer’s favourite chikankari, which added to the drama of the ensembles.

Red layered midi with swatches of fabrics around it, yellow front gathered maxi, wide pleated pants, lots of loose poncho tops, a great emphasis on ornate cummerbunds, Obe belts and shorts with shirt tail tops were some of the creations. The empire line kedeo with sarong, layered tulle asymmetric gown, shaded blue, yellow, low crotch salwars, draped sari and the yellow, lace, peplum blouse over draped dhoti sari added to the glam quotient of the show.

Men’s wear included lots of wildly printed shirts, waistcoats with or without quilting; sherwani with cowl drape, a set of shaded blue/ green sherwani and waistcoat and long coats, with placement prints gave the line a very vibrantly hued appearance. 

Tarun Tahiliani

Closing the show was the very lovely Bollywood beauty, Chitrangada Singh who sashayed down the ramp in a long sleeve multicoloured blouse with a voluminous colourful layered net and printed skirt and an impressive cummerbund.

For a fashion line that will allow the wearer to stop conversation at any seasonal soirée, Tarun Tahiliani’s “Past Modern” collection presented by Reliance Trends will be the perfect choice as it offered numerous mix and match options for all seasons.

Farah Sanjana and Karleo by Karan Berry and Leon Vaz brought fashionable trends on the ramp at Jabong stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015

FARAH SANJANA MADE A STRONG FEMININE GLAM STATEMENT AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

22 March 2015, Mumbai: Ace designer Farah Sanjana showcased her demure but daring collection called ‘The Military Diva’ at the Jabong Stage during Lakmé Fashion Summer/Resort 2015.

Is the ultra-mod woman ready to be the quintessential woman she has always dreamt to be? This was the question that Farah Sanjana raised with her breath-taking creations, which were infused with dainty sophistication meant for the fierce and independent warrior.

FARAH SANJANA

 The print story was in the ideal camouflage version teamed with metallic hardware, as the models marched down the ramp. Majestic skirts with strong cuts were teamed with jackets; body hugging skirts spoke of the feminism; while trousers redefined the Spanish silhouettes. The array of shift dresses, cropped tops teamed with gathered skirts, bikinis enveloped under printed capes were the highlights of the show.

FARAH SANJANA

Embellished with the innovative motifs of swords and scimitars, the collection was a fashionable fierce line that brought stylish aggression on the catwalk. The feisty models strutted down the ramp looking royal in form and combative in approach. The eye catching garment that enthralled the audience was a classic ivory coloured sari graced with the monumental sword print.

FARAH SANJANA

The plethora of hues included shades of porcelain, ivory, pale pink, amber and classic black. Soft mint and olive green came up as a sneak peek and added an ultra feminine touch.

Farah Sanjana’s portrayal of “The Military Diva” will definitely appeal to women who want to show the world who the real trend setters are.

KARAN BERRY AND LEON VAZ FOR KARLEO CREATED A CELESTIAL SERENE WOMEN’S WEAR LINE AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER RESORT 2015

Karan Berry and Leon Vaz showcased their label Karleo’s celestial collection that revolved around ‘Astrology’ at the Jabong Stage during the Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Bringing in depth of the Universe, Karleo showcased a versatile range of garments in midnight hues depicting the 12 birthstones. Inspired by black holes and starbursts, this infinitely intriguing collection comprised structural forms of flowing silhouettes in deep undertones. The facets, iridescence, undertones and layers are realized through the deep hues and rich detailing in jewel tones.

KARAN BERRY AND LEON VAZ FOR KARLEO

Twinkling under the ramp lights were asymmetrical skirts, dresses, sweatshirts, flowing kaftans in georgettes, tulles and crêpes. The designers showcased dreams and passion to reach the stars through sequinned shift dresses, flowing gowns, swirling gathered skirts, and the classic saris. The colours were in dusky shades of greys, muted mauve, amber, classic charcoal, mint and lush green embellished with abstract sequins.

KARAN BERRY AND LEON VAZ FOR KARLEO

Adding density to this mesmerising collection was the eye-catching beaded eyewear that depicted little planets of the Universe. The minimalistic use of antiquing and distressing gave the sequins that added drama on the ramp. Shimmering headgears depicting the stars lost into the infinity of the Universe.

KARAN BERRY AND LEON VAZ FOR KARLEO

The Bollywood Bengali film actress, Riya Sen strolled down the catwalk in a gathered ivory coloured short dress decorated with large round sequins. Beyond a shadow of doubt, she perfectly portrayed the ice princess.

Karan Berry and Leon Vaz displayed their Karleo collection “Astrology” inspired by the celestial bodies that are part of the mystical world of astrology. Here was an elegant and serene line that will appeal to women, who long for ensembles that have a soothing effect on their souls.

Shilpa Reddy and Ridhi Mehra presented amazing style directions  at Jabong stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015

RIDHI MEHRA REFLECTED A STUNNING COLLECTION AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKME FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015.

22 March 2015, Mumbai: Youthful designer, Ridhi Mehra showcased a timeless spectrum of clothing titled ‘A Mirror Affaire’ at Jabong Stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

Taken by the intriguing interior decoration of the Sheesh Mahal - the palace of unbelievable beauty, Ridhi incorporated tastefully the essence of the palace onto her garments. Based on oriental charms juxtaposed with the subtleness of the romantic West; a fusion was artistically created to merge the romantic era and the craftsmanship of the Mughals.

RIDHI MEHRA

Dainty soft-powdered hues like blush, nude, peach were balanced with bolder tones of mint green, orange and dreamy white dominated the colour palette.

While staying true to her signature look, the designer played around and achieved an elegant, refreshing mix of aari and mirror work brought to life with hints of zardosi. The compilation, this season consisted of grand anarkalis, jumpsuits, capes, jackets with peplums, saris, blouses and cholis.

The designer also played with a unique concept of embellishing see-through fabric with flower motifs, which appeared to float on one’s body in an almost dream-like manner.

Embellishments comprised rich thread work, which graced each form, as Grecian drapes helped to soften the feel of the collection.

RIDHI MEHRA

Riches from the orient such as Chanderi silk, georgette, chiffon, satin and net were used to create the airy feminine silhouettes radiating a delicate tease.

RIDHI MEHRA

The showstopper was lovely Bollywood star of the film; “Fugly” Kiara Advani who graced the runway in a gorgeous green choli, with the skirt enriched with several layers of embroidered fabric.

Footwear by Dune London and jewellery by Prerto added to the beauty of the collection.

RIDHI MEHRA

 ‘The Mirror Affaire’ by Ridhi Mehra was a bold step towards the romantic mirage of a woman, who moves towards glory.

SHILPA REDDY’S ENSEMBLES WERE VISIONS OF BEAUTY AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

Shilpa Reddy showcased an ethereal collection titled ‘Moon Lit Sand’ inspired by the moon at Jabong Stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

SHILPA REDDY

Staying true to the essence of the range, the colour palette comprised gold, silver, white, sand, royal blue, copper, grey and nudes for a timeless edge.

The Indo-western range showcased easy-to-wear, timeless silhouettes like skirts, jackets, tops, blouses, capes, pants and lehenga cholis  that floated down the ramp in luxurious fabrics like malka and khadi silk.

SHILPA REDDY

Floral motifs, thread work, embroidery and subtle texturing added to the fresh, fun and flirty vibe of the outfits. 

The designer played with each form, adding a whimsical western touch to traditional Indian outfits.

SHILPA REDDY

Embellishments like beads, sequins and crystals were used to add a brilliant, luminous effect to each piece – a reflection of the moon and were balanced with a solid strip of colour at the bottom.

Some of the pieces which stood out were a unique pre-stitched sari with pants in tangerine with a bead encrusted blouse; while a shimmering gold blouse stole the spotlight as a fashionably functional separate that could be paired with pants, shorts or a skirt.

SHILPA REDDY

Lastly, the show stopper, actress Nimrat Kaur known for her role in the movie “Lunchbox” took the catwalk in a stunning forest green embroidered lehenga teamed with a half sleeved jacket worn over a sensual low cut blouse.

 Beautiful, elegant and eternal, Shilpa Reddy’s collection ‘Moon Lit Sand’ is sure to have any fashionista feeling like a Goddess.

A spectacular Grand Finale by Anamika Khanna brings the 25th season of Lakmé Fashion Week to a close

Sculpted matte looks, a sensational collection and the dazzling Kareena Kapoor take center-stage 

Mumbai 22nd March 2015: In a perfect conclusion to the celebration of its 15-year milestone, Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 witnessed a magnificent Grand Finale by design priestess Anamika Khanna. Anamika’s collection was inspired by ‘Sculpt’- the Lakmé beauty statement for the season.

Anamika Khanna

A truly avant-garde couturier, Anamika’s interpretation of Sculpt was a display of craftsmanship and construction. With structured drapes, it was a fearless line, not confined to rules but an innovative blend of ‘sculpting’ and ‘de-sculpting’. Indian crafts were used in structural forms. The colour story played with silver, gold, ivory, gunmetal, black, soft pink, nude and a strong blue.

The experimental silhouettes played with structural drapes. Anamika researched extensively with embroidery like zardosi, thread and metallic work to reinvent it to match the inspirations for her strong but quiet creations.

Whether it was the silhouettes, colours, embroidery or fabrics, the “Sculpt” collection by Anamika Khanna was an intense fashion experience that left a lasting, mesmerizing impression on the audience with the ultra-glamorous beauty of the ensembles.

Each look on the runway was completed with Lakmé’s new range of Absolute Sculpt Matte lipsticks and accentuated through structured hairdos. Anamika’s models strutted down the runway with well-defined and contoured matte lips in a stunning palette of rich plums, deep reds and feminine pinks. Backstage, the sculpted looks were crafted by Lakmé makeup expert, Natasha Nischol, in collaboration with Lakmé Absolute Salon hair experts.

Karishma Kapoor for Anamika Khanna

Adding to the grandeur of this 15-year celebratory finale was an appearance by Lakmé face Kareena Kapoor Khan who played muse to both Anamika and Natasha.

Talking about her finale collection Anamika said, “It has been an absolute honor to be a part of this grand 15 year celebration. Lakmé’s Sculpt statement was a very inspiring theme to work with for my Grand Finale collection. It is an eclectic mix of construction and deconstruction and I have played with a lot with drapes, Indian dhoti’s and long flowy jackets – all silhouettes that truly captures my vision of Sculpt.”

Anamika Khanna

 Purnima Lamba, Head of Innovation at Lakme said, “Sculpt is all about a modern and structured look, with a focus on matte lips, which we see as the big trend this season. Anamika’s creations and Natasha’s make up have magnificently brought alive our vision of Sculpt.”

Street Style Diaries Mumbai - Karan Berry

Modern Minimalism

When me met at an event my fashion conscious eye couldn't help but notice the preppy and minimalist style of Karan Berry. 

Karan juggles many hats in the creative fields including footwear design, visual spaces and with his partner Leon, has just debuted with their line KARLEO in the Lakme' Fashion Week's summer edition, in Mumbai.

I am drawn to Modern Minimalism as an expression when its used with a clear conceptual edge. I see this in the collections from Calvin Klein blended with the influences from sportswear. This new concept of anti-branding, anti-logo and non-decorative styling finds much favor with me. Here your style becomes more about self-expression and individuality yet remaining anonymous. I am a fan of Muji, a Japanese brand that seems to base itself on this philosophy and has found much success globally.

Karan seems to identify with and incorporate these in his personal style very well. He wears a crew neck long sleeve lightweight knit in purple with a smart fitted, tailored pair of trousers in grey prince of Wales checks, very subtle. The accessories he uses to complete his look, the leather chunky fringe loafers, the bespoke leather backpack, the watch interest me and pleases me the most!

There is a certain attraction in the play of textures, the updated color blocking in the designs, both from the label A.K.A Bespoke, that he is a part of. The contrasts, the green+brown in the shoes and the purple+brown for the backpack are subtle and striking at the same time. 

All the best for KARLEO!

Karan Berry

Karan Berry

Karan Berry

Lakme' Fashion Week Summer Resort 14 Day 2 Part 3

KARAN BERRY AND LEON VAZ PRESENED A VERSATILE GLAMOROUS LINE AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

Designer duo Karan Berry and Leon Vaz showcased a dazzling new collection under their label ‘KARLEO’ at Jabong Stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.

The showstopper was none other than supermodel Carol Gracias who stunned all in a crystal encrusted white gown with opulent ruffles at the bottom.

Pretty, dramatic and daring ‘KARLEO’ by Karan Berry and Leon Vaz had everything for any diva who likes to stand out.    

  

KARLEO

Versatile and perfect for a glamorous night-out to a Red Carpet event, the range comprised jumpsuits, trousers, dresses, gowns, kaftans, pantsuits, skirts and pants in rich colours inspired by various Indian spices such as mustard, paprika, rye and bay leaves.

KARLEO

The pieces were fabulously crafted in georgette and crepé-de-chine and were elegantly embellished and accentuated by textures, crystals, gemstones, acrylic and neoprene elements. The designers also included delicate floral inspired bejewelled headbands as part of their collection.

KARLEO 

URVASHI JONEJA’S FEISTY COLLECTION WAS IMPRESSIVE AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

Mumbai, 13^th March 2014: Urvashi Joneja’s collection of high end casual and evening wear was a decadent display of all things feminine and feisty, at Jabong Stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.

URVASHI JONEJA

The designer stuck to a monochrome palette broken by pops of colours such as chalk purple and muted orange.

Delicate and lightly structured forms took to the ramp as the range showcased versatile silhouettes from asymmetric to flowing in soft, comfortable fabrics such as organza and crepé.

The collection comprised separates as well as paired pieces like dresses, tunics, gowns, trousers, skirts, cover-ups, shrugs and pants.

URVASHI JONEJA

Embellishments were kept simple yet complex with rope and chord work, which flattered any woman’s form.

Two pieces which stood out in particular were a white rope top that showed off the designer’s keen craftsmanship and a unique pair of shorts which extended into sheer pants. 

Inspired by the intricacies of nature from flowers to tree barks, each piece was graced with a stylized element infused with geometric patterns that made for a unique balance.

URVASHI JONEJA

DHL PRESENTED MAWI’S INDIAN ODYSSEY AND THE STUNNING SPACE AGE COLLECTION OF GAURAV GUPTA TO CLOSE DAY TWO AT LAKMÉ  FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

Mumbai, 13^th March 2014:

A lit space ship suspended from the ceiling slowly rose to the top at the start of the show, while abstract shapes hung at ramp entrance. To the eerie sounds of a very futuristic symphony, through clouds of smoke, the ultra glam journey into fashionable space started for the audience, as pairs of models in tonal hues but varying designs, decked in outstanding jewellery strutted down the ramp.

Gaurav Gupta and Mavi Keivom

Considered a global luxe brand, Manipur-born Mawi showcased a line of glittering pieces that offered a retrospective over the years of the designer’s work. Adding on hints of her heritage, the ultra-glam jewellery worn by international fashion beauties like Kate Moss had a unique distinct design quality, rarely seen on the ramp.

For conversation stopping statement jewellery, Mawi Keivom’s “Indian Odyssey” collection did all the talking at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.
Multiple drapes were merged so expertly that they boggled the mind, while the structured and moulded fabrics clung dangerously around the models to emerge into unbelievable silhouettes.

Gaurav Gupta and Mavi Keivom

The glitter of metallic jersey, gold and black shimmer of sequins was highlighted by colours like gold, copper, black, anthracite, flame orange and teal. Inspired by the regal creations of ancient Egypt, the silhouettes were slender and lean and revealed a distinct contrast between diamond sharpness and Egyptian futuristic drapes. A master of drapes and silhouettes that completely push the construction envelope; Gaurav displayed his expertise with Carbon Lattice, Isis, Serpent Wave and Diagonal Murmur.

Gaurav Gupta and Mavi Keivom

Antique gold metallic draped one-shoulder gown with an endless trail revealed the futuristic look of the garments; while striking body and jumpsuits, dresses and sari gowns held the attention of the audience. Slim pants were seen under luxurious togas, along with lace gowns and cocktail dresses that were breathtaking in their regal beauty meant for the futuristic Egyptian queens.

Mention must be made of the very exotic make-up, the gorgeous gold platform shoes and Mohawk like hair-do that followed the Egyptian theme.

When women want to look like Egyptian goddesses then Gaurav Gupta’s collection called “Memphire” will allow them to compete with beauties of the world and rule the fashion scene.

Gaurav Gupta and Mavi Keivom

GAURAV GUPTA – FABULOUS AND FUTURISTIC

Showcasing one of the most dazzling collections Gaurav Gupta’s debut appearance at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 was a fabulous futuristic show called “Memphire”. There was glitz, glamour and large doses of grandeur as pairs of models strutted down the catwalk in Gaurav’s creations adorned with Mawi Keivom’s heart stopping jewellery.

MAWI KEIVOM – DESTINED TO DAZZLE

Back home after 12 years, UK based accessory designer, Mawi Keivom presented her fabulous debut collection that was ideal for Gaurav Gupta’s glamorous futuristic creations. Displaying her jewellery under her iconic label MAWI the designer’s “Indian Odyssey” showcase, brought styles of the past and married them to contemporary visuals as iconic pieces were selected from the archives of the designer’s collections.

Gaurav Gupta and Mavi Keivom