ARCHANA RAO, KARISHMA SHAHANI KHAN AND HUEMN BY PRANAV MISHRA AND SHYAMA SHETTY MADE FASHION MAGIC ON THE RAMP

AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

ARCHANA RAO'S NOSTALGIC PARIS INSPIRED COLLECTION LEFT A LASTING IMPACT AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

When the inspiration is a 70 years old apartment in Paris with its treasure trove of memories, the collection has to have a nostalgic appeal. Archana Rao's "The Apartment" for her 'Frou-Frou' label at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 revived the memories of a bygone Parisian era as she creatively merged colours and fabrics with romantic nuances.

Shades of a soft palette started with nudes, blush pinks, pearly whites and moved to strong hues of military green and ochré. Matching the gentle beauty of the colours was the mélange of fabrics that moved from versatile hosiery and frail nets, to pure cotton and sheer organza. Detailing played a soft symphony, as embroidered cut-work and pearl minutiae added to the ethereal touch but the silhouettes were kept relaxed yet regal.

ARCHANA RAO

 The show opened with an ochré net skirt sprinkled with green tassels and white shirt with pink appliqués on shoulder. Next on the catwalk was a crêpe tulle gown with pink tassels, cutwork white shoulder cape over maxi and a white shirt worn with will-power slit kurta.

Net and solid fabrics worked well together, while patchwork quilted coat matched with shirt and trousers and a shaded pearl edged sari with cutwork cropped top added variety. Net capes appeared over sheaths and the rust pearl fringed toga, voluminous khaki net skirt and body-con dress with patched pockets created the mood.

Some interesting men's wear appeared on the ramp where appliquéd shirts and jackets were teamed with relaxed trousers.

Stopping the show was the very petite Aditi Rao Hydari who glided down in an empire line light maroon layered cutwork gown.

For women who long for that nostalgic Parisian touch in their wardrobe "The Apartment" by Archana Rao is what they will opt for.

KARISHMA SHAHANI KHAN PAID HOMAGE TO INDIGO WITH HER "NEEL" COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

Indigo the eternal popular shade of blue loved by all from various walks of life, has been at the centre of fashion for decades. Paying homage to this eternal shade, Karishma Shahani Khan's "Neel" collection at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 moved from comfort with functional detailing and then gradually went into traditional Asian mending and repairing techniques.

Boro, Sashika and Kantha gave the ensembles a richness that was timeless. The motifs were inspired by the blossoms that garland the blue skinned Indian deities with hints of vermillion and kumkum. Using fabulous hand woven silks, cottons, medium weight recycled denim and reused remnants of fabrics starting with Malkha cotton, ikats and hand woven silk; Karishma brought in a symphony of colours like white, red and mustard to balance the indigo shade.

KARISHMA SHAHANI KHAN

Layered to perfection, the garments in varying lengths were perfectly balanced for each entry. Tiered dresses were matched with printed skirts and flared jackets; cross-over tie-up kurtas appeared with Capris while bias cut shirt was worn with shaded sari and asymmetrical sleeveless waistcoat. The cute arrow print appeared occasionally to highlight the ensembles along with other motifs. An eye-catcher was the looped flared reversible skirt and layers of soft jackets in varying silhouettes that added to the very folksy fun-filled nature of the collection.

When traditional weaves and colours come seamlessly together, then the result is the stunning "Neel" collection by Karishma Shahani Khan.

PRANAV MISHRA AND SHYAMA SHETTY SHOWCASED A NEO LUXE COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

From placement prints on black, white and grey last season, Pranav Mishra and Shyma Shetty for their "Huemn" label showcased a neo luxe collection at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015. Combining luxury in comfort and vice versa, the designers brought in stark femininity that had a flirtatious fascination for masculine coordinates. Classic silhouettes were revised with 3D futuristic fabrics and New Age print treatments.

Easy-to-wear summer apparel was layered with handmade techniques and finishes for suiting fabrics that enhanced the collection to a premium level. To match the silhouettes and fabrics the luxurious colour story was woven around fuchsia and gold with sheer white for lush silk, cotton and knits.

In a fast paced show, the collection opened with a white double sleeved shirt, followed by a midi shirt splashed with an abstract design. Double breast jackets were in red with one button closure or in black pinstripes. Trousers were cut short above the ankle, while sheer covers made the shorts and shirts look dressy.

PRANAV MISHRA AND SHYAMA SHETTY

Abstract prints in black and white looked great for sheer covers over sheaths, a khaki flared white blotch print skirt, jumpsuit with net trail, red maxi with bold shimmer and the final white  maxi embellished with feather like shredding with a sheer hem was an innovative end to the very practical but trendy collection.

For the Summer/Resort season of 2015 Pranav Mishra and Shyma Shetty's "Huemn" label offered a bouquet of exotic ensembles to the adventurous trendsetters.​

STYLE AND EDGY FASHION TOOK CENTRE STAGE WITH TIMELESS CREATIONS BY KRISHNA MEHTA AND VAISHALI SHADANGULE AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

KRISHNA MEHTA'S BOHO CHIC 1970'S INSPIRED COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015 HAD NEW AGE INFLUENCES.

Mumbai 18 March, 2015: Get set for some happy, festive, fun wear in vibrant colours, breezy silhouettes and relaxed fabrics. Krishna Mehta recreated the boho chic 1970's look for the New Age fashion followers at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015.

It was a free spirited, vibrant, line that had all the designer touches, which Krishna is well known for. Rugged linen and twill cotton made fashionable music with smooth satin and rich traditional brocades. Florals were prominent in daring hues; while the chromatic alchemy of prints was highlighted by embroidered graphic patterns.

Brocades from Varanasi, jamdanis from Bengal, tussars from Bhagalpur and silk muls from Maheshwar; were the star of the show along with the block prints that were hand carved by artisans in Farukhabad.

KRISHNA MEHTA

The colours were a magnificent line up of fuchsia, orange and red, which moved gradually to relaxing cool tones of indigo, black and purple with bursts of embroidery and hints of ivory. Block prints lots of tie/dye motifs and a riot of prints were part of the multilayered creations.

The bohemian influence was prevalent in the oriental touches and opulent silhouettes. From short sexy asymmetrical creations to floor kissing apparel, high waist fluid trousers and cinched at the waist pleated skirts, the collection offered varied options.

Creating visions of beauty was the Lucknowi multicoloured embroidery on the jackets, tunics, waistcoats and kedios.

Startling visions on the catwalk were the high waist gathered skirt with embroidered waistband, red printed asymmetric tunic, blue cowl skirt and dress and the ecru tulip pants.

KRISHNA MEHTA

The dhoti pants with printed tunic and shaded palazzos along with khadi pyjama gave an Indo-west look to the collection. The three saris were vibrant in print and colour with shibori and teamed with embroidered kedios or vests.

For women who long for extreme luxury in fabrics, prints and colours along with a dollop of contemporary spirit, Krishna Mehta's 1970's inspired fun collection had the right look.

VAISHALI SHADANGULE'S "BEHRUPIA" COLLECTION WAS A FASHIONABLE ODE TO KHAND AND KHADI AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

Inspired by the traditional performing art form of India in Maharashtra, Vaishali Shadangule's collection called "Behrupia" (or Songadi) inspired her to use this theme. Like the thread which changes its form on the looms and keeps attracting the buyers like the Behrupia does in public with disguises and hidden identity; the creations reflected this theme.

Like the human Behrupia Vaishali zeroed in on the thread, which turns into Khand, the fabulous textile of Maharashtra, which has an amazing hand weave. Mixing Khand with khadi Vaishali reinvented the textiles and presented them in modern shapes with intricate geometric construction for dual tone creations.

VAISHALI SHADANGULE

The colour palette was muted with white, black, maroon, grey, blue and gold for short and long dresses with hints of drapes.

The show opened with a belted grey dress with maroon collar and cowl back followed by a lean column long dress. Draped angular one- shoulder creation, pleated fuchsia mini skirt or a sheath with the same detailing, a modern version of the cheongsam were blended skilfully for traditional fabrics with contemporary silhouettes. A royal blue toga with intricate drape, the white long sheer trench coat and layered organza Khand choli were innovative constructions from Vaishali.

VAISHALI SHADANGULE

The stylish creation with maroon bodice and white layered shoulder drape was a study in intricate construction. The deep blue lean maxi with side panels, the stunning gown with cut-out back and the halter asymmetric maxi creation in grey/black/white checked/striped were stunners.

The one-shoulder draped blue gown, another in deep green, the stylish white khadi/Khand long sleeved summer coat and the dramatic cowl neck shifts were intricately crafted entries on the ramp.

The final white khadi sari with a grey/white layered choli sporting a front tie-up was a super end.

For lovers of Indian textiles with a creative twist, Vaishali Shadangule's "Behrupia" collections will always add a surprise element to the wardrobe

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE HISTORY OF INDIAN FASHION THE WORLD WATCHED MASABA’S UNIQUE VIBRANTLY COLOURFUL ‘SUGAR PLUM’ SHOW ON INSTAGRAM AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2015

18 March, 2015, Mumbai: A fashion revolution went into cyber world for the first time in India by Lakmé Fashion Week. One of the most popular trendy young designers in the country presented her colourful line on popular social media platform, Instagram.

Colourful, young and kitschy are the adjectives that are used to describe the collections by talented designer Masaba Gupta whenever she has displayed at fashion weeks.

Her latest offering “Sugar Plum” presented on Instagram at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2015 had all the juicy elements and was a vibrant line of easy, comfy creations that will appeal to Indian as well as global followers of fashion.

Masaba Gupta

It was a show with a great difference and totally unconventional. Followers watched Masaba’s colourful summer/resort 2015 line live on Instagram, which has become a favourite platform for fashionistas around the globe.

So in the comfort of their personal spaces – living room, lounge, bedroom etc. - the world watched the show. It was a unique “off-site” presentation for the viewers on their smart phones and computers who also saw changes in the backdrop and lighting, which added to the amazing quality of the collection.

Masaba Gupta

While digital prints have always been Masaba’s forté she went in for bold ones with 3D effects and a lot of rainbow colour blocking for basic shapes like dolman sleeve tunics with fuchsia, emerald and sun yellow patches.

Mini flared skirts in lemony shades were worn with tiny cropped tops, printed piped shirt looked really tasty as candy colours came alive for the fruity sweet line. Wrapped like candies in cellophane was the head gear, while the Popsicle hues were seen in colour blocked off-shoulder loose tents and sleeveless shirt collar column dress. A giant candy print on multi coloured will-power tubes were tempting entries.

Masaba Gupta

When the trend followers want to make some noise with their sartorial choices, Masaba Gupta’s latest line “Sugar Plum” presented on Instagram will be a mouth watering addition that will get loud accolades at any event.

Lakme Fashion Week Winter Festive 2014 Day 1

We know this comes a bit late but we wanted to be thorough as we bring out our favourite collections from this year's winter festive LFW 14 presentations.

ANUJ BHUTANI – REINVENTING MEN’S WEAR

For his label “Reboot” Anuj Bhutani’s collection was a perfect offering of winter dressing for men. Tailored deconstruction was the highlight of the garments with hints of unisex styling for the trendy New Age man.

Anuj Bhutani

Inspired by the 1960’s English sub-culture called “Teddy Boys” the collection; aimed at reconstructing men’s wear with subtle influences and discreet detailing. Men’s wear never looked more interesting with shades of royal blue, smoky grey, urban, olive and sand with interesting geometrical thread work in forms of twisted yarn as well as screen prints, surface texturing and graphic block prints.

Anuj Bhutani

Zippers were the cynosure of attraction but appeared mid centre at the back of garments. Blousons, one-button shawl collar jacket, parka with trousers, unstructured, soft, long coats and kurtas with jackets added to the style and construction of the collection. The final loosely belted trench coat with printed back flap worn with comfy trousers completed the look.

Anuj Bhutani

Stylish, relaxed and reinvented men’s wear from Anuj Bhutani showed a practical wearable line that men will love to sport from dawn to dusk.

DHRUV KAPOOR – THE RAW BOLD LOOK

With a master’s degree in Fashion Design for women’s wear from the Marangoni Institute, Italy, Dhruv Kapoor’s collection was for the raw and bold nature in a fashionable woman. Using technology to develop fabrics, prints and embroidery, Dhruv’s creations had an intelligent aggressiveness that men and women will appreciate in their garments. 

Dhruv Kapoor

Showing a collection of men’s and women’s wear featuring relaxed pea coats, slacks, “A” line skirts and boxy shirts the eight garments were a blend of smudgy prints, sheer and wool with a hint of fur as detailing for a top with loose pants. Bringing in some formal wear there was a flared printed skirt with shimmer and a black mesh cover over white shirt dress again, sparkling with sequins.

Dhruv Kapoor

Zippers were the focal point of the slouchy creations with digital and 3D prints adding to the trendy look for the shades of black, white, grey and pale pink.

Dhruv Kapoor

These were clothes that spoke a language of the raw bold look and Dhruv Kapoor’s collection was a winner that will surely be “Game Set Match” for the buyers.

KRISTY DE CUNHA – HOMAGE TO AN ARTIST

Called “La Casa Azul” (The Blue House) Kristy De Cunha’s collection paid homage to artist Frieda Kahlo and her unborn child. Depicting the raw emotions of the artist, through her garments, Kristy had bold prints with vibrant colours that will enable women to present a striking fashion statement.

Kristy De Cunha

Dramatic garment construction and a raw earthy appeal made the creations eye catching. The blue will-power gown with a peplum waist was splashed with images of the artist and one of the highlights of the show. Neons, lots of shades of blue and intense colourful drama caused a sensation on the ramp with Kristy’s creative garments.

Kristy De Cunha

A blue mini with giant rose appliqué was actually a quilted cape dress. Bell sleeves appeared for wrapped tops and a giant tent with slits for hands was a canvas for Kristy as she paid tribute to Kahlo’s work. A crinoline skirt was worn with lime neon top, empire waist boxy gown looked feminine with bell sleeves, satin printed jacket with white printed skirt and the bell sleeved multi print gown, were a riot of colour and edgy fashion.
For fashion with an artistic palette on garments, “La Casa Azul” by Kristy De Cunha will thrill art lovers as well as fashionistas.

Kristy De Cunha

KARISHMA SAHANI KHAN DISCOVERED THE FASHIONABLE WORLD OF AN EXPLORER AT LAKME FASHION WEEK WINTER/FESTIVE 2014.

Karishma Sahani Khan’s collection ‘Khoj’ at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 had a literal meaning that was inspired by the archaeological inventions and discoveries made all over the world. The collection is based on the stark contrast of the world that passed and the progressiveness of the technology in the current period.
As if bringing out a point, Karishma marked the change of a forthcoming future and kept her designs green by making the clothing in natural fabrics such as organic cotton, Bamboo and soybean fibres, which are sustainable and bio-degradable.

Ka Sha

Tie-dyed and hand-painted motifs and patterns in natural and toxic free dyes, combined with hand-embroidery techniques were created using discarded materials – fabrics, vegetable sacks, plastic and the traditional ‘mukaish’ strips that brought out the naturalism of the entire collection.

Ka Sha

She effortlessly blended unstitched expressionism with tailored practicality with touches of science, mysticism and traditions.
Overcoats, see-through shirts and the ethnic saris were in shades of denim blue, grey, orange and mint green with pom-pom detailing and layering which gave a fusion look.

Ka Sha

Karishma Sahani Khan’s brand Ka-Sha with her very eco-friendly and glamorous collection ‘Khoj’ brought to light the changing ways of a more nature conscious generation. 

KAABIA AND SASHA GREWAL OF OUTHOUSE DAZZLED THE AUDIENCE WITH THEIR OPULENT JEWELLERY COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK WINTER/FESTIVE 2014

Known for their unconventional jewellery designs, Kaabia and Sasha Grewal for their label “Outhouse” presented their stunning collection called “The Column” at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014. Lustrous gold was entwined into magical pieces that were influenced by the regal look of Greece and Rome. Playing imaginatively with gold, the designer duo proved that the precious metal was versatile enough to be draped like liquid silk or moulded firmly.

Outhouse

The pair was inspired by Proto-geometric art and linear meanders to present a more basic but bold collection. Adding to the beauty of the jewellery were semi-precious stones like amber, turquoise, pearls, garnets and lapis lazuli to create glitz and glamour.

Outhouse

The pair gave the Maang Tikka a New Age feel but with  a Mohawk- like design that rose in curves on the heads of the models, while the earrings flared up to reach the hair turning into large lacy covers. Chokers cascaded down the necks of the models with a line of interlinked pendants or were clasped around the necks with multiple layers.  Belt-cum-shoulder or body harnesses, ornate cropped gloves, windmill inspired ear cuffs, leather/tassel shoulder dusters, cross body leather/gold belt, and spikes erupted from neckpieces. Towering looped Maang Tikka, Haath Phool, facial décor garter-cum- harness and finger cuffs turned ordinary jewellery categories into conversation stoppers.

Outhouse

Opulence was the apt word to describe the jewellery as spiked bangles, looped and tasselled necklaces, shoulder ornaments and neckpieces had intricate attachments while armlets as well as enticing danglers for the ears stole the limelight.
The striking ensembles that matched the avant garde look were courtesy JV by Jatin Varma who added his geometric touches to balance the grand ornaments.

For women who dream of looking like mythical goddesses showered in jewels, “The Column” by Kaabia and Sasha Grewal will make it a reality.

RAW EDGY FASHION WAS DISPLAYED BY ASA KAZINGMEI AT JABONG STAGE DURING LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK WINTER/FESTIVE 2014

Asa Kazingmei, a designer known for his raw and edgy take on fashion revealed a new collection inspired by the shield used by Naga warriors when at war. Titled ‘Changvei’ at Jabong Stage during Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014, the creations had an innovative style and look.

 ASA KAZINGMEI

The silhouettes were almost armour-like, form fitting at the top so as to ‘protect’ one’s body. Exaggerated necklines and shoulders structured to mirror ‘self-expression through restriction’, was a concept derived from the boundaries and strife witnessed by the Naga warriors. 

 ASA KAZINGMEI

ASA KAZINGMEI

The show stopper piece was a breathtaking white gown with scale-like detailing along the neck and torso with a see-through hemline and sensual cut-out at the back.

Eloquent in expression and deep in thought, Asa Kazingmei’s collection ‘Changvei’ was a beautiful reminder that there may not be any beauty in pain, but rather sometimes one finds pain that’s found its way within beauty.  

Street Style Diaries - Karishma Shahani

Boho state of mind

Karishma Shahani appeared to be just as rooted in her choice of attire as her last presentation at LIFW(see it here). This new designer on the block has every bit of Indian essence ingrained in her aesthetics and every bit young that we are as a nation. Guess we too are inspired by the PM's speech on our 68th Independence Day.

As we look back, our last few posts have been bohemian inspired looks and wonder if it reflects the state of mind. 

Karishma Shahani

Karishma pairs a white full sleeved scoop neck Jacket in ombre dyed shade of pink with a black maxi dress, a Tibetan beaded choker and versatile bright loafers.  

Karishma Shahani

All set for a long day with an energy drink (almost seems like an accessory), the gold coin purse and the citrus colour covered phone add to the enigma of this boho girl.

Karishma Shahani

A Long gilet/jacket may seem like a non-essential, but we bet you’ll be surprised by its versatility. Team it up with jeans, shorts or jeggings and it can instantly prep up a look, take it up a few notches.

On another exciting front, Lakme India Fashion Week - Winter Festive 2014 is about to commence and we shall do our best to bring you the best dressed. Follow us on Instagram to stay updated!

Spotlight Feature: Ka Sha by Karishma Shahani

Inspire Within

I often wondered if in a quest to modernize ourselves we are letting go of our legacy, our heritage? 

Are we subconsciously abandoning the very thread that binds us all together; our culture!

Wouldn't it be nice if we carried forward the best assets of our centuries of intellect and wisdom that thoughtfully co-exists with our modern views and evolution?

As I try to wrestle my mind out of an inner conflict between embracing the new and not parting with the Indophile in me and strike a balance; I came across the "Kaam Kaaj" collection Ka Sha (Pronounced as K Sh)by Karishma Shahni.

Kaam Kaaj is every bit modern yet Indian. It embodies and personifies the Indianness yet updates it with modern silhouettes.

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha in words by Karishma Shahani

Our Spring Summer 2014 story - ‘Kaam-Kaaj’ juxtaposes work wear of our ‘working classes’, an integral part of our economic eco-system with ritualistic ceremonial wear, an integral part of our social system. Drawing parallels between these two distinct cultural participations – work & celebration, Kaam Kaaj follows the local vendors, fruit sellers, migrant labor workers, house help, and so on. Often romanticized in socialist conversations, is their movement  of clothing through  work and day, their utility based gamchas, their shirt over lehengas, their inners as outers, their work-appropriate  pockets, their cultural influences, their climatic inferences and their regional requirements. ‘Kaam-Kaaj’ is a study of this indigenous part of our society who stand as beacons of cultural india, almost blending tradition with practicality. The focus lies on retaining feminity in a world associated with masculinity. Taking from these ceremonies and their adornment their cultural aesthetic, their symbolism, their textures, their ornamental abundance to this, minimalistic otherside of local work wear. It is a reflection of contrast within ones own life – it fastens together our need for functionality and flamboyance.

Traditional Ajrakh Block printing techniques don the surfaces of a variety of Pure Cottons from Gujarat - Handwoven  Khadis to Powerloom chequered  cottons. The fabrics are dyed and printed using Natural dyes. Hand embroidery and hand carved wooden blocks inspired by checks and florals both - reminiscent of work and play, celebrate the two facets of the lives of everyday people.

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha 

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha 

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha 

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha 

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha 

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha 

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha 

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha

Kaam Kaaj by Ka Sha

Lakme' Fashion Week Summer Resort 2014 Day 3 Part 1

MRINALINI CHANDRA’S LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014 ACCESSORY COLLECTION WAS A CREATIVE BLEND OF METAL AND SEMI PRECIOUS STONES

Inspired by the humble chair that is present in every home, Mrinalini Chandra’s Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 collection called “Please Have a Seat” was a visually arresting line of jewellery. The elements of the collection were from the grand Singhansans of the past, the Peacock Throne, the comfortable rocking chair and the Palkis that carried noblemen in India.

Mrinalini Chandra

Cleverly crafting the accessories from customised gold alloy, recycled glass stones and semi-precious gems, like jade, onyx, coated pearls, etc. Mrinalini visualized an interesting movement to adorn the female form.

Mrinalini Chandra

Giant motifs emerged attached with rows of pearls for an imposing necklace, while corals edged the neckpieces. The chair design appeared in varying sizes to firmly re-enforce the theme. Geometric chair designs were turned into flat neck items and the zodiac wheel appeared as a large brooch. Chairs were interlinked for an arm ornament, a gold bolero, a graphic 3D rendition for necklaces, cummerbunds as well as ornaments for the hair. Mrinalini Chandra’s bridal jewellery too followed the chair design for not only the necklace, shoulder dusters and nose ring, but even the huge kaliras for each wrist.

SIDHARTH SINHA PRESENTED THE BEAUTY OF NORTHEAST INDIA THROUGH HIS STUNNING COLLECTION AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

When the ramp lights came on, designer Sidharth Sinha revealed his beautiful collection under his label N & S Gaia featuring the amazing textiles of Meghalaya and crafts of Northeast India at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014. Giving natural fibres his designer touches, Sidharth a graduate of NIFT Delhi along with his partner Nathaniel W Rynjah gave the N & S Gaia collection an awe inspiring appeal.

Meghalaya Handlooms presented the GAIA label in fabulous silhouettes that blended the beauty and traditions of hand-woven fabrics like Dakwanda cotton with unconventional western weaves of beautiful flowers.

N & S GAIA

As creations in shades of ecru, beige, green, brown, grey, indigo, red, maroon and yellow floated down the catwalk; the sharply tailored contemporary cuts with hints of boxy layers and a marked colonial vintage feel came to the forefront.

The show opened with a white draped gown having detailing like an attached coin purse. Minis with cowl sleeves, zippered gown with blossoms on the hem, woven minis with pleating and feminine touches were eye-catching. Asymmetric hems achieved with the help of shawls as well as draping, knee length capris and mix of fabrics, prints and weaves were the highlight of the collection. Deconstruction was taken to a higher level for each entry turning the fabulous textiles into superbly crafted outfits.

N & S GAIA

If the modern fashionista favours a look that will make an imaginative fashion statement then the N & S GAIA label will be the perfect answer.

LALIT SENGAR’S DEBUT COLLECTION SYLVAN SWAIN GAVE FASHIONABLE DIRECTIONS TO BOTH SEXES AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

Lalit Sengar’s debut collection at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 was called “Sylvan Swain” that was inspired by the Art Nouveau era when ornamental style and architecture was prevalent. Combining form, texture, space and colour, the asymmetric lines were perfect with the right touches of style and creativity. When cutting edge construction and perfect tailoring met, then the result had to be great.

Sengar

Presenting a predominantly men’s wear collection with just three printed layered silk gowns for women, the construction was unconventional and Avant Garde in nature with Lalit allowing his creativity to push the envelope.

Giving an old world charm to the garments, Lalit used Indian textiles like cotton, Chanderi, linen and added his design sensibilities with block prints, hand embroidery and screen prints. Opting for a palette of pastels like beige, ecru, grey and white; the collection had a variety of flowing and constructed pieces. Solids and prints came in subtle unison to present an interesting result.

Sengar

One-button sleeveless double breasted jacket with printed lining, voluminous pants, waistcoats with shoulder detailing, sloppy Tees and geometric patchwork added stylish touches to the ensembles. A printed giant flat collar jacket had solid sleeves, while the trouser silhouette was wide.

Ending the show was VJ and actor Purab Kohli who strutted down the ramp sporting a printed jacket with button detailing, worn with baggy salwar pants.

Putting an emphasis on multiple layers and drapes for separates with mix and match options, Lalit Sengar offered a timeless quality for his collection.

KARISHMA SAHANI KHAN’S “KAAM KAAJ” COLLECTION PRESENTED THE BEAUTY OF AJRAKH AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

Mumbai, 14^th March 2014: Focusing on the craft of Ajrakh, block printing and natural dyeing from Gujarat; Karishma Sahani Khan’s collection called “Kaam Kaaj” was an ode to tradition at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.

Ka Sha

Inspired by the attire of local vendors, workers and tailors; the collection had touches of gamchas, shirts, lehengas with utility pockets for inners and outers that revealed fashion from cultural India. Keeping the silhouettes feminine with an androgynous influence, the slightly flared waisted dresses had large embroidered patch pockets in pure white or navy that looked classy over white flowing long skirts. Relaxed shapes along with cool natural fabrics gave the collection a laid back image of summer dressing.

 Ka Sha

Embroidery in multi-coloured flowers appeared at strategic points of the garments like the drop cut-out shoulders, collars, sleeves and skirts. Saris were teamed with cropped shirts, knotted front hem skirts were rustic in nature, printed slit flared dress, fake bolero and blouson with a sari were interesting options in the collection.

With mix and match choices provided, there is a lot women can do if there is Karishma Sahani Khan’s “Kaam Kaaj” collection in their wardrobes.

*** More coming soon on KA SHA.

PRATIMA PANDEY’S COLLECTION WAS AN ODE TO TRUE LOVE AT LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014

Mumbai, 14^th March 2014: Pratima Pandey, a NIFT graduate has been making waves on the fashion scene for some years. Her collection titled “Jack n Jill” was an ode to true love at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 under her label “Prama”.

PRAMA by Pratime Pandey

The very feminine line of garments in silk Chanderi and pure cotton were ideal for romantic summer evenings when lovers stroll down the garden path.  It was a story of three layers – churidars or loose pants, crinkled cotton midis and white sheer tunics with tonal or multi-coloured embroidery.

PRAMA by Pratime Pandey

Layers of the luxurious fabric predominantly in shades of ecru with tiny hints of green, peach, orange, rust and flecked with gold Khari had a fusion look. The “A” line silhouette was the focal point of the collection while drapes for kurtas added a feminine touch. The intricate embroidery further highlighted the serene beauty of the ensembles as the models glided down the ramp.

PRAMA by Pratime Pandey

Detailing was restricted on the sheer Chanderi covers in the form of cowl necklines, epaulets, appliqués, churi sleeves, empire line shapes; asymmetric openings while most the garments were topped with refreshing off-white scarves.

For a great summer look Pratima Pandey’s “Jack n Jill” collection was a combination of style and feminine elegance, ideal for the trendy dresser.

SWAPNIL SHINDE’S LAKMÉ FASHION WEEK SUMMER/RESORT 2014 UBER GLAM COLLECTION WAS “AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER”

It was glamour from the elegant beautiful era of Hollywood’s 1950’s that inspired Swapnil Shinde to create his collection called “An Affair to Remember” for Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014.

 Swapnil Shinde

Working around a gentle soft colour palette of beige, egg shell, jet black, mustard, berry and slate blue, Swapnil wove a web of glitzy mystery for his signature bold silhouettes. Keeping the heart motif as his key elements, the elaborate ensembles with voluminous silhouettes and tiny cinched waists had that Swapnil Shinde stamp of stunning drama as the models glided down the catwalk.

The fabric base was ethnic as Swapnil played with traditional Maharashtrian Paithani weave with its antique gold and orange borders by adding geometric peacock prints. The embellishments also followed the geometric story with unique glass, PVC, organza and glass nylon to include glitter on the creations.

Swapnil Shinde

Giant multiple bows were the centre of attraction at the back, while solid colours like black, white, purple highlighted the Paithani weaves. Micro pleating was the perfect complement for the skirts accompanying peplum bustiers, white organza blouses and the dolman sleeve tops.

Using Paithani borders for the skirts, Swapnil interspersed them with white to create an interesting palette. Skirts were mini, pencil or with drop waists while a pair of bubble shorts gave the traditional fabric a modern silhouette.

Swapnil Shinde

The final gowns with ornate bodices moulded from Paithani fabric with sheer tiered skirts, black corset gown with rouched bodice and layered skirts were drama at its best.The specially designed footwear added to the ultra-stylish appeal of the collection.

For the lady who wants to make a memorable entry it has to be Swapnil Shinde’s collection “An Affair to Remember” that will turn it into a reality.