29th JAN 2010
  Text: Alka Shankernarayan
 
DESIGNER : Abdul Halder
Italian inspiration
Abdul Halder’s collection emphasized the use of Italian textile and his experience working with design houses based in Italy. Apparently all fabric for men is sourced from Martinelli, Versace and Zegna. The womenswear collection incorporates greens, over 110 shades of pink and his trousseau wear for women - particularly the lace-embellished bridal wear series in white – remind me of Eli Saab Couture. Classic, feminine, well-cut trousseau wear.
 
           
 
               
 
 
DESIGNER : Sharad Raghav
A Tribute to Lord Krishna
Sharad Raghav’s collection was a tribute to Lord Krishna, evident from the bandanas he put on all the male models. In fact, he even sent out a model, Zoheb, who was body painted to perfection, to depict Radha’s lover. The designer has focused on using hand-woven textiles; especially Banarasi brocade, and ensured each piece has been hand-crafted and embellished painstakingly by Indian craftsmen. The highlight of this collection are the bottom-wear for the men – be it Jodhpur pants, patialas or a dhoti. Ornately embellished trousseau wear for men in rich maroons, blues, yellows, ochre and red were also shown. The showstopper for the show was none other than the next to show, designer Abdul Halder.
 
           
 
           
 
                 
 
 
DESIGNER : Preeti Chandra
The Highlight of Day Two
Preeti Chandra's collection is feminine and free-flowing; suitable for the lounge deck or lazy luncheons. The collection features mildly sequinned dhoti trousers, chic jumpers, embellished shrugs - a little bit of sequin, crystals and lots of textured dyeing - the highlight colours being neon pink and blue. Several pieces have been digitally printed and feature paisley prints and florals. Colours were tones of chalk, pink and kaolin - primarily monotones with stark neon pink and blue overtones. One shoulder dresses, skinny pants and maxis comprise the collection. The champagne halter neck gown was the highlight in the evening wear category, paired with chunky crystal accessories, with Miss India Pooja Chopra as her showstopper. Accessories included chunky bangles in matching tones and silver belts. Choreographed by Achla Sachdev, this show was the highlight of Day 2 - with respect to the collection, music and presentation.
 
           
 
           
 
                     
 
 
DESIGNER : Lakshmi Jagmohan
A Beautiful Blend of Traditional and Modern
Bangalore-based Lakshmi Jagmohan's designs blend traditional textiles and modern embroidery from Karnataka's various villages. Hand-woven khadi silk pantsuits, and peacock-inspired raw silk skirt-suits added an interesting note to the collection. It was a flurry of colours ranging from kala-khatta to emerald green. There were several blues and greens interspersed with indigo, peachy tones, reds, golds, mithai-pinks as well as crystal-embellished blacks. The showstopper seemed to be a peacock-inspired lehenga and choli; hair accesorized with peacock feathers.
 
Lakshmi's collection features monotone saris with mild embellishment - primarily crystal – and Indo-Western pantsuits in handwoven textiles like khadi silk. There were also anarkali suits in satin, raw silk and khadi silk with overtones of gota work, lehengas and cholis. Structured for the trim older woman and best worn to a traditional South Indian ceremony.
 
           
 
                 
 
 
DESIGNER : Kavita Chandak
Colourama
Kavita Chandak’s collection was a profusion of colour with dreamy circles, rock formations, fish eye and sandstone patterns creating subtle drama on the clothes. These are beautiful summer dresses – there was appliqué work in mint green and bubblegum pink, and a series of green shades ranging from the one you would see on a parakeet to those seen on a paanwala’s tray.
 
Kavita’s collection of eveningwear uses a mix of tie-and-dye interspersed with layers, appliqué, textures marked by thread work, quilted silk, and stark wave and spiral patterns in shades of moss green, aquamarine and algae. Dyes have been used to achieve a mosaic effect interspersed with edgy batik inspirations, and on occasion a threadbare look.
 
           
 
           
 
 
DESIGNER : Anitha Vadivel and Priya Singh
Delicate and visually stark
Anitha Vadivel's collection takes inspiration from the typical New Yorker. Hues of black and white are patterned to make for simple yet interesting dresses. Sensuous satins are structured to fit seamlessly. These are clothes simple enough to wear on a night out and interesting enough for dinner with the family. I wouldn't say you could wear them to Cipriani's or Nobu; but most definitely look breathtaking on a date at the local deli. It's fuss free yet eclectic. Delicate yet visually stark. Her pieces are classic and can be worn year around.
 
Nothing great to write home about
Priya Singh's collection comprised saris meant to highlight the silhouette. Her collection of dresses and Indianwear featured browns and creams interspersed with red, green tones, purple. However, we felt the clothes lacked a definite a form; a structure to call their own. Key accessories were glass bangles.
 
           
 
                 
 
28th JAN 2010
 
29th JAN 2010
 
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