Fashion Beyond the Metros
Ask yourself what Raipur, Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Surat, Ludhiana and Indore have in common, besides the fact that they are rapidly developing cities in India? The answer is that these and a few other Tier two cities are strengthening their affair with designer labels with an unheard of urgency.
Chinese Chikankari Anyone?
The Chinese are now trying to copy chikankari, they love it so much! says Komal Mirchandani from Sanskrit in Hong Kong. One of the first India-inspired clothing & accessories stores in South East Asia, Komal has been visiting Indian fashion weeks since 2002 to source for Sanskrit. She says her store in Hong Kong works well simply because Indian craftsmanship cannot be replicated. 80 % of my clientele is the local, Chinese or expat population. They love the diversity and detail of Indian embroideries and they prefer to buy a piece from us because it is so unique, unlike a Gucci dress that is available in too many numbers and sizes.
Tarun Tahiliani @ WIFW AW 12
The master of drapes has worked his magic and left us mesmerized with his gorgeous creations this season too. Plums, navys, blacks, maroons and burnt oranges cascaded down the ramp in a variety of figure flattering silhouettes to leave fashion lovers awestruck.
The Next Episode by Shantanu Singh
Saving the world one dress at a time was the idea behind Shantanu Singhs collection that is inspired by penguins and global warming. The Next Episode, his label beautifully puts together the idea called Save the World that is depicted through his collection.
Nupur Kanoi @ WIFW AW 12
Nupur Kanoi took an alternative route to style with striking contrasts this season. The idea about structure and fluidity melding together to form a beautiful concoction of sorts came through with Kanois new collection aptly called The Troy Story.
Gaurav Gupta @ WIFW AW 12
Drape and surface ornamentation go hand in hand when it comes to Gaurav Guptas signature and this season, he went a bit ahead and created looks with beautiful prints and structured ideas. The show began with form-fitted jackets and suits that gave the modern woman a powerful silhouette.
Pero by Aneeth Arora @ WIFW AW 12
The traveling gypsy is back once again as Pero by Aneeth Arora brings together modern bohemia in earthy tones, soothing colours and beautifully woven fabrics. This time, its layering that takes the collection to a whole new level with fun knits, cute berets and vintage retro leather trunks that seem to be giving this collection a playful feel.
Taurus by Dhruv and Pallavi @ WIFW AW 12
The prêt line Taurus by Dhruv and Pallavi is a simple yet opulent collection that brings back antique embroideries and embellished bodices and almost warrior-like ensembles that focus on young confident woman through royal blues and contouring ensembles.
Vaishali S @ WIFW AW 12
Simplicity is at the helm of all things beautiful and Vaishali proved this right with her newest collection that bordered on Sufism. With thick topis, the long and luxuriously flowing kurtas the idea of purity and solace comes through in the collection.
Rishta by Arjun Saluja @ WIFW AW 12
Tailoring, that will always be the strength of Arjun Salujas collection and true to form, this time too, his Navy blue and earthy brown well tailored garments with innovative sleeves and power shoulders take centre stage at WIFW.