Kochi women take great pride in their dressing, is what an elementary survey conducted by brand Ritu Kumar has found. That's the reason why the designer has chosen to open a full-fledged eponymous store on S.A.Road in the city. Done in contemporary style, unlike its other stores, Ritu Kumar here is stocked big and beautiful.
Bridal collection
The gorgeous, bridal wear ensemble—Ri, with its deep, rich Indian embroidered motifs to the more everyday wearable collection of crepe saris, both heavy and light, and also the more recently launched Label line of Western wear, the inventory has a range for all dapper dressers. “Of course we will be adding more to the variety, after we see the response,” says Chanda Bhalla, Manager- Business Development.
Chanda, who does product selection for Ritu Kumar stores across the country, says that Kochi needs a special, wholesome collection. Her findings are that ornate, heavy wear as well as the more regular, wearable kinds move from shelves and racks here. “If a slinky top will sell in Mumbai it may not do so in New Delhi,” but here she finds that all kinds have takers. This can be attributed to the strong and steady NRI crowd and the more travelled citywallahs, who keep abreast of changing fashion trends.
Right blend
Designer wear is generally for deep pockets or many a times it is not so wearable, but in the case of Ritu Kumar, says Chanda, one can find a right blend of products that match design and price.
The bridal collection has richly embroidered lehngas in deep bright colours. Embroidery is the hallmark of this colourful couture.
Paisleys, bootis, the best of traditional karigiri are all found on the exquisite pieces, embellishing them multi-fold. Achkans in brocade and heavy kurtas, kurtis for the special occasion are there.
Heavy and bright crepe saris fit for wedding functions are there. The prices begin at Rs.10,000. There is a lighter, printed range the prints being eclectic and rare, beautifully contrived into eye-catching designs.
Label line
The Label line, which the designer has brought out with her son, Amrish, comprises tunics, jackets, shirts, scarves and skirts. In cotton, semi-wool and silk fabrics, this line is also showcased at the Ritu Kumar outlet at Ethnic Passage in Jew Town. A line of chic accessories is also in the store.
For the city to have an exclusive outlet of a brand which compliments the rich lineage of Indian traditional design says much about good grooming and high dressing.
Kochi seems to be on its way to haute couture!
