One show, two aesthetics

ALL ABOUT MOVEMENT One of Priyadarshini Rao's creations

Designers Priyadarshini Rao and Nikasha Tawadey launch their Spring-Summer 2011 line on January 24. While there's a lot in common with their colour palette, their sensibilities are distinct. A peek into their work that's being featured at Collage.

PRIYADARSHINI RAO

INSPIRATION Whirling Dervish

WHAT'S IT ABOUT Since the collection draws references from mystical dancers who stand between the material and cosmic worlds, the fabrics are light and sheer and the shapes are voluminous to add movement.

Mull, voile, raw-edged knits and georgettes are designed into long tunics and dresses. Cropped tops in busy prints and kurtas with tapestry embroidery are other highlights.

NIKASHA TAWADEY

INSPIRATION Awakening, new beginning and freedom

WHAT'S IT ABOUT Celebration of the theme with a burst of floral embroidery. Creme, champa, ombre, and coral are the predominant colours.

The silhouettes are breezy and the cuts unconventional and asymmetrical. Wrap pants, tops with muslin skirts, saris and skirts come in hand-woven cotton and georgette.

The sari-inspired draped kurta (with an attached dupatta which can be worn any which way) is a significant detour from the usual.

Tawadey's eye for rare embroidery is noticeable in the way she has refined tribal Kutch work and incorporated it in her work.