As models sashayed on the ramp at the International Leather Fair fashion show, the star of the night was leather. It was used to create skirts, dresses and jackets both sleek and sensuous, going to show how you can adapt this material to suit your need. Revealing the Spring-Summer 2015 leather collection, retail and fashion brands came together to forecast the trend for the next year. Showstoppers for the night were Rochelle Rao (Miss India International 2012) and Parvathy Omanakuttan (Miss World 2008 first runner-up).
Happy feetThe night started off high on cute quotient as little girls and boys walked the ramp in white T-shirts and shorts, showcasing smart sports shoes and sandals by Bachi. Inspired by the 1970s’ clutter-free chic style was Chaitanya Rao’s creations for Unipel Corporation — jackets teamed with shorts and capris, dresses in leopard prints with metallic finish for women and jackets in bright blue-and-white combination and animal prints for men. Orient Express displayed leather with sheer cotton, and Rochelle was in a leather dress, with the cotton frills lending it a feminine touch. Bhartiya International Fashion showcased pencil skirts with peplum jackets, knee-length dresses and cigarette pants in glossy leather. The grey, leather-stripped dress featured was reminiscent of the classic stripes made popular by Chanel.
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And who knew one could make a beautiful flowing dress from leather? Thanks to innovation, dresses are now made of specially blended leather that lets you breathe. Tata International showcased its clothing line inspired by the latest trend in leather fashion — from the biker-look jacket to playful cartoon prints, there was a gamut of ideas and influences on display. Its ‘Aerosoles’ footwear collection for men and women too was showcased; the line is slated to debut this April.
Bags are not just an accessory anymore — you can plan an entire look around them. This was evident in leather totes, sling bags and clutches displayed by D-2 International from Kolkata. A.V. Thomas Leathers & Allied Products showcased handbags for women and work bags for men. Clean lines and practical, these bags are both trendy and resourceful. Gaitonde Shoes & Accessories and Gupta Overseas, Agra, presented creations that spelt elegance.
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The finale was by Calonge. Braided leather has been its trademark, and it used this technique across shoes and bags; the bigger the better seemed to be the trend. Arm candies, these bags came in myriad colours and were roomy — perfect for a work day.