Future ready

Three new designers who made a mark at last week’s LFW

Shahin Ansari, the brains behind the edgy Chennai multi-designer store Maalgaadi, was at LFW last week and here are her picks of new designers who made her sit up and take notice. Other than the big names, like Savio Jon who returned after many years, and AM.IT who launched his new pret line, these debutants and second-timers brought their fresh perspective to fashion, and are sure to make it big soon, in her opinion.

Soumodeep Dutta’s interpretation of the classic Bengali red-and- white saree in this hand-stitched collection of separates and sarees was minimalistic chic at its best. The NIFT graduate brought a modern interpretation of the traditional drape into tunics and flowy dresses that seemed perfect for sweaty summers.

From the GenNext collection, Poochki by Ishanee Mukherjee and Anirudh Chawla, debuted their collection filled with unusual prints (think fishes, pandas, waves and storks) in sheer fabrics marked by trademark voluminous sleeves and plenty of ruffles. Easy, breezy separates and sheer organza became their trademark look, and it found a great following.

Continuing the focus on handlooms was Paridhi Jaipuria’s collection called ‘Bunai’ that used hand weaving and hand beading, creating a modern easy style while blending traditional fabric with modern embellishment. With a focus on layering for summer and comfortable silhouettes, Jaipuria’s second innings at LFW did strike a chord.