Handloom tryst in Dubai

Shravan Kummar’s collections in a mix of handlooms courted the spotlight at Dubai Fashion League 2018

Sunny Leone in a Shravan Kummar creation

Dressed in a minimalistic ivory white lehenga and choli, Sunny Leone was the showstopper for Hyderabad designer Shravan Kummar’s collection at the recently concluded Dubai Fashion League Series 2018. Season 2 of the fashion league series showcased collections of 24 designers and exhibitors from different countries, and Shravan’s collection was featured on the opening night of the three-day extravaganza, held from March 29 to 31.

Saris, lehengas, kurtas, flowy jackets, sherwanis and tuxedos in handlooms formed Shravan’s collection. “I used a mix of handlooms – Mangalagiri, kalamkari, Pochampally ikat, Banaras, Mata ni Pachedi (often referred to as Gujarati kalamkari) and khadi,” says Shravan.

Putting forth a strong case for breathable Indian handlooms at the event, Shravan took to the stage soon after the show and urged the gathering to patronise handlooms. “Its breathable quality makes it ideal for a region like Dubai that sees harsh sunny weather round the year. There is good demand for our handlooms and I am happy that orders are coming in, which will help our weavers,” he states.

Shravan’s collection was a riot of colours, adhering to palettes that each handloom is known for. Contrasting the bright mustards, oranges, reds, deep blues and pomegranate pinks was the showstopper ensemble in striking white, to stay in tune with the natural colour of the linen-khadi blend textile from Shadnagar, Telangana.

There were 32 ensembles for women and 16 for men, including khadi tuxedos. “This time, I avoided showcasing Kanjeevaram saris since I wanted the spotlight to be on other Indian handlooms for a global stage. We liaised with women weavers who badly need the money inflow that comes in with more international orders,” Shravan signs off.