The recently held Bangalore Fashion Week, this year, witnessed winter collections with a contemporary twist on ethnic wear. The 17th edition of the four-day event featured celebrity showstoppers including Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Pallavi Sharda, Rahul Dev, Sharmeila Mandre and Pranita Subash. Here’s a look into the collections of the veterans at the show:
Abhishek Dutta
The designer for the first day was Abhishek Dutta, who has worked with actors such as Vidya Balan and Konkona Sen Sharma. His collection at the show was characterised by the migrating instincts of birds woven in digital prints. Talking about the latest line , Abhishek says, "As a child, I always loved going for treks and spending time outdoors, which served as my inspiration. The migrating instincts not only represent the essence of freedom, but also address the important issue of extinction". Drawing a parallel between the birds intricately captured on his design and the weavers, he says, "something must be done to sustain the profession of weavers, otherwise they will be lost like the migratory birds".
He has incorporated the Baluchari silk textiles in his collection because, "it is a high fashion fabric which was earlier used for making traditional sarees, but is now used for making cushion covers and men's jackets, and mainly garments which attract the youth. The aim is to not only prevent the silk from becoming extinct, but also to enable the weavers to sustain their employment".
Elaborating on the issue, he says “I have collaborated with the West Bengal Correctional Services, where about 40 inmates were trained to stitch hand woven, sustainable material into shoes, bags and garments. The idea was to give the inmates a new lease of life by making them financially independent and productive". This clothing line was inaugurated at the Tihar Jail Festival.
Monapali
Monapali's collection for the second day was inspired by the 'tree of life' concept which occurs in many cultures. The lively sister-duo Monapali say "This collection represents the different elements of nature -- air, water, fire and earth. The silk and georgette fabric collection carries a youthful and modern touch." After spending a considerable amount of time in this industry, they feel that fashion trends keep coming back. "Fashion trends keep getting recycled and revived time and again, depending upon their relevance".
Talking about the gaining prominence of unisex clothing, they say, "although, there is a separate unisex section which incorporates gender neutral fashion, the gap between men's and women's fashion will not bridge anytime soon. Both genders are more at ease embracing their own masculinity or femininity and so, the demand for both men's and women's fashion will remain".
Pria Kataria Puri
The collection for the third day "Firsdus" was launched by internationally acclaimed designer Pria Kataria Puri, who has worked with public figures such as Paris Hilton and Oprah Winfrey. "Firsdus is derived from the Persian word 'Fridaus' which means paradise. The collection that found its inspiration from the Middle-East, gives out a charming, elegant and feminine vibe which is perfect for a festive occasion like a destination wedding, Diwali party or even for Christmas or New Year's Eve. The fabric used is that of fine satin and crepe silk from Italy, along with Chantilly lace and Riti feathers which add a touch of glamour," describes Pria.
One of the universal themes in her collections is that of 'Occidental Couture'. Talking about the same she says " The colours used are vibrant and exotic ranging from shades of peaches, to off white, and midnight blue; and sunset colours like red and orange. The embroidery work consists of floral prints which are aesthetically well placed. The collection incorporates kaftan silhouettes such as off shoulder cuts, and maxi kaftans which are not only comfortable to wear owing to their weightless nature, but can also be worn by anyone if draped intelligently, since they are not restricted to a particular size". By beautifully blending the exotic colours of the east and the kaftan silhouettes of the west, this collection also makes people feel comfortable yet elegant in carrying off their clothes.
Riyaz Gangji
The finale of the show featured Riyaz Gangji, known for his brand 'Libas', that he started along with his wife Reshma Gangji. The Horizon collection from Libas is inspired by his travel to Morocco. The collection features silk and polyester and is characterised by dark colours – shades of deep emerald, sapphire and black tones. He says "Libas is a personal quest to weave together unique styles and cultures. The designs are aimed at evoking an aura of mystique and is a mesh of ethnic and western styles”.
