It’s raining men’... The song opened the curtains to the annual fashion event dedicated to man. Called the Haywards Black India Men’s Fashion Fair (HBIMFF) 2007, the third edition of the fashion event, to kick off later this month in Bangalore, unveiled with a small fashion show as designers gave a sneak preview.

While couturier Rohit Bal showcased his Istanbul-inspired Siyahi collection from WLIFW 2008 with breech pants and jackets in blues, others showcased creations designed specially for HBIMFF 2007.

Models for designer Asif Shah flaunted classic black suits, inspired by a new black beer. Bangalore-based Namrata G showcased an ethnic line with harem pants and kurtas. Others to display were Ayaz Khan, Lokessh Ahuja and Madura Garments.

Several top-notch designers from India are participating this time, despite it taking place right after the Lakme Fashion Week. The participating designers line-up includes Manish Malhotra, Rajesh Pratap Singh and Tarun Tahiliani among others.

International designers Bibi Russell (Bangladesh), Lecoanet Hemant (France) Darshi Keerthasena (Sri Lanka), Deepak Perwani (Pakistan) and Nico Kubisch (London) will also set the Indian ramp afire.

The repeat list includes Raghavendra Rathore, J J Valaya, Wendell Rodricks, Shantanu and Nikhil, Narendra Kumar and Varun Bahl among others. The runway will also see Bangalore labels Turquoise and Gold, Omair, Amanda and Sanchita.

So, how different will the fair be this year? Explained show mentor Prasad Bidapa, “The show will take place at the Sheesh Mahal, Bangalore Palace. It can accommodate over 1000 people.

The 80-feet long runway will be witnessed by an audience seated on round tables unlike the front row style. The big news is that many brands are interested in meeting the designers. If this synergy happens, consumers will soon be treated with many diffusion lines.”

However, this year fresh faces in the modelling world are replacing the top ones — a deliberate decision. “It’s all about the new. Just like the new Indian cricket team. New models have to start from somewhere. Moreover, the demand for fresh, tall skinny boys is very high with designers,” opined Prasad.

Third time in a row, how important has the event come to be? “It’s the perfect time for such an event because men are so appearance-conscious today,” said designer Amanda, a second time participant. Designer Asif added, “For the first time, I have created a western line for men. I always did ethnic wear. IMFF persuaded me to go that extra mile.”

Talking about Bangalore as the venue, Shital Menon, brand director of Van Heusen, said, “HBIMFF is a consumer-centric fashion event and Bangalore is the real market for our brands.”

To which Prasad ended on a fashionable note, “Dance, music, art, literature and fashion —these are the five tenets of cultural expression. From a housewife to a student, I want everyone who appreciates fashion to be there. IMFF is not an exclusive but an inclusive event.”

HBIMFF will take place from October 24 to 27 with over 10 designers showcasing their work everyday. Contact 22105544 for passes.