The regal walk on ramp

After dazzling the audiences of New Delhi and Mumbai, this year’s edition of the fashion tour — Chivas Studio 2011 came to Bangalore during the weekend.  Held at a city hotel on Saturday night, the event quenched the people’s thirst for a glamourous fashion show as it was one of the best fashion shows of the recent times.  India’s top fashion designer Rohit Bal exhibited his collection titled Khakastari which means colours of ash.

Just like ash, the celebrated designer’s collection depicted simplicity at its best. The garments consisting of subtle colours and delicate shapes had an illusive feel to them and instantly took one back to the past.

As he explained his collection, Rohit said, “The collection is Khakastari which means different shades of ash. Ash is a mood and the mood is transformed into creative garments. It is steely, cold and harsh, and has a smoky yield of raging flames.  This collection is inspired by the resplendent glory of India’s rich cultural heritage and reflects the splendour, grandeur and luxury of the Indian couture. Just like ash, this collection depicts simplicity and purity with a distinct minimalism.”

An unusual but ethereal ramp was established near the poolside for the fashion show. As the event started, the male and female models walked the ramp in hues of cream, off white, maroon, gold and black and looked nothing less than royalties. The models had an inner glow to them as they truly enjoyed the stunning collection crafted by the mastermind Rohit Bal. As the show came to an end, the models slowly walked into the pool and were joined in by the man of the evening — Rohit!

Mumbai-based supermodel Shamita Singha, who walked the ramp, has had a long association with the designer and considers him as a fantastic person to work with.

“He is professional, kind and courteous,” she noted. Shamita also believed that this particular collection of his was one of his best.  “His clothes are always opulent, regal and beautiful and this collection was the same. The clothes fit well and were beautifully structured. Getting into the pool wearing a plain ivory dress made me feel so beautiful,”
she said. “He is truly a showman as he can show clothes, drama and creativity,” she exclaimed delightfully. “Don’t see it as something that you can wear in everyday life, just see the collection as a mark of his creativity,” she quipped.

For the connoisseurs

On day two of the Chivas  Studio event, City’s art and music lovers were treated to a brunch hosted by artist Bharat Sikka. Along with the colourful CityInspired contemporary work by Sikka, there was an array of photographs by Bose Krishnamachari. As the afternoon progressed, the invitees were treated to soulful folk fusion songs by Hari and Sukhmani. And gracing the event was designer Rohit Bal, whose fashion show on the previous night, was much talked about in the party.