Valaya closes WIFW with Kangana in Ottoman-themed show

With international musicians, a belly dancer and other signs of Turkish culture, designer JJ Valaya brought the curtains down on the Autumn-Winter edition of WIFW with his ode to the historic Ottoman Empire and Kangana Ranaut as the show stopper.

Besides the Bollywood actress, 12 personalities from the field of fashion, art, entertainment and music also walked the ramp for JJ Valaya as he wrapped up Wills India Fashion Week.

Designers Suneet Verma, Rohit Bal were among the runway stars of the night, who helped Valaya showcase his Ottoman Empire inspired collection.

Recreated on the runway was the famous Grand bazaar against a blue backdrop, with sights and sounds which took us back to the multicultural city of Istanbul.

International artist Volga Tunca played the daburka, Christian Jose Vare played kemenche and an oriental belly dance performance by dancer Ekaterina reflected the playful Turkish harmony.

A chandelier in the middle of the ramp, artisans sitting on the sides and a Turkish archway helped bring history to life in Valaya's show.

Kangana, who wore an ivory gown with a long brown and gold velvet coat teamed with heavy jewellery, looked regal in every way.

"It was not a cake walk for me because you get to do this once or twice a year. I feel I belong to the fashion world as much as to Bollywood. I walked for him two years ago at Couture Week and I feel special that he asked me to walk the ramp again for this show," the 24-year-old actress said.

Kangana also said that she wanted Valaya to design her wedding dress.

"I want JJ to find a groom for me so that he can design my wedding trousseau. It is his responsibility now," she added.

"Kangana's sense of style is good. After working with her for the Couture Week two years ago, I wanted her to be the show stopper for me this time as well," Valaya said.

Valaya's collection named 'Azrak', meaning rare and uncommon, showcased a cultural partnership and pact that bore a tradition of rich visual craft.

Starting with a monochromatic palate in ivories and black, the collection gradually treaded into the territory of colours.

"It is a journey from ivory to colour. It is an ode to the beautiful Ottoman empire, which was so rich in arts and crafts. I also wanted real men to showcase my menswear so I asked friends from different walks of life to display the collection. In all I had 12 show stoppers," Valaya said.

Models sashayed down in jackets, custom made leggings, denims, sarees, shirts, blouses, dresses. A select range of menswear was also showcased, which complimented the look and feel of the women's wear.

The WIFW finale was the beginning of a year-long celebration for the designer who completes two decades in fashion this year. PTI JCH BB 02201227