Bidding farewell

It would certainly take more than the rain gods to cancel the graduation day and the fashion show of the Army Institute of Fashion Design (AIFD). In spite of it raining cats and dogs, people poured in large numbers to witness this significant celebration.

One would think the delay would agitate this gathering, which so strongly adheres to punctuality, but it did not seem to bother them too much. In true army discipline and hospitality, the students were seen assisting parents and well wishers to their seats. While the women were either tending to their children or catching up after a long time, the men were sitting upright exchanging a joke or two.

The entire graduation programme was short and sweet, giving way to the most awaited part of the night — The Fashion Show. In no time, the entire ambience took a different turn. Students still pursuing their degree in fashion designing were hooting for their favourite designers and friends. Not to forget, the proud parents slowly slipping away from their relaxed positions to a more upright posture, eagerly awaiting their child’s collection.

Showcasing the most thought-provoking and heart rendering collection was Senthil, a BSc graduate. On being asked what inspired him, he said, “It was a woman. I didn’t realise she was physically disabled. We got talking and she asked me why fashion didn’t include them. This had a huge impact on me, so I created a collection for the ‘differently abled’.” Senthil won the Best Creation Design 2009 and also has his own label.

With a different collection was Sharat Khan, who won the Best Designer Award in the UG section. His collection was titled ‘Dirt Biking’. Sharat kept in mind the average spending Indian customer, making his designs affordable. He aspires to pursue an MBA at the London School of Business.

Proving stiff competition to the boys were the graduating girls with their exquisite designs. Ruksana Nawab, who won the Best Collection Award, titled her designs ‘The Mystery’. This was semi-formal men’s wear. On the other extreme, was Inchara and her bridal wear collection. Inchara’s showstopper was carried on a palanquin, leaving the audience in awe.

On a different note, there was one boy prancing around all excited after winning the Best Designer Students’ Choice Award. The ambitious Shafique Ahmed said, “I knew I had what it takes. I feel excellent! Now I want to get into a well reputed institute like NIFT.”

For the students, Design Dapple 2009, surely was a stepping stone to a successful future.