Fashion in myriad hues

A magnificent set reminiscent of a Hollywood red carpet event was the setting for Ashish Soni’s collection ‘La Dolce Vita’, which was also the finale of the five-day long Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, Spring Summer 2014.

Jackets, crisp white shirts, swirling circle skirts dominated women wear whereas in men’s collection Ashish’s interpretation of tuxedo suits and dinner jackets came as a perfect option for modern black-tie events.

The remaining days saw a mix of pret and couture in Indian and Western wear. Gaurav Gupta’s collection, ‘Akaaro,’ saw a lot of washed out cotton silks with crushed jacquards. Designer Rajdeep Ranawat came up with ‘Rococco’ and used bamboo thickets, juicy fruits, vivid flowers and exotic birds as props.

Designer Joy Mitra, who has worked with Rituparno Ghosh as a costume director paid tribute to the story teller through her collection ‘Chokher Bali’.  Free-flowing anarkalis and tunics with Zardozi and small white pearl beads were the highlights in her collection. Cream, black and gold dhoti bottoms, crop tops and jackets in fabrics like cottons, silks, georgettes and chiffons were praiseworthy.

Focusing on the home-grown Indigo, designer Vaishali S presented a mix of contemporary fusion silhouettes mainly in ivory and indigo and extensively used Kantha and Aari embroidery. Designer Pia Pauro remained stuck to her trademark style of prints and introduced the South-African tribal prints on halter dresses, tunics and jumpsuits.

Designer Shivan and Naresh, popular for their beachwear, introduced a micro-light, water friendly lehanga and also, the destination weddings saree which incorporates pockets to keep cellphone to keep travel woes at bay!

Designer Samant Chauhan unveiled his latest collection on history of Rajputanas. Strong gold Zari work resonated with the bravery and luxury of royal India. The designer continued to explore his forte - working with Bhagalpur silk in neutral shades. Whites, beige, nude, gold and red were seen peeping from given forms of voluminous gowns, full ghaghras, sarees, fish cut dresses and jackets.

Jenjum Gadi derived inspiration from various insects that are seen around and his monochromatic prints looked outstanding. The designer beautifully captured the movement of insects and their colonies to juxtapose it on flowy surfaces.

Designer Hemant and Nandita presented a go easy collection with elements like laces, polka and heart prints on denims, organza and net along with a lot of thread embroideries.

Charu Parashar took inspiration from the Persian culture. Intricate embroideries and woven patterns on flare pants, jumpsuits with draped tops, silk chiffon tops dominated her work.