Haute Designers, Master Weavers DOWNLOAD PDF

Lakme Fashion Week has set a benchmark for Indian designers. MEHER CASTELINO reports on the highlights.

The fabulous Walking Hand in Hand – The Craft + Design + Society show was one of the highlights of the first day at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2016. The innovative presentation featured India’s five top designers who teamed up with the best craftspersons and expert weavers. They displayed creations that combined designer and craft skills. Day Two was devoted to Sustainable and Indian Textiles. Designers presented interesting collections, showcasing textiles and crafts and also upcycling and recycling fabrics. The message was clear: fashion can be sustainable.

Chikankari came alive on the ramp under the creative guidance of Aneeth Arora. Master craftsman Jakir Hussain Mondol worked his magic on the pretty summer dresses, cool blouses, layered minis, softly embroidered longsleeved covers, delicately embellished midis, skirts and gowns in shades of white and pale blue/grey. Just perfect as the mercury rises.

Giving kinkhab his amazing touches, Rajesh Pratap Singh worked with master weaver Haseem Muhammad for a striking collection of formal westernwear. Using rich, golden brocade with floral weaves, Singh presented culottes with cropped tops, bias cut jackets, dhoti pants, capris, coat dresses, trouser suits, midi/maxi skirts, ‘A’ line midis, bell bottom pants and jacket combos. Add to that the double-breasted coat, and the look is decisive.

The glory of the leheriya was brought centre stage by Anupama Bose’s skills and Islammuddin Neelgar’s expertise. The gorgeous leheriya designs in rainbow hues were turned into stunning ensembles. A ravishing red kaftan, a feminine green/ blue gown, an electric anarkali, a variety of sarees in leheriya and the lehenga, choli and dupatta were perfect offering of memorable ethnic formals.