The 27th edition of Amazon India Fashion Week (AIFW) Autumn-Winter 2016 brought together the very best of designs in contemporary fashion to the capital. Fashion weeks are always exciting to watch. But when it comes to Amazon Fashion Week, it is the most awaited and highly strung time for the fashion designers and the models. While designers were busy launching their exclusive designs, models were seen charmingly dressed-up and frequently changing into brand new clothing with every walk. The five-day fashion extravaganza — touted to be one of the most awaited events in India’s fashion calendar — kicked off on Wednesday this week with the acclaimed designer Varun Bahl’s jungle-themed collection at Jawahar Lal Nehru stadium. The venue was brightly lit up and all set for the event.
Guardian 20 caught up with some of the participating designers at the event.
Anupama Dayal
“A change is always refreshing. The venue for this year — the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium is an interesting space for fashion week. This year’s trend would be 90’s looks, off shoulder styles and white shirts which I believe would be trending this season. As for beauty flat straight hair, interesting electric eye liner, both neon bright and nude lip works will be making the rounds. My collection this year draws inspiration from the Naga culture which has always fascinated me. A couple of months back, I visited Nagaland and got the opportunity to interact with the various tribes which made it easier for me to understand the culture better and was helpful in implementing it into my collection. My collection is all about fierce warrior in every woman, who stands up for herself and against injustice. Naga’s are also known for their techniques in textile, basketry, ornament making etc. Through my collection I am trying to provide a wider platform to my audience through the rich cultural heritage of not only the Naga’s but also other traditions and customs which exist in our country rather than blindly following what the West is doing.”
Hemant
“The Fashion Week has a lot to look forward to — the multiple designers finale, the menswear show, and the new venue! For us, it is always the presentation of our latest collection and of course the reactions we receive after it. Our collection this year is inspired by our love for travel, and we were inspired by our recent weekend trip to the mountains and the serenity that absorbed us while driving to our destination! The dense woods in the mountains and the fascinating beauty they emanate in the dark were in a way the catalyst and the core inspiration for the designs. We were able to translate it into our collection quite effortlessly.”
Nandita
“Specifically for Autumn/Winter, we feel the colours like deep shades of green, burgundy and a darker, moodier palette will be the key trends. The statement Outerwear pieces — after all outerwear does become more critical to an outfit in Fall/Winter. Also, contrasting elements – pairing rich and bold jacquards with soft, diaphanous blouses.”
Abhishek Gupta
“The fact that the event is centrally located and convenient for a lot of people is a great change considering the fact that AIFW is always the talk of the town. I feel for that reason we saw great turn out. Another highlight for me was definitely the introduction of a Men’s fashion show where we will have 8 renowned designers showcasing some of their best looks. We have several unique styles, colours, patterns and silhouettes coming down the runway. Sharp silhouettes with slim fit trousers and tailored jackets are always a big hit on the runway. Luxurious embroidery and tones of black, white and beige are always in vogue.”
Divyam Mehta
“The highlight for this year’s Amazon India Fashion Week for me, is the menswear. Recognizing the growing demand for men’s fashion in India, this is the first time Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) is hosting a menswear show. It’s time to experiment with your trousers, be at ease, low crotch, ankle length, draped, pleated, infuse craft in your wardrobe with shibori scarfs, embroidered pockets square and edgy sneakers. Play around with your shoes for a sporty luxe look, exotic mix of silhouettes and fabrics reflects the essence of a collection that skillfully binds multiple elements to craft a cohesive and comprehensive whole, and encapsulates the spirit of a man for whom freedom means diversity. I could already see a growing interest from buyers diversifying into menswear, it will take some time but we are quite hopeful.”