Manish Malhotra
Ace designer Manish Malhotra rang down the curtains on the India Couture Week 2017 with his new collection, “Sensual Affair”. The Couture 2017-18 was a translation of his definition of feminism—where the modern woman embraces and fearlessly expresses her sensuality, a realm that has always belonged to a man. With three-dimensional embellishments, layered motifs and elaborate juxtaposition of texture, the label has astutely traded formal couture with flowy silhouettes and infinite skirt trails. The collection was an elaborate selection of 85 exquisite outfits. The collection presented an array of rich fabrics such as satin organza, silk tulle, micro velvet, satin velvet, two-tone silks, brought to life using antique metallic threadwork, pearls and luminous crystals. Swirls of sequins and swathes of shimmer and sheer play with light, like a canvas of a dreamy illusion.
Voluminous gowns and billowy lehengas have been crafted in shades of ivory, soft grey, vintage rose, burgundy and teal. For the men, structured sherwanis have been contrasted with fluid kurtas to create a bridge between the conformist outer-self and the liberated inner-self.
Speaking about the collection, Manish Malhotra expressed, “With Sensual Affair, I want to showcase the versatility and design-language of Indian couture. Outfits from the collection may be worn across occasions, from weddings to gala soirées. The intricacy of detailing, our strong textile history and vast knowledge of versatile drapes can be interpreted and worn from Mumbai to Milan.”
The showing concluded with the handsome Ranveer Singh in a midnight blue zardozi and thread-work embroidered sherwani paired with slim pants while Alia Bhatt looked ethereal in a sequined pearl embellished top with an olive 3D floral detailing multi-layered ruched net skirt. Guests such as Shweta Bachchan Nanda, Huma Quereshi, Sophie Choudry, Natasha Poonawala, Feroze Gujral to name a few graced the front row.
Anju Modi
Designer Anju Modi revives the royal culture of India through her couture collection, ‘SunehriKothi’ at India Couture Week. For the winter of 2017 she recreates a mystical ‘SunehriKothi’ (Golden Chalet), resplendent with waif like muses dressed in slender, exotic Indian costume akin to those that graced the miniature art of 16th century Rajasthan, especially Kishangarh. Very significantly, this collection builds on bravery, honor, chivalry and virtues that Rajputana culture has ever been known for. Many of AnjuModi’s designs are inspired from the Kishangarh School of art that Princess Vaishnavi Kumari of Kishangarh personally introduced to her. A student of art and the patron of this school, Vaishnavi’s art find great resonance in Anju’s collection.
“Traveling through the land of the kings, Rajasthan,I found myself on a road less taken to a humble yet resolutemansion,The SunehriKothi. Weathered and rugged exteriors did little to give away the grandeur of what was once a ‘Golden Chalet’. In this collection I bring alive its gold emblazoned interiors and intricate architectural detail, allowing a peak into the SunehriKothi that also emerged in the miniature art forms of that region, “Anju Modi talk to Guardian 20 about the collection.
The collection will be showcased in collaboration with Vishal Jewels a brand to reckon with, having 140 years of man experience in defining luxury with exquisite craftsmanship, producing best quality in their exclusive range of jewelry. The collection exhibits grandeur and magnificence, a regal edge to each piece having intricate details inspired from traditional artworks. The specially designed heritage jewellery for Anju Modi couture ensemble saree made of uncut and rose cut diamonds, emeralds and precious stones. Gorgeous actress Diya Mirza was the showstopper of the event. She was looking like stunning in the multicolored lehnga.
Manav Gangwani
Designer Manav Gangwani, presented his latest couture collection “India @ 70” at India Couture Week 2017. This show was an off site show held at the enchanting Lodhi Hotel in New Delhi. Disha Patani, new rising star of Bollywood was the showstopper of this show. Disha looked spectacular in MG’s grand creation, she adorned a black tassel blouse with an intricately embroidered lehenga.
The show was an extravaganza of handcrafted ensembles of over 70 exquisite styles for women. This collection is an amalgamation of the rich heritage of India along with modern edgy elements that are incorporated in each garment. MG has incorporated elements of design from different regions like Kashmir reflecting Jamawars, Bandhanis of Rajasthan, Kathakali from Kerala and Brocades of Varanasi. Using different techniques like Badla, Chikankari, Zardosi & Parsi etc. From the God & Goddesses of India to Meenakari to Patolas to Panthani all forms have been used to reflect India. The colour pallet for this collection are hues that are most commonly seen in India, royal blue, crimson, ivory, orange and green. One of the most unique pieces incorporated in this collection is an outfit that reflects the current movement and the very special project promoted by our country’s honourable PM, Shri Narendra Modi, “Make in India”, showcasing an intricately designed silhouette of a lio, this piece was displayed at the grand staircase of the hotel.
With each garment having an unusual and unique element, MG has tried to encapsulate design elements from different states of India using various techniques. The jewelry adorned by the models was specially designed by Paayal Gupta.
Speaking on his new collection, Manav Gangwani shared a few words, “We have so much inspiration around us in India, monumental structures, cultural diversity and geographical differences together have helped me curate this collection. I have taken inspiration from every region of India to create this uniquely dynamic collection. I have used techniques silhouettes and designs that together create a perfect amalgamation of traditionalism and authenticity. It is definitely a proud moment for me to see this collection come alive in such a mesmerizing way.”