Lakme fashion week

Black magic
THE bling epidemic hasn’t yet caught with Raakesh Agarvwal whose palette is dominated by black. High ponytails and pointed heels, the models created an outer space effect. The use of techno fabrics like boiled Cashmere, lamb’s wool, Charmeuse satin, tulle, jersey and silk velvet, lent a touch of freshness to his line. There was a variety to choose from—palazzo pants to leg-o-mutton sleeved shirts, short blouson hem dresses to floor-length panelled shirt dresses and the rather common boat necks and halters. The stoles and jackets used as accessories did not really suggest anything different. Crystals and embroideries highlighted the patterns and gave life to the neutral colour.

Comfort clothing
RUCHI Mehta’s collection saw a combination of western and ethnic wear, with a lot of experimentation in texture and colour. From frock-shaped and blob jackets to balloon dresses, to chiffon saris with Kantha work combined with braided neck blouses, her collection seemed fit for the one seeking comfort. But the highlight was the use of muted tones like old ivory, silver, coal complimented with misty blue, champagne red and ochre, which transported us to a quiet land. There was a lot of repetition in terms of cuts, where most of the focus was on volume rather than sharpness.

Old is told
KRISHNA Mehta was expected to make a huge comeback this season but disappointed. The clothes spelt comfort and wear-ability, but the style was ancient. Sherwani style kurtas with jewelled collars, chiffon shirts with bird-nest prints, rigorously cut jackets, slim and flowing empire-line dresses with leggings. The colours—rich reds, royal blues, deep greens, earthy browns and dull golds in natural fabrics, with an intriguing lustre and satin, was the only saving grace.

BUY THIS SOON
FROM bold retro colours to slim fit pants, going back in time seems to be the order of the day. Although the first day at the Lakme Fashion Week did not stir any big surprises or clever detailing, one tasty trend we noticed was the innovative use of scarves. Krishna Mehta dressed her kurtis with colourful scarves, while Arjun Khanna made a classy statement by teaming his scarves with metallic gold sherwanis and bomber jackets.
A few models tied it around their wrist, a few others around their tote bags. For style-seeking fashionistas, ask to be tied up and tied down.
PRIYANKA PEREIRA