Lakmé Fashion Week Summer Resort ’14: Day 1

Tarun Tahiliani’s Spectacular Collection

The first day of Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2014 witnessed a beautiful mix of contemporary cuts and Indian ethnic silhouettes. After Manish Malhotra’s grand opening as an off-site show, amidst the glamor and glitz of Bollywood divas, the first day of the fashion event began with the GenNext Show. The first show presented a group of six enthusiast and creative designers – Ujjawal Dubey, Vilvin Sabu, Chandni Mohan, Divya Seth, Parun Bhargava and Shreejith Jeevan who enthralled the spectators with their out-of-the-box designs. We loved Divya Sheth’s collection that showcased a blend of the East and the West. Unconventional silhouettes accentuated with Indian textiles brought a fresh twist. A blend of khadi, Ikat, Jamdani weaves with accents of fine Indian embroidery injected a touch of Indian-ness to her collection. On the other hand, Sougat Paul’s showcase of color blocked pre-stitched saris and interesting play of digital prints, floral motifs and beaded embellishments was reminiscent of the old world charm.

Divya Seth’s Couture

Tribal Tribute by Vaishali Shadangule

As the day progressed, the level of creativity on showcase also multiplied, which left the spectators asking for more. From Nishka Lulla’s pastel treat to Nikhil Thampi’s fluent shift from the sober palette to high octane glamorous outfits, the first day saw a plethora of designs in innovative cuts and styles. Besides the new lot of designers, we also loved the tribal tribute presented by Vaishali Shadangule. She artistically wove the tribal khadi fabrics that portrayed a striking representation of Indian crafts and style – a perfect assortment for your summer closet.

The last show was the much-awaited show presented by the Czar of Indian Fashion – Tarun Tahiliani. Models sashayed down the runway, decked up in Indian attires. His collection defined understated elegance that brought forward the essential need of dressing up for ceremonies and festivities. The collection opened with the black and white brigade of kurtas, drawstring kaftans, dhoti sarees, lehenga cholis with net dupattas and kalidar style kurtas.

Each ensemble was an architectural marvel with a surreal interpretation of layers, panels, and drapes. Bidri work, chikan embroidery, Kasab work, lace, vivid shades of ombre dyeing; augmented the heritage of Indian ethnic clothing with motifs and patterns. Indigo, mustard, fuchsia turning into sunset hues, beige and ivory created a color riot on the ramp. In order to revive the beauty of Indian heritage weaves, he also launched his exclusive collection of Indian handloom sarees and dupattas woven in traditional techniques. The grandeur and opulence came to a perfect ending as the gorgeous Jacqueline Fernandez walked the ramp in ombre dyed orange, pink and red net kalidaar kurta and churidar.

Showstopper Jacqueline Fernandez

Undoubtedly, the finale show was a complete visual treat! As we wrap-up Day 1 of LFW S/R 2014, stay tuned for the next line up of designs. Keep watching this space, as we weave words around Day 2 of this gala celebration of Fashion. Till then, stay Indian, stay stylish!

Signing Off with so much more to sniff at LFW S/R 2014

Team Utsav Fashion