After a year of uncertainties in all spectrum, fashion in 2021 is all about rebuilding and realigning the community. This season, India’s two most prestigious fashion weeks have come together to unanimously strengthen and support this country’s younger and established talent.
FDCI x Lakmé Fashion Week’s first-ever collaborative edition kickstarted with a digital presentation from veteran designer Anamika Khanna. She showcased a line inspired by the changing course of time. Live demonstration of hand-painted floral and abstract visuals from artists Deepak Kumar Saw, Smriti Lekha Gogoi and Amlan Dutta enhanced the all-white section of Khanna’s presentation. Floor-length coats, double-breasted jackets, fluid pants, asymmetrical tunics and lehengas in intricate texture and colours were displayed in an artistic fashion film.
Gen Next Designers
FDCI x Lakmé Fashion launched two talented GenNext designers Rahul Dasgupta and Wajahat Rather. Inspired by his hometown of Kashmir, Wajahat unveiled a line of contemporary Pheran, the traditional silhouette of the region, fused with the craft of block print. Dasgupta’s opening line stemmed out of his quiet observations during the quarantine. Influenced by the waves of the sea, the frayed detailing, intense ribbing effect on the garments and the rippling of fabrics on the kurtas, gave a refreshing upgrade to menswear.
Bloni By Akshat Bansal
Championing the concept of gender-fluid fashion, Bloni by Akshat Bansal blended the traditional technique of tie-dye with a mix of globally sourced fabrics. This season they experimented with marine plastic waste textile, giving it a new lease of life.
Arpita Mehta
In collaboration with Logitech, Arpita Mehta showed her first-ever digital show during this fashion week. Against the natural backdrop of a summer sea, Arpita’s resort collection was fun, light and breezy. The silhouettes in her signature style were easy flowing and fluid. Capes, kaftans, relaxed, oversized pants and bralettes, were punctuated with her classic draped sari and dainty blouses. Mirror work, ruffled blouses, pre-stitched saris, and beach covers remained constant, continuing the boho-chic vibe.
Geisha By Paras And Shalini
A fashion film set in a supposed old abandoned mansion, Geisha’s presentation was all about amplified drama and elegance. Pantsuits, floral ballgowns, draped saris with frills in a romantic victorian palette comprised their latest offering.
Pankaj And Nidhi
Pankaj and Nidhi’s geometrically crafted collection Kaliedo was presented in an array of rainbow hues like reds, oranges, pinks and ultra-violet blues. The silhouettes include well-constructed mini dresses to kick and tailored co-ord sets. The fabrics infused were an interesting mix of sheer, translucent, breathable and easy to wear. Persuaded by elements of 3D geometry, optical pyramids, Pankaj and Nidhi infused an element of architectural insight to their trademark psychedelic and texture-oriented design ideology.
Shantanu Nikhil
#SNSafari by S&N by Shantanu and Nikhil celebrates one year in the world in the world of contemporary clothing. Inspired by millennials on the move, the collection has an androgynous feel to it. From asymmetric kurtas and cropped jacket shirts to open-cut sherwanis and structured shirts with Nehruvian details, the label offers a unique sartorial choice for young fashion enthusiasts who are looking to evaluate their existing styles.
All Images: FDCI X LFW Team
