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JJ Valaya’s Bridge-to-Luxury Collection Shines

Valaya said that this collection is his homage to the “bygone era” of opulence and global influences…reports Asian Lite News

Veteran fashion designer JJ Valaya gave a luxurious spin to sustainable fashion for his latest collection from his bridge-to-luxury brand JJ Valaya Kapurthala at the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI.

Valaya partnered with R|Elan for the show on the second day of the fashion week, which celebrates sustainability.

The collection, which represented harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation, was made out of eco-friendly fabrics such as R|Elan Green Gold, made out of 100 per cent recycled PET bottles and innovative techniques such as Kooltex, promising style and sustainability.

Valaya’s collection christened “Char” meaning “four” was loosely inspired from the travelogues of Maharaja Jagjit Singh of Kapurthala.

Valaya said that this collection is his homage to the “bygone era” of opulence and global influences.

Talking about his collection, the stalwart, who has been with the industry for over three decades, said: “It is more accessible, lighter, wearable and to get something out which a lot more people can wear, that’s the ethos.”

“It is always a privilege to be a part of a movement… Sustainability is the way to go. I was kind of surprised to see the kind of fabrics I saw because for something that lands up in all the wrong places and to make it into a yarn and spin it into a fabric is so versatile. Frankly, I was so surprised. I did not expect it to be so luxurious.”

On how long it took to make the collection, Valaya said the inspiration was well in place but implementation took place in the “last two months”.

“Getting the fabric, developing new ones, finding the right kind of work. But I am glad we could put it together timely,” he said about the occasion wear collection, featuring sarees, kurta-pyjamas, lehengas, gala bandhs, skirts, kaftaans, free flowing dresses and mesh cover ups with monokinis, all in the shades of beige, bronze, greys, blacks and ivory.

The show too saw a tad bit of star power.

Actress Rasika Dugal, Kubbra Sait and Sushant Divgikar were seen attending Valaya’s show donning his creation.

ALSO READ-Kriti Sanon Embraces ‘Stress-Free’ Ramp Walk

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Sohaya Mishra’s Tea-inspired Collection Wows LFW

Neha was chosen to close the show for Chola. Before she made her way, though, she was joined by her friends Konkona and the designer for a mock tea party on the runway…reports Asian Lite News

Neha Dhupia and Konkona Sen Sharma joined designer Sohaya Mishra for a tea party while showcasing her latest collection in collaboration with Tea Culture of The World on the second day of Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI.

Konkana opened the show that featuring structured silhouettes such as jumpsuits, anti-fit dresses, and pantsuits.

An array of shades, from black and grey to salmon, mauve, pink, olive, and olive green, livened the colour palette of the collection made from linen, cotton, denim, and ikkat.

Though it was a tea party, keeping in mind the collaboration, the music picked for the models to walk on was carefully curated.

Jazz numbers such as ‘Cinnamon Girl’, ‘Upside Down’, ‘I Want to Make Love to You’ and ‘All That Jazz’ played as models and the Bollywood personalities sashayed down the runway.

Neha was chosen to close the show for Chola. Before she made her way, though, she was joined by her friends Konkona and the designer for a mock tea party on the runway.

Talking about her collection, the Chola designer said: “The whole thing was about the culture of tea. When women sit around and talk to each other, it is almost like therapy, where you give the power and opportunity to make each other unapologetic.”

Mishra said Neha and Konkona, both of whom are known in the industry for their strong personalities, “made the show”.

Konkona said she feels good wearing the label, Chola. She revealed that it is one label that she owns some pieces of. She called it “unconventional”.

Neha added that her relationship with the designer goes back by more than 15 years and shared that the first piece Mishra designed for her is with her even today.

“Anything she puts together, there is a lot of clarity and is aesthetic. She’s not out there to prove anything to anyone and I feel like her craft talks. She never gets one stitch or one button wrong,” Neha said.

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Kriti Sanon Embraces ‘Stress-Free’ Ramp Walk

The collection comprised of joggers, bomber jackets and crop tops that blended retro fashion in vibrant colours…reports Asian Lite News

Kriti Sanon, who started her career as a model, said on Friday that she had the most “stress-free” walk at the LFW x FDCI because she got to walk in sneakers.

Sanon was the showstopper at a sportwear brand’s fashion event on Day 3 and made head turn as she strutted flawlessly.

“First, it feels amazing to walk the ramp in sneakers and not heels,” she said. “This is the most stress-free walk I have had on a ramp but other than that I feel amazing. It is such a wonderful collection and I love it.”

The collection comprised of joggers, bomber jackets and crop tops that blended retro fashion in vibrant colours.

Sanon expressed her love for athleisure. She said: “I am personally a lover of athletisure and when it comes with a twist, then it becomes street wear and cool. It is very much my vibe.”

She added: “It was amazing to walk in this dress because it fits me like a glove and I felt like if I should suck my stomach in.”

Before her debut in 2014 with the TIger Shroff-starrer ‘Heropanti’, Kriti was a model, so returning on the runway was like a homecoming for her.

“I have been a model here. It’s always nostalgic to be here. It feels nostalgic to meet my friends whom I worked with when I was a model. It is nostalgic, and fun,” she said.

On the work front, Sanon will be seen on ‘The Crew’, which also stars Kareena Kapoor Khan and Tabu.

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Shanaya Kapoor Stuns as Showstopper for Anamika Khanna

Khanna’s collection, which brought the curtains down on day 3, was in association with Ajio Luxe…reports Asian Lite News

Bollywood actor Sanjay Kapoor’s daughter Shanaya turned showstopper for ace fashion designer Anamika Khanna’s AK-OK Spring Summer ’24 collection at the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI.

Sharing about walking the ramp for Khanna, Shanaya told reporters: “It feels very special. When I got styled for the first time in my life it was an Anamika Khanna outfit and I started with these combat boots and I felt so myself. So, finally walking for her for the AK-OK collection means a lot.”

“The embroidery is inspired by the biker vibe. The hair and make-up has been kept super grungy and carefree. Had a good time,” Shanaya added.

Khanna’s collection, which brought the curtains down on day 3, was in association with Ajio Luxe.

The designer took her inspiration from the intrepid spirit of a nomadic biker from Orissa’s Bonda Tribe. With Bonda colours, motifs and embroideries playing a stunning factor in the collection.

The garments were a collection of jackets, slouchy pants, drapes, and kaftans in whites, ivories, and blacks, expanding over to a range of prints and bolder colours like red and pink.

The designer combined thick thread work embroidery inspired by biker studs to reinvent the idea of urban wear.

Talking about the showstopper outfit, Khanna said: “This was the most fun thing I did in a long time. I mentioned to Shanaya that it’s about somebody from the tribe becoming this biker and going into the city and having fun.”

“This look that she is wearing is actually inspired from the tribe and then the biker element to it which we derived from all the studs that you see.”

ALSO READ-Kalki Koechlin Talks Female Gaze

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Kalki Koechlin Talks Female Gaze

Kalki said: “Of course, and it’s about time and most of the directors I have worked with in the last 6-7 years have been women and it is a different perspective and we have stories to tell.”…reports Asian Lite News

National Award-winning actress Kalki Koechlin revealed how she wants to be remembered 10 years down the line.

Kalki, who turned showstopper for the label Aikeyah at the ongoing Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI on day 3, talked to IANS on the sidelines of the event.

Asked how the actress wants to be remembered 10 years from today, pat came the reply from Kalki, who said: “Relevant”.

In her 15 years long journey in Hindi cinema, Kalki has worked with female directors such as Zoya Akhtar, Anu Menon, Konkona Sen Sharma and Meghana Gulzar.

Does she believe that there is a “female gaze”?

Kalki said: “Of course, and it’s about time and most of the directors I have worked with in the last 6-7 years have been women and it is a different perspective and we have stories to tell.”

The 40-year-old actress, who made her Hindi film debut in the black comedy-drama ‘Dev.D’ in 2009, shared details about her fashion sensibilities.

“I’m really into sustainable clothing in my personal life more. I’d rather spend that extra money in something of quality, and I also love my second-hand vintage upcycled market.”

The actress said she tries to keep it simple.

“I do try to keep it simple in my daily life because I do so much in my work.”

Kalki does not agree with what many feel is that expensive means fashionable.

“I think you can find incredible stuff in second-hand and vintage stores and local markets. But yes there is a price to pay for good quality,” she said.

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Janhvi Advocates for Indian Wear and Sustainable Fashion

Kapoor’s commitment to sustainability was evident as she voiced her appreciation for Kalki’s craftsmanship and the artisans behind their creations…reports Asian Lite News

Renowned Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor graced the ramp as the showstopper for the label Kalki at the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI, showcasing her love for Indian wear and advocating for sustainable fashion.

Expressing her fondness for Indian attire, Kapoor emphasized its simplicity and grace, labeling it as the “most beautiful piece of clothing” one can don. Her sentiments resonated as she elegantly strutted the runway in a fish-cut lehenga adorned with crystals, tassels, and floral motifs, embodying the ethereal essence of the label’s collection titled “Inara.”

In an exclusive interview, Kapoor shared her fashion philosophy, highlighting her preference for style infused with comfort. Despite her celebrity status, she emphasized that one need not splurge on expensive garments to achieve a stylish look, asserting that it’s the art of styling that truly defines fashion.

Kapoor’s commitment to sustainability was evident as she voiced her appreciation for Kalki’s craftsmanship and the artisans behind their creations. She acknowledged the “labour of love” invested by artisans, emphasizing the importance of supporting sustainable practices in the fashion industry.

The actress, known for her versatility on and off the screen, expressed excitement for her upcoming projects, including “Mr & Mrs Mahi” and “Ulajh,” as well as her Telugu debut in the Jr NTR-starrer ‘Devara: Part 1”.

Joining Kapoor on the runway was actor Aditya Roy Kapur, who exuded charm in Kalki’s men’s wear collection. Donning an achakan with crystals paired with well-tailored pants and a shirt, Kapur exemplified the label’s modern Indian aesthetic.

Reflecting on the experience, Kapur expressed delight in walking alongside Kapoor, describing it as a “fun experience” while acknowledging the mesmerizing allure of Kalki’s INARA collection.

As Janhvi Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur added sparkle to Indian wear at the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI, their collaboration with Kalki not only showcased exquisite designs but also advocated for sustainable and stylish fashion choices.

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Ananya Panday Radiates Glamour at LFW

Ananya said: “It feels great. This is the most fun I had walking on a ramp. I felt very easy and edgy walking. It was so much fun.”..reports Asian Lite News

It was all about glamour, fashion and star power at the grand finale of the fiver-day-long Lakme Fashion Week, where Ananya Panday brought the curtains down, as she walked the runway for renowned designer Rahul Mishra.

On Sunday night, in the grand finale of the show, Mishra showcased a range of stunning ensembles from the AFEW collection christened ‘Sculpt’, where he drew his inspiration from the designer’s forever muse nature.

AFEW stands for the four elements — Air, fire, earth, and water.

“This was my show in Bombay after almost 6-7 years, so it was like homecoming… When we look at the whole exercise it was fun even at the studio. Everyone worked day and night for this collection,” Rahul said.

Mishra turned sculptor as he elevated via Aari embroidery, hand sculpting, cutwork and patchwork. His garments took the limelight, but his showstopper Ananya Panday too looked stunning as she walked the ramp, with her parents Chunky Pandey and Bhavna Pandey cheered for her from the front row.

Ananya said: “It feels great. This is the most fun I had walking on a ramp. I felt very easy and edgy walking. It was so much fun.”

For Ananya, Mishra chose a black tube dress with flower patchwork on the side and a drizzle of sparkle. For the make-up, the actress went for a very “sculpted” look with the House Of Lakme. She completed her style with a sleek ponytail.

The actress added: “My favourite thing about Rahul’s work is that it’s inspired by nature. He knows anyone feels beautiful, the way his garments fit our bodies it almost feels it was made for us. I love that you bring awareness while portraying such beautiful collections.”

The grand finale was a star-studded affair as several celebrities such as Vijay Varma, Ali Fazal, Richa Chadha, Orry and Gulshan Grover, among many others were seen sitting on the front row.

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Weaving a Narrative of Tradition and Innovation

Shah is here at the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI to showcase his latest range christened “GULAL”, which he described as a symphony of cultural elegance and modern sophistication…writes Durga Chakravarty

Award-winning textile designer Gaurang Shah is happy with the efforts of Indian personalities such as Vidya Balan, Tabu, and Kirron Kher to name a few, for their contributions to promoting Indian weaves.

He said their endorsement not only showcases the sartorial splendour but also fosters a sense of pride and recognition for skilled artisans.

Talking about Indian celebrities doing their bit to promote Indian styles and weaves, Shah told IANS: “Undoubtedly, Indian celebrities wield significant influence in shaping fashion trends, and many are fervent champions of indigenous styles and weaves such as Vidya Balan, Kirron Kher, Sonam Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Tabu and many more.”

“From donning exquisite Kanjeevarams to embracing the intricate craftsmanship of Phulkari, they effortlessly blend tradition with contemporary allure, amplifying the global appeal of Indian textiles. Their endorsement not only showcases the sartorial splendour of our heritage but also fosters a sense of pride and recognition for our skilled artisans,” he added.

The designer said that they “serve as cultural ambassadors, weaving a narrative of inclusivity and reverence for our rich textile legacy.”

Shah is here at the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI to showcase his latest range christened “GULAL”, which he described as a symphony of cultural elegance and modern sophistication.

The designer, who ventured into costume designing with Nag Ashwin’s 2018 Telugu film ‘Mahanati’ based on the life of actress Savitri, makes no bones about Indian fashion competing at international levels.

“Indian textiles possess an inherent allure, steeped in centuries of tradition and craftsmanship. From the intricate patterns of Banarasi to the delicate elegance of Chanderi, each weave whether it is a saree or ghagra for bridal or casual wear, tells a story of heritage and skill,” he said.

Indian fashion captivates with its vibrant colours, rich textures, and timeless designs, said the designer.

Shah added: “It’s not merely about competing; it’s about celebrating the unique history of our cultural identity, resonating with fashion enthusiasts worldwide. More so, the adaptable talent of our weavers, whom we continue to enrich with newer design ideas and skill sets, which we do with our weaves across India.”

The 2024 edition of LFW is special for Shah, who is making a comeback to the runway after a long break.

The designer said the pandemic was the reason.

“The hiatus from the runway! Well, it’s been quite the journey. You see, in the wake of the pandemic, our beloved looms faced a temporary lull in production, a momentary pause in the rhythmic dance of threads. But fear not, for our passion for weaves and Jamdani burns brighter than ever!” Shah said.

He added: “It took a bit of time to rekindle that vibrant energy, to align every warp and weft just right. And now, oh, our looms hum with renewed vigour, weaving tales of tradition and innovation alike.

Shah wanted to make a “grand re-entrance”, to unveil something fresh and captivating, something that would stir the soul of every fashion aficionado.

“And what better time than Phagun, with its burst of colours and zest for life? GULAL, our latest creation, is just the beginning — a kaleidoscope of hues that will paint the seasons ahead. So, brace yourselves, for our journey through the palette has only just begun!” he added.

Shah Revives Forgotten Textile Artistry

Award-winning textile designer Gaurang Shah honoured the heritage of the nation’s textiles by showcasing “long forgotten” embroideries such as Mochi, Parsi Gara, Petit Point, and Kasuti, among many others on the runway with his latest collection ‘Gulal’.

It was a housefull for Gaurang, who showcased over 40 ensembles comprising of 30 lehengas and 10 sarees, each a testament to the intricate craftsmanship of India’s weaves on day 2 of Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI.

The presentation began with a live music performance by Germany-based medical engineer and singer Hardik Chauhan, who is known to perform Gujarati folk numbers. He was joined by the models, who did garba.

This was followed by a playful tale of Radha and Krishna’s Holi antics by Kathakali dance, which is associated with spirituality.

The collection, which took over a year to create featured ghagras and sarees, which according to the designer highlighted the “long forgotten embroideries like Mochi, Parsi Gara, Petit Point and Kasuti, Phulkari, Kutch and Kashmiri.”

“The dynamic designs line up hinted at the glory of yesteryears, the luxuries that are now rare and opulent,” the designer said.

The 40 exquisite garments consisted of Jamdani, Jacquard, and Dobby, which are the dynamic weaving techniques used to create textiles in hand charkha Khadi, fine cotton, silk matka, and other natural silks.

Shah described the colour palette as “standing for purity, sincerity, and peace and is worn particularly in the Spring season of Phalgun.”

As per the designer: “The weaves are made with virtues of patience and precision that each artisan practices while hand weaving each textile. Their emotions and traits are woven into each line. Each piece of GULAL will be a combination of three different textiles of India.”

Regal Showcase at Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI

It was a complete royal affair as veteran designer Rajesh Pratap Singh showcased his latest collection on the first day of the Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI here on Wednesday.

However, it soon turned into a pet party as two four-legged furry friends joined the models to bring the curtains down on the show.

Before Singh showcased his capsule collection, which was in collaboration with polo-wear brand La Martina, fashion lovers were treated to a glimpse of the ‘sport of the kings’ – a polo match at the Mahalakshmi Race Course.

A carefully picked playlist featuring songs such as ‘Who’s gonna ride your wild horses’, ‘Riders of the storm’, and ‘Horse Soldier’, gelled perfectly with the theme of the show, as the horses and the polo game took the centre stage to be the inspiration behind the collection.

The silhouettes featured in Pratap’s collection included Jodhpuri pants, blazers, polo T-shirts, and shirts, all in the rich hues of royal blue, gold, ivory, and burnt orange, among others.

However, during the end, the show earned several “awes” after a stray dog ran and joined the group of models, who strutted towards the paparazzis to strike a final pose for the collection.

Another stray dog stood right in front of the cameras, while the models posed along with a polo player for the final picture.

All in all, the show was a complete hit — as the collection earned the claps, while the strays stole the limelight.

ALSO READ-Fresh Faces Shine at Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI GenNext Show

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Fresh Faces Shine at Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI GenNext Show

Designer Shimona Agrawal, 28, came next and showcased the collection called ‘Hue’ under her eponymous label, which had been made out of myriad techniques. Inspired by the art and history of the spiritual capital of India, Banaras, ensembles were tastefully made from pure handwoven silk…reports Asian Lite News

The GenNext show at Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI turned out to be a stellar one for the fashion fiesta on its latest edition, as four new faces gave a promising, fresh, and inclusive start on Wednesday.

The five-day fashion celebration commenced on Wednesday and will bring down the curtains on March 17 with its grand finale. Four excellent designers Rohitash Notani, Charmee Ambavat, Kriti Greta Singhee, and Shimona Agrawal gave a creative start to the new edition with their debut collection.

The first to showcase was Kriti Greta Singhee.

Geometric patterns of mathematical art were the theme for designer Kriti Greta Singhee’s collection titled ‘Third Space-Sustainable Future’, which focused on the flow of lines and folds.

The fabrics used for the collection include organic, sustainable, and eco-friendly hand-woven natural silks and cotton silk from Phulia in Bengal.

Talking about her collection, Singhee told reporters here: “I was so excited to showcase as it was a lot of hard work. It feels amazing… My collection is all about textile manipulations and I have used the origami technique.”

Designer Shimona Agrawal, 28, came next and showcased the collection called ‘Hue’ under her eponymous label, which had been made out of myriad techniques. Inspired by the art and history of the spiritual capital of India, Banaras, ensembles were tastefully made from pure handwoven silk.

Agrawal said of her collection: “Hue is a captivating tribute to Benarasi silk but with a twist that it is completely brocade free. The collection is a celebration of the craftsmanship we have in the present and commitment to preserving it in the future.”

Then, there was a collection by the brand The Terra Tribe by 35-year-old Charmee Ambavat. Christened ‘Indigene’, the collection showcased cultural references to indigenous tribes of Africa and the intricately painted mud houses in rural Africa made out of locally manufactured organic cotton made consciously by the makers in India.

Ambavat said: “The collection has taken inspiration from Africa. The primitive and raw nature that you find in Africa… We have tried to keep it as conscious as possible.”

Then came 40-year-old Rohitash Notani, who showcased a collection under his brand Rosani. His collection ‘Anima and Animus’ is a comparison between the conventional masculinity and sensuality that is associated with feminine energy. The collection revolved around office wear and uniform fabrics made out of cotton drill, blended with an array of embroidered materials.

Talking about his collection, Notani, who is an alumnus of the IED Milan, said: “Celebrating the duality that coexists within us. The pluralistic identities. The masculine and the feminine. So, the intention was to take what I grew up knowing.”

The first day, the first show of the fashion celebration was dominated by hues such as black and grey infused with several other colours and textures. The GenNext platform has previously churned out some of the best designers such as Masaba Gupta, Nachiket Barve, and Rahul Mishra.

ALSO READ-Karishma Tanna Steals the Show as Showstopper at LFW

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Karishma Tanna Steals the Show as Showstopper at LFW

Japanese vintage ready-to-wear was showcased by a young designer whose collection mostly featured shades of blue and white…reports Asian Lite News

Actress Karishma Tanna turned showstopper for aspiring designers at the Launchpad segment of the ongoing Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI.

A group of fashion and interior designers took over the stage on Wednesday to showcase their collection, a reimagined version of vintage fashion from the 1960s to the 1980s.

The creation that Karishma donned was by a cub designer named Yash Gala from the Inter National Institute of Fashion Design (INIFD). He shared that he is inspired by strong bold looks and “structured garments.”

While talking about Karishma turning showstopper for newbies, Disha Khosla, style mentor from INIFD said that usually stars say no to them.

To this, Karishma replied: “I know how the dream works and I know what passion they have so I like to encourage each and everybody; and when I got to know that I had to walk for a very talented designer, I was very happy.”

Another aspiring designer flaunted a collection from the 1970s fashion, which features rich art and craft from Jaipur.

Japanese vintage ready-to-wear was showcased by a young designer whose collection mostly featured shades of blue and white.

The fourth aspiring designer said that she drew inspiration from herself and her doodles for the eclectic collection.

Lastly, a collection called ‘Checkmate’ was showcased. The USP of the ensembles was that it was made out of leftover fabric from factories and drew its inspiration from the 1960s.

 Actress Karishma Tanna is not a big fan of make-up nor fancy outfits in real life. She says that she’s completely the opposite of what she is on screen.

Karishma, who turned showstopper for young designers from a design school at the latest edition of Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI, spoke about how she lives her life off-screen.

She told: “You’ll be shocked.. I’m actually the opposite of what I am on screen and in this industry.”

The actress added that she is living “two lives.”

She said: “I have two lives which I live: one is reel and one is real and when I am in my own life I am totally opposite. I am totally de-glam, I like to not wear make-up, I like to wear jhalla clothes.”

The actress added: “When you’re in front of the camera or in fashion business you have to be completely opposite.”

On the work front, Karishma was last seen onscreen in Hansal Mehta’s ‘Scoop’, a series, which also stars Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub and Harman Baweja.

The series followed on Jigna Vora’s biographical memoir ‘Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison.’

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