What a show(stopper)!

Manpriya Singh 

Lakme’s winter/festive extravaganza of the year, like any other fashion week, began with incredibly well-dressed crowd dotting not just the front row, but the one that spilled onto St. Regis and Palladium Mall in Mumbai. Back to the ramp and day one kick-started with Gen Next show, the future designers that we at Lifestyle have already brought you views from on a personal note. 

What, however, does need re-emphasis is Sumiran Kabir Sharma’s label Anaam. Whose debut collection brought the spotlight on the red light district of Kolkata, Songachi. One after the other, the models came, draped in austerity, demanding attention and respect. The sombre was more than offset by Ritu Kumar’s floral fiesta with her spring summer ‘18 collection comprising lacy dresses, tulle skirts and floral prints. The showstopper Disha Patani, in a white corset dress with florals, made everyone yearning for a dress like hers.  

What’s more? Masaba Gupta, known strictly for her quirky prints and prêt line, explored the occasion and bridal-wear with her collection titled Madagascar. Picture the offbeat brides in sari hybrids and her signature pop hues! 

Do you see bling? 

Not that it ever went into hibernation, but the good old bling seems to have been reserved for showstoppers. Those ever in love with sequins, shimmer, mirror-work and all the other forms of cham cham were left happy and smug with not just one but as many as three showstoppers, namely Preity Zinta, Kalki Kochelin and Kiara Advani, in all their shiny festive glory. 

Models…nah, artisans!  

Day 2 too brought in a fair share of refreshing change on the ramp…humane and thought-provoking. The artisans, the people behind any creation and always relegated to the periphery, took to the ramp. Five artisans from Paramparik Karigar walked the ramp to showcase their collection titled Craft is Cool. This collection was made as a dedication to sustainable fashion. Craft is Cool. Indeed!

No showstopper rule broken  

Perhaps, it’s the one highlight of the week. Rahul Mishra breaks his no showstopper rule with Shraddha Kapoor walking the ramp for the celebrated designer. As for the Project Eve collection titled The Bird Song, he stayed true to his signature craftsmanship with beautiful chanderis and maheshwaris forming a significant part of the collection. “Project Eve wants to reach out to the larger audience with amazing price points and, obviously, Bollywood is the strongest face to have,” Mishra said about roping-in a celebrity face, while at the same time not being sure if he would collaborate with a Bollywood star again. Shraddha of course is all smiles, “For a designer, who never keeps a showstopper and if he chooses me, it is an honour.” 

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