ANJU MODI
Exhibiting the contemporary grandeur that takes inspiration from India’s cultures and heritage, the 25 years old label has evolved to become the most revered and coveted designer brand. The Anju Modi label has always emphasised and kept traditional Indian textiles at the forefront, and this collection is inspired by the swadeshi movement. The raw, rough, rugged, fabric drawn out of charkhas which made a statement of rejection for all the foreign goods, was a symbol of independency.
“The colours in my collection would predominantly follow an organic palette and hues of indigo to highlight the mood of that period,” said Modi. The key elements of striped and checkered patterns with slubed yarns having an aged and faded feel, and gauzy texture will narrate these more nuanced emotions.
DHRUV KAPOOR
A combination of misfits and stereotypes, the collection mixes multiple genres, cultures and traditions giving it a contemporary twist. The SS'18 collection portrays a clever mix of details blending techniques from tribal patchwork to elements from the Geisha costume, backed by functionality. The New Mindset, full of bright young things — wishing to overthrow the establishment with their alternative vision of the world attempting to create alternative scenes. Each look retains the purpose to inspire or provoke, engage or enrage and to share the common aim of creating new landscapes fuelled by simple desires. The lengths are fairly long retaining a DIY concept making the pieces versatile that can be worn in more than one way. Eclectic pairing of varied elements from vintage florals to fiery stripes and waxed Nappa, makes it appropriate for multiple stereotypes and age brackets.
PAYAl JAIN
Forbidden love – The collection is an ode to Frida. Her vibrant usage of color, vivid interpretation of emotions, stark expression of pain, unfulfilled romance; physical and emotional trauma touches the deepest core of one’s heart. I feel like I have been drawn into the love, life and struggles of Frida, as she lived half a century ago,” said Payal Jain.
The soul of this collection lies in its random, unexpected, bohemian aesthetic. “I have allowed myself to wander wherever my imagination took me. I cannot define specific colors, silhouettes, fabrics, embroideries, as I have not followed any of those norms or direction. This season’s look is an eclectic blend of organic fabrics, vivid colors, eccentric combinations and warm details, bold checks, vibrant prints and experimental treatments, all of which co-exist in complete harmony.” added Jain. “This has been an inward journey, deep into my heart, where I have revisited my most intense emotions that normally lie buried in everyday life.”
CHARU PARASHAR
The designer presents her SS'18 collection Immortelle. She derives the inspiration from the Victorian glasshouse through its lush flora and fauna, and the undying spirit of a woman. This collection signifies the beautiful nature captured inside a Victorian glasshouse which is depicted in her signature prints and her love for ancient Indian craft keenly shows in the meticulously embellished ensembles.
There is a strong play of flora and fauna used on the garments. Rich georgettes silk chiffons tulle create a whimsical fantasy. Speaking about the collection, Charu Parashar said, “My SS'18 collection derives inspiration from a victorian glasshouse. Titled Immortelle which is a French flower, this collection is rich in floral prints. The collection exudes beauty and the undying spirit of the woman of today, who is confident, bold yet rooted.”
SHIVAN AND NARRESH
TThe elaborate work of genius Japanese contemporary photographer, Nobuyoshi Araki and his provocative imagery underlining the notion of human desire serve as the compelling starting point for the new Shivan and Narresh series. The collection embraces and interprets Araki's affinity for lush flower arrangements via prints boasting of forest sights, lined with vibrant flora brought together by a palette steeped in the colours of Japan. The fabrics of the season are finished with luxurious Italian Crepe Jersey and thick knits with rich botanical prints and lustrous embellishments. Detailed Skein motifs flirting with crystals lend a new dimension to the abstraction, making the collection a luxurious addition to one's destination wedding wardrobe.
SHYMA SHETTY
The collection is influenced by the socio-economic and political ambience of our times. Fashion is informed by our emotional response to the environment, as we walk steadily forward to a future that we choose; a future of our making. In this constantly connected world, we are exposed to stories of unimaginable horror, and also those of unconditional love. There is crime and suffering and then there are heroes worth celebrating. The ethos of the collection is essentially about sensitising the desensitised. Celebrating our wins and acknowledging our losses; speaking up and stepping forward,” said Shyma Shetty.
SOlTEE BY SUlAKSHNA MONGA
Comfort dressing is redefined for the SS'18 collection. Relaxed casuals imbued with a formal edge as flowing lines and textile textures add softness to the structured shapes. The techniques are indigenous with a modern treatment given to the garments. Colour palette flows from ivory to tones of beige to ink blue. The clothes are a balance between strength and softness of nature and its objects. The collection is for the woman who is industrious but holds a touch of uncomplicated sweetness in her heart, enjoying the variety of things nature has to offer.