Reliance Industries Ltd.’s R|Elan™ Fashion for Earth in partnership with United Nations in India and United Nations Environment Programme, presented the latest ‘Bandit’ Collection that was a show stopping line of unbelievable creativity.
“The Shourai Collection”, which literally means ‘The Future’ revealed how new designs and materials will be the mainstay of the future – in complete sync with R|Elan being the fabric of the future. Satyajit once again used his trademark tarpaulin and added billboard flex, used canvas and car seat belts to turn them into amazing fashion items.
Color was brought in with great practical use when the duffels, backpacks and cross body bags zipped through the show. A very stylish raincoat was added to complete the look of the colorful abstract printed line that merged cleverly, to show the many paths to sustainability
Exhibiting his unique creative talent, Satyajit unveiled the piece de resistance of his line – a jewelry collection dreamt up from aircraft aluminum. The jewelry line also used unconventional aluminum and copper combining them with rich gold and diamonds.
Satyajit introduced fountain pens created from aircraft aluminum, brass and even artillery shells and wood from handloom spindle.
The film showcases a day in the life of skateboarders – their trials, triumphs and zeal to better their craft. Bandit is a young, urban, street brand and Goa being their home, they aimed to highlight a different and perhaps inconspicuous side of Goa.
6Degree presented the exciting “Colours of India” show with a quartet of very creative designers who unveiled a variety of collections and looks at the FDCI x Lakmé Fashion Week.
A sneak peek by EXECUTIVE EDITOR Tashi Narula
SANJUKTA DUTTA
x
Sanjukta Dutta pays homage to the textiles of Assam Titled “Chiki-Miki” Collection.The meaning of the quaint title “Chiki-Miki” was sparkling and bright, which Sanjukta’s inspiration cleverly adhered to stylishly throughout the collection.Unveiling the traditional culture of Assam, Sanjukta merged it skilfully with contemporary style sensibilities aimed at the 21st century women.
All-black ensembles with gorgeous colorful weaves and dedicated to women of all shapes, sizes and age groups
Intricate detailing on Assamese silk in a beautiful color palette is the highlight
Each ensemble that glided through the show on elegant models was a labour of love and required nearly 45 days to create. The process started from collecting silk from specific Assamese villages, to handcrafting the traditional motifs on it and then finally presenting a memorable creation.
Divya Khosla Kumar
Showstopper Divya Khosla Kumar ended the presentation in a stunning black Mekhla Chador belted sari with a simple strappy choli.
SHIKHA AND SHRISTI
Their latest line for the coming season called “Prakriti” was all about feminine, style that exuded the beauty of fabrics and colors.
Their color story was a scenic look at ivory sea mist, lavender Valerian, sage sea foam green and white in fabrics silk, organza and delicate tulle.
Chitrangada Singh
For a night of festivities for the Cinderella in every woman, the white embroidered gown was just the right option to dance in. Showstopper Chitrangada Singh looked beautiful as she glided on the runway in a sea foam green lehenga, choli and tulle dupatta with the most exquisite silver floral embroidery.
ANNU
Based in the cultural capital of Gujarat, Annu Patel’s label Annu’s Creation unveiled a line of grand wedding wear that will delight brides during the coming season. The focal point of the ensembles was the beautiful motifs featuring a vast selection of flora and fauna. Delicate flowers burst into bloom on the fabrics along with peacocks and elephants as they appeared gracefully on the ensembles.
The highlights were Muquaish work, traditional zardosi, the glitzy zari and the elegant moti embellishments.The label selected velvet as the base of the bridal wear, as the luxurious fabric glittered like royalty, for memorable wedding trousseaux.
Malaika Arora
Showstopper Malaika Arora wore an ornate choli, red lehenga with lavish paisley embroidery and a red tulle dupatta with generous splashes of glitter.
ABSTRACT BY MEGHA JAIN MADAAN
“Facets” was the title of the collection as Megha was inspired by the archaeological exploration of the Greek era and its many facets that pertained to woman – wisdom, strength, beauty and confidence.
The wonderful designs of ancient Greek pottery that revolved around geometrical and floral motifs were turned into the dazzling, embroidery patterns that glittered with sequins and beads.
The shimmering braiding appeared as the main embellishment detailing throughout the show.
Her fabric choice revolved around the finest Kota and zari textiles, while her colour palette flowed from blazing terracotta to muted beige and then onto earthy light olive.
Soha ali khan
Soha Ali Khan, wore a black, will-powered gown with horizontal gold braiding, while the deep olive train added a regal touch.
Her line titled “Sweet Escape” is dedicated to The Unstoppables. Here was a collection that was ideal for a romantic getaway, when it was time for that sweet holiday at peaceful locales. Her feminine mix and match story was on a Blanc canvas, when she revisited Indian crafts for her relaxed line of clothes.
Key Elements
* Highlights were organic stitches, mirror work and beadwork to lend the boho look with the additional synergy of textured fringes
* The fringed New Look belts gave the waistline an emphasis, as well as a feisty touch. In addition, the cut-aways, voluminous sleeves, intricate pin tucks, elastication and gentle ruffles added to the relaxed look of the ensembles
Fashion Story
A fashionable sporty line with pops of colors that creatively looked at Indian handicrafts from Bhuj. Keeping sustainability in the forefront, Rina’s policy of reusing paper, cloth and zero waste practices to reduce any environment abuse, was very much evident in each of the garments.
Rina Dhaka on her collection
“My collection this season at the joint phygital edition of FDCI x Lakmé Fashion Week pays homage to sportsmen and women who have shown their resilience and persevered. The stark palettes of whites neutrals in this collection help give it a new look while Belts, fringes cut away, volume sleeves Pin tucks Elastication and Gentle ruffles form an easy to wear set of ensembles. I am excited to be presenting at this joint fashion week, I appreciate the unity of the two as this was something we all longed for.”
A happy fun filled collection with feminine silhouettes had a dreamlike, ethereal, quality about them.
Key Elements
* The cutout work ,embellishments and feminine shapes on the collection are timeless wardrobe additions
* Working on a base of pure cotton, satin, linen and chiffon, the tribal prints merged creatively with the textures
Fashion Story
Ranna’s color card was an unconventional story, as her inspiration was derived from the vibrant Asian cities and many-painted architecture.
he line with embroidered bodices for white, tiered, tulle skirts also had a feminine gown with cascading embellishments.
The print story moved extensively from Suzani to florals and then onto checks and basic ginghams. But Ranna also added ombré along with modern geometrics and scarf motifs that were beautifully handcrafted by Indian artisans.
The show was a distinctive representation of the coolest styles from best of brands that AJIO has to offer – strengthening the brand’s position of being stylist to the entire nation and house of brands.
A one stop destination for all things fashion, the platform offers one of the widest fashion catalogues, brands from the entire fashion spectrum – exclusive value brands such as TRENDS and MAX Fashion, premium brands such as Marks & Spencer, Forever New, Mother Care, Hamley’s, Nike, Levi’s, Adidas, – to the most coveted luxury brands.
From the most-loved global names such as GAS, Superdry, Steve Madden, Armani Exchange, Dune London, Replay, and coveted luxury brands – Jimmy Choo, Hugo Boss, Coach to homegrown, handcrafted ethnic faves from the most talented craftsmen and artisans all over the country – there’s something for everyone here at the House of Brands, AJIO.
As an exclusive pre-launch initiative, and as a precursor to global scale marquee events, the guests of the show got a sneak-preview and experience of theJio World Convention Centre (JWCC) in Mumbai’s commercial hub Bandra-Kurla Complex.
The Designer duo unveiled their vibrant collection inspired by the quality and ethos of Logitech, an award-winning design company and maker of cloud peripheral products. The collection called “Amalfi” was from the designing duo’s travel memories of the Amalfi Coastline in South Italy. The crisp air, ample lemon trees, flora and the quaintly colored homes by the side of steep cliffs, set Pankaj and Nidhi visualizing a memorable line.
Key Elements
The serene landscapes from Amalfi Coastline in South Italy, were hand painted in abstract colors and forms
Highlights are the cutwork laces and jacquards to lend a luxe element to the the collection in organza, fluid, recycled chiffon and voile
Fashion Story
An easy line of separates that could be mixed and matched – the cropped tops, billowing-sleeved blouses, tiered skirts, mini and maxi dresses in hues of coral pink, terrain orange, sapphire sea blue and leafy green inspired by the pastel, chalky hues of the painted walls and frescos of the lush Italian region.
Specially created for working millennials, the Logitech M350 mouse and K380 keyboard from Logitech shape any space, are highly functional and is perfectly adapted for any digital creation they are working on. Furthermore, the sleeves created by Pankaj and Nidhi will be a value addition that further accentuates the desirability of Logitech’s lifestyle range of products for working professionals who like to own their space in style.
Designers Pankaj & Nidhi on their Collection
“Logitech is a design-led company, focused on innovation and quality and this ethos resonates with us. Creativity requires tools for communication and devices which become seamlessly part of one’s immediate space. We loved the idea of creating a collection for a youthful, curious and culture-valuing customer – someone who is style conscious and cares about the planet and its precious resources.”
Srinivas Rao Vishnubhotla, Country Head, Logitech India
“After the successful first partnership with Lakmé Fashion Week earlier this year, we are excited to be associated with this stellar platform yet again. Our collaboration with Lakmé Fashion Week and designer Pankaj and Nidhi is aimed at weaving deeper connections with young millennials who are looking for simple, minimalistic products that accentuate their lifestyle with the latest in technology and design. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to the youth of this country, who are constantly on the lookout for creative and productive tech solutions with a flair for aesthetics and colors. “
A collection under Anamika’s ready to wear label, AK-OK ( launched in 2019 with a communication catchphrase inspired by the American agency NASA’s ‘A-OK’.
Key Elements
* Bold logos, graphics and prints on kimonos and kaftans, sundresses and skirts
* The collection in Silk, crepe and chiffon had three dimensional appliqué work and accessories like cross body belts in gold
* Breezy silhouettes in prints embellished with ‘AK-OK’ on this line of black ,white and beige
Fashion Story
The show presented by NEXA, started with an act by dancers from Shiamak Davar’s Dance Academy where performers were dressed in coordinates decorated with AK-OK pattern. The womenswear comprised of maxis , sundresses, one-shoulder togas and oversized shirts and menswear comprised of kurtas with lungis, printed shirts with trousers and abstract printed suits.
Mu Muse Shraddha Kapoor wearing a black low-high skirt teamed with black crop top arrived in a car splashed with the AK-OK signature.
Purplle.com the beauty e-commerce platform launches their festive campaign featuring Sara Ali Khan, recreating the ‘Yeh Jaawani Hai Deewani’ magic, voiced by Anushka Manchanda.In their biggest ever beauty sale, for the first time, consumers will get a chance to choose their free gift on every order. A host of beauty products, including, Hair Straighteners, Eye-Shadow Palettes, Primers, Highlighters, Mascaras, and a lot more will be up for grabs. The Purplle Diwali sale will go live from 20th -26th October, setting the tone for this festive season delivering beauty for all at their doorstep.
The campaign film showcases Sara Ali Khan grooving to ‘Yeh Diwali Purplle Wali’ giving the original song a twist, voiced by the singer Anushka Manchanda. Rolled out across Television, Print, Digital, and Social Media channels, the 360-degree campaign will also witness over 3000 influencers grooving to the song and choosing their beauty best this Diwali. Additionally, consumers stand a chance to win the coveted Papa Don’t Preach Lehenga worn by Sara Ali Khan in the campaign film.
Speaking on the campaign, Sara Ali Khan,
says, “Purplle stands for inclusive and accessible beauty for all, and this Diwali they have empowered consumers to choose a free gift of their choice and claim some of the coolest beauty products. Bringing alive the essence of the campaign through a catchy tune, a quirky hook step, and recreating Bollywood’s most iconic song has been exciting. So girls, look no further, here is your chance to add to cart, groove, and light up like a diva, this Purplle Wali Diwali!”
On the launch of the campaign, Nippun Aneja, Chief Business Officer, Purplle.com said,
“We wanted to make this Diwali even more special for our consumers during our biggest sale of the season. This year everyone will have the freedom to choose their very own free Diwali gift every time they shop with us, on every order they place. We want this to truly be a Purplle Wali Diwali, celebrated with Sara Ali Khan, and the best of beauty for all.”
On creating the campaign, Arun Iyer, Founder, and Creative Partner, Spring Marketing Capital said,
“With a strong insight we aimed at making a campaign where the unique proposition of a free Diwali gift on every order, comes to life. We created a fun, quirky, celebration, in the Purplle world, leveraging the brand ethos. With sharp lyrics, we ensured our core communication stands out on a unique, trendy canvas.”
Starting from 20th to 26th October the Purplle Diwali sale will offer discounts on Purplle’s exclusive labels, namely, Purplle, NY Bae, Good Vibes, Alps Goodness, Stay Quirky as well as prominent third-party brands on the website. The festive offer is applicable on all orders above INR 500/-
By Dr Farah Ingale, Director-Internal Medicine, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi ~
The entire first half of this year turned out to be tumultuous for the majority of the Indian population, primarily swept over by the second wave of COVID19. Currently, vaccination numbers have rapidly increased, and COVID19 cases in most parts of the country are seeing a dip.
As the Navratri season is here, people are venturing out to enjoy themselves after being locked away for more than a year. But there is a constant worry about inviting people home or celebrating the festival in a crowded setting. The famous English tune ‘No place like home for the holidays’ seems more relevant today than ever before, as we navigate celebrations in the COVID19 era.
Most experts across the country have insisted that staying home is the safest option. After months of isolation, economic anxiety, and pandemic fatigue, it is entirely understandable that people are yearning to see their family members and meet with friends, especially during the festivities.
However, we must be conscious of our reality. Large parties/gatherings, brushing off masks, and physical distancing can have serious consequences – the impact of which will be felt beyond your circle. The good news is, with some modifications, you can still make the most out of your favourite time of the year. Festivals bring hope and light, and we must hold onto this meaning if we cannot celebrate them in the way we have in the past.
Here are the government guidelines to keep in mind for ensuring people’s safety while celebrating the victory for the greater good.
The Maha government has put a stop to Garba, Dandiya and other Navratri celebrations in a public setting
The governing body has urged community pandals to promote online darshans and limit the entry of people to five at a time
Processions, food and beverages are prohibited in the pandals, thus ensuring that everyone is masked-up
The governing officials have also asked people to give more importance to health awareness camps, blood donation and vaccination camps.
GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW SHOULD YOU HAVE CELEBRATIONS AT HOME:
Have online darshans with family during aarti or keep gatherings small and short
Bring home eco-friendly idols or those made of metal to avoid going outside for immersion
Ventilate the rooms or host the event in the terrace/balcony for natural ventilation
Help your guests follow COVID19 appropriate measures – provide masks, alcohol-based hand sanitisers, soap & water, tissues and closed-lid bins
Follow guidance issued by local public health authorities before you plan a gathering
IF YOU PLAN TO GO OUT, HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO FOLLOW TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INFECTIONS, INCLUDING CORONAVIRUS.
¾ Prevent crowds and celebrate festivals with all precautions
¾ Wear a mask at all times and maintain physical distancing of six feet or two meters
¾ Sanitise your hands frequently (for at least 20 seconds)
¾ Go out with only your social bubble
¾ Do not spit
¾ If you get stuck in a crowd by chance, make sure you are wearing a mask and avoiding face-to-face contact
¾ Wash your clothes with detergent after coming back home and take a hot water bath
¾ Experts suggest that those with respiratory concerns or a compromised immune system must refrain from going out at any cost
¾ Consult a doctor without delay if you notice any symptoms after returning home
THIS FESTIVE SEASON COULD BE CELEBRATED DIFFERENTLY LIKE THIS:
Be there for each other. A virtual call or small gathering with distancing can be done. Act with empathy
Gifts can be a way to share the love with family and friends
Be aware of overindulging – it’s essential to keep an eye on what you’re drinking and eating
Celebrating with children – this may be a time your children get together with cousins or their friends. You can keep them connected through video calls so they feel included. Spend more time and indulge in some fun activities with them
Maintain traditions – you could try to stick to the rules. Whether it’s making a particular meal or decorating your home on a specific day, by maintaining these, you can create a sense of normality
We can’t become complacent and let our guards down completely yet. It is crucial that we’re conscious until the maximum population gets fully vaccinated or we reach herd immunity. Until then, we can continue following our traditions and enjoy ourselves with family & friends while observing COVID-appropriate behaviour.
‘Bylanes – Crafting the New Normal’ was RISE Worldwide’s initiative to capture the current state of business for the artisan clusters in the country since a lot has changed over the years, especially in the past 2 years due to the pandemic. This documentary explores the way craftspeople are adapting to technology and digitisation be it through using online tools for training, selling or marketing; how the youth are looking at craft through a new lens and growing into micro-entrepreneurs. Featured were the craft hubs of Chanderi, Srinagar and Kutch but truly it was a mirror to India’s hands that created magic across the length and breadth of the country.
The internet has reached clusters way before the pandemic and organisations like DEF – Digital Empowerment Foundation, Okhai, Shrujan and many more have been working with artisans using digital tools to facilitate the process of design, production and marketing. However, the pandemic accelerated the use of the internet, smartphones and social media where the artisans have started looking at these tools as essential ways of working.
The documentary, “Bylanes – Crafting the New Normal” was an informative and touching look at India’s artisans, crafts persons, weavers and printers whose livelihood for generations depended on their skills. The interviews with award winning embroiderers, weavers, tailors and printers from all over India, revealed that the crafts business is chaotic and needs to be highlighted. The film made very interesting viewing as their business was affected adversely for the past three years and more so during the Corona-19 lockdown and how they were coping with these problems.
The documentary showed how crafts persons in India were eager to upgrade their skills with technology.
