Her 10-year debut at Lakmé Fashion week and it is her first ever digital showcase in collaboration with  FDCI & Lakmé fashion week, inspired by maverick women – unorthodox and fearless. This non-conformist and free-spirited woman and her travels in these uncertain times when travelling is an unsure but most yearned for phenomenon is the inspiration behind the forthcoming collection.

Key Elements

* Surface ornamentation inspired by various cultures and pretty cord embroidery ,  French-knots, boho cross stitch 

 Bold paisley prints and florals are blended with beautiful fresh checks, stripes and dobby dots

Fashion Story

* Silhouettes of Maverick Travel= an amalgamation of free swinging and fluid resort wear, and few sharply constructed but relaxed styles like daring cut out maxi ‘s, boho tiered dresses, lounge wear, midis, co-Ord sets etc. 

 * The colour palette is  a cocktail of bright colours like canary, Prussian blue, mint green along with lilac, powder pink, salmon and of course the perennial favourite of the brand ecru and custard which are always relevant and flattering

* Versatile fluid fabrics like mul, poplin, cotton are the base of the collection

Fashion Story

The collection is season fluid, extremely versatile and consisting of some easy breezy, relaxed but functional and timeless separates for all age demographics which will be a perfect accompaniment to one ‘s wardrobe in the changing world of uncertainty but with a deep hope of better times ahead.

Shruti Sancheti on her Collection

 “The joint Phygital edition is the need of the hour and it is a wonderful platform to connect for both B2B and B2C. The pandemic has changed the world with restrictions and boundaries and there is a lot of yearning for travel and her collection ‘Maverick Travel ‘ is inspired by universal love and desire to travel in a free world and they have come up with a collection that is versatile, season fluid, fuss-free and perfect to move forward from day to night, season to season and continent to continent.“ 

A fashionable melody “Earth Song” , was a creative rhapsody of colors, natural yarns, hand woven fabrics, and a mélange of animal inspired prints that came together in perfect harmony to match the theme of the collection. 

Key Elements

* Use of traditional embroidery like Sujani, Sheesho, Bharat, Rabari, Kawandi quilting and Mashru

* A riot of jungle safari inspired flora and fauna colours and prints were seen for the collection that highlighted the flowing, fluid shapes of the look

* A stylish amalgamation, as denim, handloom, checks, cottons, silk Chanderi and natural linen came together in perfect unison

Fashion Story

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 Old garments ,fabric waste, embroidery, mirror work patches, laces, trims, tassels, shells and beads  recycled and reinvented The earthy wonderland was depicted through  hand stitched Shibori stitch and tie-dye technique along with hand drawn child-like motifs.Payal’s silhouettes offered fun dresses, wrap skirts, tie-up blouses and harem pants that had great mix and match possibilities.

. Payal’s collection provided the perfect ‘head to toe’ fashion solutions with bags, neck pieces, belts, wraps and throws by reinventing vintage dowry bags, crochet suits, scraps of fabrics, beads, trims and even discarded metal stripes.

 Payal Jain on her collection

“Earth Song’ has been an exciting journey of exploration, experimentation, revival and recreating. I have truly enjoyed working with a vast spectrum of colours, textures, weaves and crafts; repurposing garments, recycling trims and accessories, reinterpreting old textiles and reinterpreting embroideries into a whole new collection. Earth Song is a deep message about my love & concern for the fast-vanishing forests and endangered wildlife, and I hope it has reached my audience, clients, friends and buyers. I feel very proud to have been a part of FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week 2021 and look forward to many more”

FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week brought on board India’s lifestyle social commerce platform, Trell, as Official Lifestyle Partner. Besides all shows that will be livestreamed on Trell, for the very first time, a show from the FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week schedule was exclusively showcased on Trell through a collaboration with designer Samant Chauhan.

Key Elements

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* Using cotton and silk weaves by artisans in Bhagalpur, the garments had a luxurious appeal

 * Samant exclusively crafted the mesmerizing prints and embellishments for the ensembles

* Shading , intricate 3D appliqués and foliage embroidery are other key elements

Fashion Story

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Fascinated by the work of William Morris even when Samant Chauhan was a student at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, it was his visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum that further influenced his design ideology and inspired him to establish Morris and Co. Like Morris, Samant has tried to restore prestigious, handmade crafts away from machine made textiles.

 The collection “Strawberry Thief”  was inspired by the iconic works of Morris 

 Samant Chauhan 

 “Trell is a very interesting app in that it has a plethora of creators coming up with interesting content. It was a fruitful collaboration as we were able to reach out to newer audiences who are very fashion conscious and aware.”

The colourful and sustainable collection titled, “The Master’s Words” paid tribute to the late Satya Paul who passed away earlier this year and also launched the revolutionary Carbon zero TENCEL™ fibers.

Key Elements

* There was a riot of colours and abstract patterns for the men and women’s garments with a vibe of the 70’s and 80’s 

 * The Collection made from carbon zero TENCEL™, a sustainable yarn that is entirely biodegradable.In addition to having a higher environmental value, the Carbon zero TENCEL™ fibres feature the functional benefits of standard TENCEL™ fibres including gentleness on the skin, long-lasting softness, silky smoothness, enhanced breathability and colour retention.  These fibres are certified as CarbonNeutral® and Lenzing’s key initiative towards its goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

FASHION STORY

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The show began with the film Search -directed and creatively put together by Rahul Bose. The runway transformed into a theatre where the models got into a bubble of a retro living room  – while some were reading, some were dancing whilst some were transported into a trance-like world.Rajesh Pratap Singh, Creative Director of the Satya Paul label kept the ethos of the Satya Paul style with athleisure, some dance tracks, along with trippy memories and contradicted it by the 70’s and 80’s looks of the collection. Rajesh was also inspired by Satya Paul’s love for calligraphy, which appeared on Mr Paul’s walls along with quotes from luminaries like Rumi and Osho, which were very relevant. Rajesh Pratap Singh has always followed sustainability in his own practice, strived to make the brand more contemporary and also worked towards making it more sustainable not only in terms of production but also by using fibres that are sustainable.  These practices have made the entire collaboration have a deeper and truer meaning.

Avinash Mane, Commercial Director, South Asia, Lenzing Group 

 “We are delighted to engage with like-minded partners, Satya Paul and Rajesh Pratap Singh to introduce the first Indian collection made from Carbon zero TENCEL™ fiber, a revolutionary product that offers an all-new level of eco-friendly selection to consumers with a third-party verifiable label. We are pleased to see these fibers being transformed into an impressive line of outfits by Rajesh Pratap Singh. The last couple of years has made it imperative that each one of us need to evaluate the impact our choices have on the environment. The Indian fashion industry too is embracing sustainability and responding to consumer’s ask for greater transparency. At Lenzing, we believe that together we can pave the way to a greener future for the fashion industry, by embracing the opportunity to fulfill consumers’ demand, who have been longing for fashion items that are good for them and the Earth, too.

 Rajesh Pratap Singh on his Collection

 “This collection is a burst of optimism at a time of global volatility. ‘The Master’s Words’ threads together the past and present in 2021, where we take this journey to the next level by prioritizing sustainable design, as we work with cleaner fabrics that are gentle on the earth. Several of the dresses, trousers, and shirts in this collection are made with Carbon Zero Tencel, a sustainable fiber produced by Lenzing. Entirely biodegradable, it’s only residue is water that regenerates the earth. “

Their latest collection presented by R|Elan™ was all about the theme “Assemble, Disassemble and Reassemble” for a look created from recycled PET materials as a pre-launch initiative at the world class Jio World Convention Centre, in Mumbai’s commercial hub Bandra-Kurla Complex.

Key Elements

•  Use of Craft techniques like patchwork, hand stitching and appliqués
•  Assembled surfaces and graphic patterns cleverly merged with prints and designs that brought a renewed visual delight to techniques of recycling
• A sustainable line that blended tradition with technology and New Age materials in a contemporary, stylish format

Fashion Story

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The designers showcased stylish, modern, ready-to-wear collection of Tunics, pants, wrap skirts and dresses; kimono inspired jackets and cleverly constructed saris. When it came to the colour card, the designing pair selected the neutral classics like black and white, but added haute shades of burgundy, red, wine, coffee and olive. Some of the eye catchers were the simple, black, wrap, long skirt that was ideal for Brunch when teamed with a basic but stylish blouse with minute detailing.

Muse

Dia Mirza, wears a luxurious black abstract patchwork kaftan with stitch detailing and contrasting yoke and cuffs.

David Abraham and Rakesh Thakore on the Collection

 “The process of the breaking down of PET materials to create textiles is a crucial step in the circular journey of responsible fashion production. The disassembling and reassembling of materials have inspired this collection. It takes a look at the traditional methods of recycling and upcycling of textiles that are a part of our common textile heritage.”

Titled – Shillong, her autumn/winter 21 collection was born from moments of reminiscence of faded memories and the bliss in remembrance.

 Fashion Story

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Drawing from the sublimity of the countryside, the collection tells the story of love and longing, set in the sleepy, slow town of Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya in Northeast and the ensembles blending in the backdrop, featured all the earthiness of the rural ambience.

Key Elements

·          Use of  techniques like – broken fauna embroideries, appliqué, Shibori and block prints, 3D appliqués, Hand blocked printing dappled with minute Kantha detailing

·         Punctuated in earthy color tones with an unusual mix, on woven merino checks and stripes, hand woven tussar silk and diaphanous organzas

·         Sheer sleeves and texturing enhanced the delicate nature of the collection

Rina Singh said on her Collection

 “I wanted to present this collection to a larger, bigger audience and bring in more visibility. We shot in Shillong against the backdrop of mountains and sheer nothingness… It makes the diaphanous organza, the heavy structured wool and silk layers – render beautifully in the magnanimity of the Himalayas. The expression of fashion is something that I have learnt and will cherish for many collections to come. I am very excited to have been a part of this edition of FDCI x Lakmé Fashion Week, the new format and collaboration brings bigger and better opportunities for all of us across boundaries.”

When it is a memorable wedding wardrobe that the bride and groom are searching for, the

 “Bani Thani – Bridal Heirlooms” by Monica Shah and Karishma Swali of ‘Jade’ will bring a contemporary line of perfect proportions with traditional handicrafts. 

Key Elements

·         Giving a centre stage focus to the Leheriya – one of Rajasthan’s artisanal heritage the designer duo presented it in its purest form on materials also from that area, as they merged the work of the Leheriya artists with miniature inspirations to present a unique art representing the roots of the region

·         There was a colourful blend of prints and embroidery

Fashion Story

Inspired by 18th century Rajasthani miniature paintings, the designing duo gave a fresh fashion impetus to the art of wedding trousseaux. Working the rich detailing, vibrant colours of miniature art into their couture creations, the designers presented exquisite, handcrafted, heirloom pieces to create a memorable wardrobe. Introducing a men’s wear line, the ‘Jade’ label offered an amazing array of wedding wear along with hand crafted silver accessories

Monica Shah and Karishma Swali of ‘Jade’ on their Collection

 “This collection has been a really special one for us. The core of this collection is a celebration of one’s inner beauty through traditional techniques and crafts. We are so thrilled to have had the opportunity to bring local crafts like Leheriya to a platform like this! It’s always a pleasure collaborating with FDCI x Lakmé Fashion Week. We’re moving into a new world and new way of living, and a phygital edition is something that aligns with this. It also keeps us on our toes in terms of innovation!”.

 After the success of the first NEXA presents The Spotlight last season, FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week announced the winners of the 2nd edition of its one-of-a-kind program. Naushad Ali of Label Naushad Ali and the label SWGT were declared winners from a competitive selection process by a panel of industry experts

                                                         Naushad Ali

The collection “Getting out there – A ride through the dawn” is  a story of a free-spirited girl breaking all ground rules and was all about the back to the future concept.

Key Elements

·         Traditional Indian weaves dramatically re-interpreted with multi-hued, bold splashes of Jamdani for textured cotton, while huge imaginative checks and varying stripes in a palette comprising earth tones

·         The collection has detailing like retro collars and oversized baggy shapes

Fashion Story

It was the past that Naushad Ali visited when he dreamt up his latest collection to inspire him. The many memories of his childhood surfaced to drive his creativity with the sounds, smells and flavours of days gone by. Fabrics were ingenious, organic Kala cotton naturally dyed in earthy tones and then hand woven by weavers in Gujarat. His artisans in Pondicherry beautifully crafted the final collection and completed the memorable looks visualised by the designer.

Naushad Ali on the Collection

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 “My collection this season is hand-woven by the artisans of Kutch using Indigenous, organic Kala Cotton, naturally dyed in the familiar yet rare hues of nature. Every garment is carefully crafted in timeless styles, extending their lifetime. I am extremely excited to be one of the winners for “NEXA presents The Spotlight” and I’m happy to present my showcase virtually at FDCI x Lakmé Fashion Week this October.”

Shweta Gupta

Shweta Gupta for her label SWGT unveiled impeccable garment construction that reflected her thoughts when she grew up in Almora.

 Key Elements

·         Different aspects of  mountains creatively incorporated in the languid, relaxed garments

·         The construction and cuts techniques of the line based on the rugged amazing Himalayan range and that’s why cotton and the sheer magnificent Chanderi fabric from Central India were used

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Fashion Story

It was Shweta and her label SWGT’s fashionable journey that the film revealed with the garments as the stars.

The earthy hues of the ensembles further accentuated the mood of the collection, as shades or rocks, pinecones, acorns peppered the line. Hand woven 100 percent cotton  and silk Chanderi look  moulded to create a heavily detailed asymmetric dress, which focused on drapes, pin tucks, hand crochet and hand weaving

Another luxuriously, fluid and voluminous hand woven, silk, striped Chanderi kaftan was textured with fine pin tucks, hand smocking, but also featured delicate glass beads and hand weaving.

Shweta Gupta, Founder and creative head SWGT

 “I am excited to be a part of “NEXA Presents the Spotlight” showcase at FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week. Original inspiration for the concept comes from my childhood experiences and local oral histories in Almora where I grew up—SWGT reflects the same connection with the mountains, people and its culture. I personify the muse as seeker, wanderer, gatherer and thinker. The film shows the journey of SWGT in finding Euphoria on purpose and resonates with NEXA’s core philosophy of ‘Create’. Inspire’.” – 

 Senior Executive Director, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited

 “At NEXA, we believe in constantly evolving in our journey of providing world class lifestyle experiences and technology to our customers. Through the 2nd edition of ‘NEXA Presents The Spotlight’ we endeavour to bring to the fore

the most creative and innovative minds in the fashion industry, which resonates with our core philosophy of ‘Create. Inspire’.The response we got this season was overwhelming and we firmly believe that going forward, this initiative will become a major platform to launch budding designers in the Fashion Industry. We are delighted for Naushad Ali and Shweta Gupta of Label SWGT for emerging as the winners this season. Both their creative inspirations were about journeys, and the way the showcase has come out, it was truly remarkable & creative, exactly in line with what NEXA stands for, Create.Inspire”.

Jaspreet Chandok – Head, RISE Fashion & Lifestyle

 “We at FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week believe that the new and emerging crop of designers have the power to define the future of fashion. And the second edition of ‘NEXA presents The Spotlight’ showcases our commitment towards providing them a platform to showcase their work. For the first time, we selected two designers as the winners for ‘NEXA Presents The Spotlight’ and are delighted to see what Naushad Ali and SWGT created for their audience.” 

Paper Dolls—an Autumn/Winter ’21 line-up that will take you on a trip to the childlike dreamscapes of beloved storybooks and fantastical tales from the yore.

Key Elements

·         Decorated with Rao’s signature Appliqué work created with contrasting foliage, Paper Dolls will transport you into a wondrous world with its shimmering tactility

·          Bold yet enigmatic colour palette of ebony, lavender, gold, and soft shades of pink,many of the pieces are made with upcycled fabrics

·         The menswear collection showcased streamlined tailoring, vivid patterns, and classic colours like black and white

Fashion Story

 Rao, the designer behind the eponymous label and a mother of two, has reimagined these tales with subliminal lehengas, contemporary saris, show-stopping dresses, and gowns. What’s more? Many of the pieces bring back the lost luster of the most ubiquitous fabric spotted during yesteryear Indian weddings—tissue—minus the fraying.

 Muse Diana Penty

“Each ensemble stands out on its own; it’s a collection that ought to make it to every bride’s wish list! The tissue saris and lehengas, especially, bring back fond memories from family get-togethers and weddings I used to attend as a child.”

Designer Aisha Rao on her Collection

“The refined details of appliqué, the classic silhouettes, and the moody colour scheme are made for the discerning buyers of today. Plus, what makes these pieces even more special, is how they use discarded fabrics to make something that’s one-of-a-kind. Sustainability is IN.”