Fashion designer Archana Kochhar will be showcasing a collection today, which is inspired by her recent visit to Rajasthan
Rajasthan and Gujarat seem to be the toast of the designers at fashion week this season with several gaining inspiration from the rich cultural history of the states.
ADVERTISEMENT
Designer Archana Kochhar is on the list of designers that include Manish Malhotra and Gaurang Shah. “People here love travelling abroad but India offers such dramatic beauty. I discovered it on one of my recent visits to Rajasthan, and its scenic, magnificent structures have inspired my collection, Chokhi,” says Kochhar.
Kochhar has used a modern interpretation of the Shisha embroidery (mirror work) from Rajasthan (Malhotra used it for his collection too) and the colour palette has been inspired by the region too: “You will see haldi (turmeric), saffron, kesari and burnt maroons mixed together.”
Kochhar has also printed forts on her garments and a few handlebar moustaches as seen on Rajasthani men of particular communities.
The silhouettes are a mix of contemporary and ethnic wear. Watch out for lightweight printed shirt-style kurtas, printed half jackets, saris, lehengas and also printed leggings and patiala salwars.
While we found some of the burnt maroon combinations with golden embroidery and appliqué work a bit jarring, we liked the mirror work cholis paired with voluminous ghagras in solid colours to balance the bling quotient.
Sidelights
Black ‘n’ grey is the way
Even though the festive season is all about vibrancy and bold 'n' bright colours, Day 4 at LFW showcased a range of designs in blacks and greys that were once a complete no-no as an option for festive wear.
All for a Cause
Designers have often supported causes and made a difference socially. One such collaboration was announced at LFW - Fashion Upcycled - an initiative aiming to reuse excess raw materials from fashion designers.
Amongst the many designers who have signed up to support this cause, Anita Dongre, Nishka Lulla and Payal Singhal launched this initiative along with Mana and Suniel Shetty of Save The Children India. The designers showed their support and presented their excess material to the beneficiaries who are supported by the non-profit organization, Save The Children India.
The excess material will be used to make products such as batwas, cushion covers, trays, table runners to name a few. The proceeds from the sale of these products will be used for the upliftment of underprivileged women and children.u00a0