The 31st edition of Amazon India Fashion Week, organised by The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), took place from March 14-18 in New Delhi. Almost 100 designers gathered for this event, either showcasing their designs on the runway or exhibiting at the venue. New talent & known names presented their Autumn Winter 2018 looks.
Samant Chauhan‘s collection is an ode to the absence of color. Chauhan tells the story of the colorblind painter Jonathan I, who lost the ability to see color after an accident. Black, white and grey are (unsurprisingly) dominant in this collection. The floral embroidery and bold prints spice up the looks giving the edgy, dark styles a chic upgrade.
Shyamal & Bhumika‘s collection ‘A Parisian Symphony’ consists of silk skirts with floral motifs, statement dresses and classic sarees. The color palette includes deep wine, dark shades of green, twilight blue and seductive black. I adore the skirts combined with velvet tops. It fits the autumn theme perfectly.
Namrata Joshipura‘s collection NOW focuses on technology and the human world. Namrata believes that as technology advances it becomes more and more human. Her futuristic designs express this view. This collection is comprised of sharp silhouettes – gowns, jumpsuits and skirts, each with multi layers of embroidery. The color palette is strong. Electric blue, deep magenta, dusty pink, grey and black. Joshipura knows how to put on a show!
Feminism and emancipation are hot topics this year and Gauri & Nainika go along with the spirit of the moment. Their Autumn Winter collection has been designed for women who flourish in their femininity. It includes dramatic textures, full skirts, enormous 3D hand embroidered flowers and delicately pleated tulle. When it comes to femininity one would expect color, but this collection is mostly black & white. This might be a reference to the #metoo movement, for which Hollywood celebrities wore all black at the Golden Globes. Actress Vani Kapoor walked the ramp as the showstopper in an extravagant white ensemble. My favorite of the show is a ball gown with a 3D flower on the bodice combined with a ruffled black & white skirt made from tulle. Red carpet style!
Designer duo Shivan & Narresh combined two themes for their latest collection: the Seychelles and 17th century Edo Art (Japanese history). Millenials on a luxurious getaway are the target group for this collection. It presents key ensembles featuring signature prints against a colour palette of cherry reds, seychelles aqua blue, coco brown and powdery blues. The show included funky eye-wear by Indie Eye.
Sahil Kochhar‘s collection ‘Chitr’ draws its inspiration from the colorful artworks of Ayumi Takahashi. Takahashi is inspired by the emotional reaction people have towards color and Kochhar’s collection aspires to soothe the soul with brilliance of colors. The palette includes black, dark teal, light grey and pale pink with striking florals in mustard, bright red, beige, olive and pink. His collection is an ode to artists around the world, who through their craft inspire people and impact positive change in society.
Kochhar is an incredibly talented designer who has been on my radar from day one. Once again his collection amazes me. His attention to detail reminds me of Rahul Mishra and just like Mishra, Kochhars designs have global appeal. Can’t wait to see more of this designer.
Check out the gallery for more highlights!
Not So Serious by Pallavi Mohan – Defiance by Adarsh Gill
Patine – Nitin Bal Chauhan
Pinnacle by Shruti Sancheti – Vineet Bahl