This year the Fashion Design Council of India celebrated the 10th anniversary of India Couture Week. A decade of couture! 14 couturiers have showcased their haute couture collections during this festive edition, which took place from July 24 – 30, 2017 at the Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi. The gallery includes my favourite runway looks from the first 4 days. Stay tuned for part two!
Anamika Khanna: Happily Ever After
This collection covers the various rituals of the Indian wedding: the welcome lunch, the mehndi, the cocktail, the wedding and the jewellery. Although it includes historical references, the designer also puts focus on the new age bride, who is educated, modern and has a mind of her own.
Rohit Bal
Hand-made pieces decorated with intricate gold embroidery. Regal looks in red, dark blue, black and crisp white. The show also included an appearance by former model & Bollywood star Arjun Rampal.
Manav Gangwani: India @ 70
Manav’s haute couture collection shows the rich heritage of India along with modern edgy elements incorporated in each garment. He drew inspiration from various regions in India like Kashmir, Rajasthan, Kerala and Varanasi.
“In this collection, I have taken inspiration from the rich Indian heritage and have created a collection that brings together interesting elements from every region of India. I have used techniques silhouettes and designs that together create a perfect amalgamation of traditionalism and authenticity”
Reynu Taandon: CYAN – Time to Find the Calm in the Chaos
For this collection Reynu was inspired by the magic and mysticism of a peacock’s blue hues. The colour palette is beyond stunning!
Shyamal & Bhumika: Couture – The Princess’s Soiree + Bridal – The Merchant Princess
Celebrated designer duo Shyamal & Bhumika showcased at India Couture Week for the first time. A story about a princess and her travels from India to Europe. The collection features European details, Victorian inspirations and Baroque decorations together with rich Indian heritage.
Tarun Tahiliani: Tarakanna
For his ready-to-wear bridal collection Tarun was inspired by spanish flamenco dancers and bullfighters. It has a vibrant colour palette including: old rose, maroons, golds, olive, midnight blue, black and ivory. Fun fact – The pieces of this collection can be mixed and matched!
Rahul Mishra: Parizaad
”Shades of Persian, Roman, Byzantine architecture from centuries ago made its inroads into my thought process when I thought of this line”
Anju Modi: Sunehri Kothi (Golden Chalet)
This collection was inspired by the miniature art of 16th century Rajasthan.
It builds on the bravery, honor, chivalry and virtues that Rajputana culture has been known for.
Images – in order of appearance: (top image: Tarun Tahiliani), Anamika Khanna, Rohit Bal, Manav Gangwani, Reynu Taandon, Reynu Taandon, Shyamal & Bhumika, Rahul Mishra, Anju Modi, Anju Modi, Tarun Tahiliani.
