London Fashion Week Goes Desi: Inflatable Dreams, Sequined Sass, and A Hint of Masala

Source- Times of India

Fashion fanatics, get ready for a wild ride! We’re taking you on a whirlwind tour of London Fashion Week , where Indian designers served up a sizzling plate of innovation, heritage, and just a touch of crazy! Forget predictable trends – this year was all about pushing boundaries and rewriting the fashion rulebook.

What is London Fashion Week ?

Considered one of the “Big Four” fashion weeks (alongside New York, Milan, and Paris), London Fashion Week is a semi-annual event showcasing upcoming trends and collections from established and emerging designers. It’s a glamorous melting pot of creativity, attracting fashionistas, celebrities, and industry bigwigs from across the globe.

Who Were the Indian Representatives at London Fashion Week?

This year, London Fashion Week had a serious case of India fever! A talented bunch of Indian designers set the runway ablaze, including:

• Harri: This London-based, Kerala-born designer, Harikrishnan Keezhathil Surendran Pillai , stole the show with his avant-garde collection featuring inflatable latex pants and gravity-defying silhouettes.
• Supriya Lele : Known for her mastery of drapes, Lele’s spring/summer collection was a study in seduction, with wispy chiffon saris and barely-there tanks that left the audience wanting more.

Ashish Gupta : A champion of all things sparkly, Gupta’s collection was a dazzling display of sequined magic. From street-style cool hoodies to red-carpet-worthy gowns, Gupta’s aesthetic was bold, unapologetic, and ready to party.

Highlights of the Event

• Inflatable Dreams: Harri’s show was undoubtedly the talk of the town, with models strutting (or rather, gliding) down the runway in those outrageous inflatable pants. It was a fashion moment that defied expectations and sparked conversations about the future of fashion design.
• Sequined Extravaganza: Ashish Gupta’s runway was a shimmering sea of sequins, proving that sometimes, all you need is a little extra sparkle to make a statement.
• Sustainable Statements: Eco-conscious designers like Nitin Bal Chauhan showcased collections crafted from sustainable materials, proving that fashion can be both stylish and kind to the planet.
• A Touch of Tradition: Designers like Harvinder Kaur and Jigya M didn’t forget their roots, incorporating traditional Indian textiles and techniques into their modern collections.

A Touch of Bollywood Flair

• London Fashion Week isn’t just about high fashion; it’s also a stage for cultural exchange. This year, the rumour mill went into overdrive with whispers of Bollywood royalty gracing the event. While sightings of legendary designer Manish Malhotra scouting inspiration backstage and a certain Bollywood heartthrob (rhymes with ” Hrithik Roshan“) captivating the front row remain unconfirmed, the buzz they generated reflects the undeniable connection between Indian fashion and Bollywood’s larger-than-life persona. This subtle touch of Bollywood glamour added another layer of intrigue to the captivating showcase of Indian design talent.

Dates & Time

London Fashion Week typically takes place twice a year, in February and September. This year’s shows were held from Friday, February 16th to Tuesday, February 20th, 2024.

The Final Cut

London Fashion Week 2024 witnessed a vibrant display of Indian design talent. From inflatable fantasies to sustainable statements, these designers didn’t just showcase their collections – they challenged perceptions and redefined what Indian fashion can be. So, keep your eyes peeled for these rising stars – they’re sure to continue making waves on the global fashion scene!