Krishna Mehta to show Manipuri weaving craft at LFW

The event is scheduled to take place between 23rd-27th August 2013 in Mumbai. The designer will showcase a distinctive fusion line that has been especially crafted by weavers in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, under Krishna’s expert guidance over several months. These garments will be in line with the current design trends but will seamlessly integrate the ethereal identity of Manipur handloom.

Popular for tribal weaves on Loin Loom and cotton and silk saris, Manipur Handloom has rarely been used so comprehensively by any designer in the past. Influences from Myanmar and Bangladesh will also be evident on these garments as Manipur sits comfortably on their borders. These especially crafted clothes have been designed and made from Manipur handloom products and will be will be showcased during Indian Textile Day at Lakmé Fashion Week.

Designer Krishna Mehta, says, “It’s an overwhelming moment for me to bring forth the unique workmanship of these women from Manipur through my designs, with whom I have worked extensively over several months in Imphal. My fusion line has a distinct blend of Manipur’s art and culture and I’m eager to present their amazing work for the world to see.”

Saket Dhankar, Head-Fashion, IMGR, says “With an aim to celebrate and pay a tribute to Indian textiles and crafts, the Indian Textile Day has been a dedicated feature at LFW, season after season. This time we have partnered with Manipur Handlooms for an exclusive show where designer Krishna Mehta will translate the exotic & intricate rich weaves of Imphal into a sophisticated urban line.”

Govindas Konthoujam, Minister Commerce & Industries Veterinary & Animal Husbandry and Sericulture Manipur said, “The State Government of Manipur and Ms. Krishna Mehta, Fashion Designer of great repute have come together to showcase Manipuri handloom fabrics at Lakmé Fashion Week. Her creations using rich Manipuri handloom fabrics are expected to provide an opportunity for the other designers to take notice of the rich cultural heritage of Manipur.”

The Manipur Handloom industry comprises of 4.62 lakh handloom workers* of which almost 100% weavers are women and a large number of weavers are self-earners. In a thriving ecosystem such as this, the local industry is sure to get immense socio-economic boost through this exclusive association with Lakmé Fashion Week. A state with a thriving handloom industry, Manipur has a legacy of unrivalled craftsmanship that will be beautifully brought to life on one of India’s premier fashion weeks.

Lakme Fashion Week