Manish Malhotra opens LFW with festive/pre-bridal line

Dozens of white and orange lanterns hung from the ceiling, which lit up when the show began. To add drama to the setting, pairs of models walked down the ramp separated by a white curtain of fabric strands. It was a time to celebrate with lights, cameras and action.

Highlighting the festivities of India, Manish’s collection called “Reflections” was a stunning offering, which had gorgeous synergy with Indian traditions, cultures, rituals and vibrant colour spectrum for the fusion line.

The fabulous hues of Rajasthan and Kutch came alive on the runway as models swirled around wearing creations in rainbow tones of deep green, dark beige, tan, burgundy, shocking pink, red, navy, and mustard dappled with mirror work and interesting colour blocking.

Using regal textured silks embellished with thread and exclusively created zari work from Kashmir; the collection was an intense melangé of youthful vigour and timeless touches. Experimenting with silhouettes, Manish showcased the stylish ghagra-pant – a fusion of the Sharara and classic pant, which will give some strong alternatives to lehengas. Another interesting innovation was the Koti (bolero) top reinvented from the Rajasthan Koti, which can be teamed with saris or ghagras.

The fabric selection by Manish was varied with tulle, chiffon, georgette, pure/raw silk, velvet, textured fabrics mixed and matched or contrasted perfectly, to create a great fashion statement.

Opening the show a pair of sheer kurtas with mirror work on the sleeves teamed with the flared ghagra/pants, Manish revealed his control over the embellishments, which were restricted to intelligent placements. Glitter and resham work along with hints of zari created a melodious symphony of fashion. Necklines were very sexy and seductive as they plunged in the front into daring “V” or at the back, often tied with tantalizing tassels.

Appliqué was brought in tonal colours for sleeves, while the luxurious layered flared ghagra-pants had comfortable side pockets. Asymmetric covers, diagonal colour blocking for kurtas with contrast edged side slits, tulle lehenga-saris with velvet cholis, shocking pink embroidered flared pants with silk shirts or velvet blouses and the final heavily embellished Raja coats over black flared pants created a breathtaking impact on the ramp.

Men’s wear was elegant in style with colour blocking playing a major role for two-tone kurtas, some with stripes as detailing on cuffs and down the front but teamed with wide salwars, dhotis or dhoti pants. Sherwanis appeared with narrow trousers, while bundies in varied colour contrasts over kurtas were masculine in style and finish. Velvet detailing appeared at times on hemlines, yokes, shoulders and cuffs to add a touch of excitement to the predominantly ethnic line.

When it comes to a collection which offers numerous alternatives to the adventurous bride and groom who long for that unconventional look during the wedding festivities; it will have to be “Reflections” from Manish Malhotra that will make them the cynosure of all eyes.

Lakmé Fashion Week