Known for her in-depth research and study of different Indian textiles and crafts, Ritu Kumar’s fantastic collection called “The Thunder Mountain and the Curling Vine” was a kaleidoscopic journey of colours, weaves, styles and craft for the audience as they breathlessly watched the ensembles on the ramp.

Inspired by the beauty and majesty of the deep woods and the serene mountains of the Himalayan region, Ritu allowed her creativity to match the glory of nature from these regions.

Using hand-woven back strap loomed fabrics, Bhutanese Tangkhas, prayer flags, kanni weaves, hand spun khadi, woven silks, leather, Lycra jersey and adding the beautiful jamavar motifs of Kashmir; the result was a fascinating line of contemporary fashion with vintage textiles, which bore Ritu’s individualistic style for her prét brand “Label”.

Converting some of the weaves into prints, the fabrics used ranged from silk to woven shawls in rich deep tones that recreated the beauty of the hilly states.

Unfolding the drama of the costumes from the mountain kingdoms, the long-sleeved coat dresses with a mix of prints/embellishments and kurtas with the Himalayan flavour, trousers, leggings, the kira (wrap around skirt from Bhutan), wrap jackets, dresses, kaftans and capes were seen creating unconventional impact on the catwalk.

The three dramatic giant printed and embellished capes were stunners on the ramp when they appeared in quick succession.

The brocade short jacket with sheer sleeves, pencil skirt with belted shawl collar jacket, long slim embroidered skirt with a pure white blouse, very heavy wool midi with contrasting bands and the belted double breasted coat with rust collar, were inspired by the beauty of the hilly heaven.

Cigarette pants with a new version of the biker jacket, the scenic embroidered swing coat, textured woollen creations and the multi-fabric gathered dress were part of the fabulously crafted collection.

The second half devoted to the most luxurious kalidaar kurtas in shades of white, ecru, khaki, beige, mid-brown swirled on the ramp with multiple kalis whirling around the beautiful models wearing the scintillating Reliance Jewels collection of jhumkas, shoulder dusters, kaan phool, chandelier earrings, the visual was glamorous.

Ending the show was the gorgeous Nargis Fakri, star of the latest hit “Madras Café” who glided in displaying a magnificent diamond polki set, Haath Phool and Maang Tikka from the Reliance Jewels collection, in a white fully embellished, layered, floor-length, kalidaar kurta and flowing dupatta.

It was indeed a glorious end to the Indian Textile Day celebrations at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2013 with Padma Shree Ritu Kumar’s sensational collection presented by Reliance Jewels.

Lakmé Fashion Week