Chivas Fashion Tour
Oct-Nov, 2007
The First Chivas Fashion Tour begins on October 5, 2007
Travels to Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Delhi and Dubai this year with 12 leading designers
The world’s leading premium brand Chivas Regal brings together 12 of India’s leading designers for the first Chivas Fashion Tour beginning October 5th in Mumbai. The tour will travel to four more cities and end on November 23rd in Dubai. Designers who will feature in this edition of the Chivas Fashion Tour are Ashish Soni, CUE- Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna, Malini Ramani, Manish Arora, Narendra Kumar, Neeta Lulla, Raghavendra Rathore, Rocky S, Shantanu & Nikhil, Tarun Tahiliani, Vikram Phadnis and Wendell Rodricks.
Chivas is a global premium lifestyle brand, and its association with fashion in India will be mutually beneficial. Designers will have an opportunity to touch consumers across key cities in the country and overseas’. Chivas in Fashion has in the last six months gained momentum with initiatives at the India Fashion Week, and support to designers at the New York Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week.
October 5, 6, 7 - Mumbai
October 26, 27 - Kolkata
November 2, 3, 4 - New Delhi
November 7, 8 - Bangalore
November 22, 23 - Dubai
The show in Mumbai will feature Tarun Tahilini, Malini Ramini, Wendell Rodriguez, Ashish Soni (who has just returned from New York fashion week), Rocky S, Narendra Kumar, CUE, Raghuvendra Rathore, Vikram Pahdnis, Shantanu – Nikhil and Neeta Lulla.
Chivas is an uber chic global brand that evokes the most passionate sensibilities. The first Chivas Tour advertising campaign is a stylish combination of illustration and image shot by ace photographer Jatin Kampani. With India’s finest designers participating on invitation, top models, and only the best in sound, light, set design, the Chivas Fashion Tour promises to be ‘the’ fashion event every year. The shows are choreographed by Alison Kanuga and event managed by Showhouse.
Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna- CUE
The year 1998 saw the launch of ‘CUE’ in Delhi which specialized in women’s western wear and men’s formal wear. Since then, Cue & H2O have dressed various leading personalities. A favored brand of most celebrities, Cue at its inception filled the gap created by the then increasing demand for chic men’s and women’s wear in an otherwise ethnic filled fashion market.Cue and H20 have participated in eight Fashion Weeks. Since the last two fashion weeks Cue and H20 have seen some major achievements. Apart from doing the finale collection in the India Fashion Week they have also been voted as the best menswear designers of the year 2005-2006. CUE’s last collection ‘Light Fantastique’ was about the exploration of the sheeted and sequined possibilities of urban and chic evening wear. Metallic colors along with black, cinnamon and beige drafted aesthetically in fabrics like sand washed satin, polypropylene printed linens, see through georgettes and brushed woolens. The collection varied from engineered trousers to draped dresses. From flared pants to a-line hang ons. CUE & H2O are now available at five stand alone stores in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Kolkata, apart from retailing in (Sun Motoyama, Saaya)Japan, (Sanskriti) Hong Kong, (Flower for you) Germany, (Indiva )Canada, (Home Store)Turkey,Our Stores:Delhi- 14Golflinks, F6 Cresent Mall Mumbai-7 Vaswani House, Colaba Kolkata- 85B Lansdowne, Sarat Bose Road Bangalore- 14 Vittal Malaya Road
Light Fantastique- CUE
This collection has been inspired from architectural lines and 60’s stylized wallpaper. An array of geometrics, sharp cuts and metallic sheen live in the Light Fantastique collection. And to make it even more unique, the muted shimmer is juxtaposed with the use of stones.
The forms are experimental. Boxy jackets , peg skirts, kimono sleeves, skinny trousers, wallpaper stockings, knee skimming dresses, embroidery veiled with tulle, sheeted fastenings which emphasize the very high waist are among the many elements that Light Fantastique presents.
Malini Ramani
What is effervescence without a spot of funk and what is Malini Ramani without a large measure of both? Meet the designer who dares to put her joie de vivre firmly on the style radar. Fashion's very own enfant terrible Malini Ramani has always defied rules to create with the courage of conviction – the conviction to follow the dictates of her heart. A quintessential rebel without a pause, for Malini the endeavour is to constantly push the envelope by breaking away from the obvious and adding a dash of cheer to the mundane. Little wonder then that her ensembles are always original, bursting with zest in a happy medley of colours, cuts and cascades of shimmer.Born in New York and deposited in Sanawar in India at the age of 11, Malini's life has always traversed an eclectic path with constant hyperbole! Not one to be confined by disciplinarian authorities for too long, she ran away from school a few years hence. Destination New York - to study Fashion Merchandising at FIT and back to India in 1990. An era when the country was witnessing a revival of the youth and Malini plunged headlong in the moment to savour it to the fullest. Thus began a bohemian pursuit of creativity in every possible sphere. And every experience has left an indelible stamp on Malini's style evolution, be it stints with the radio and television, trotting on the ramp, managing nightclubs, penning gossip columns, relationships or spirituality.Fashion happened to Malini quite by accident when life was pelting at its own fierce pace. Not one to put in an ineffectual performance she gave wings to her imagination and debuted at the first ever IFW in 2000. She scorched the ramp for a fabulous ovation with clothes that spelt oomph and were replete with high-octane glamour. Indian elements were fused seamlessly into western styling. Sharp contouring combined with flatteringly feminine silhouettes and plenty of winking sequins. Malini - the “INDIVA” of Indian design was born. And so was her design anthology - Rock Star Meets Indian Princess! Years later, Malini continues to translate her distinctive aplomb into resortwear and prêt lines with an unwavering philosophy of never creating what she personally would not wear. The constant trademarks of buoyant colours that serenade the sun, sea and the sand, necklines that dare the décolleté, provocative fits that accentuate curves, generous smattering of sequins, all combine in a heady cocktail to raise the spirits and declare: meek hearted stay away and the true INDIVA step forward! The ‘Malini Ramani’ label is currently retailed from her four flagship stores in New Delhi, Goa, Bali, Phuket and Monte Carlo, and also has presence all over the country through leading stores like Ensemble in Mumbai, Ogaan in New Delhi, Kimaya and Sagar in Mumbai, Sosas in Goa and Evolutione in Chennai and Bangalore. Internationally the label is available at Kimaya Dubai, Sanskrit Hong Kong, Venus Monte Carlo, Indomix New York and Khazana Moscow.
Spa Life...Malini Ramani - Malini Ramani invites you to a wonderful day at the spa.
This year for the Chivas fashion tour Malini has created a whole look for an ideal day at the spa. It begins with: Sunrise..this includes yoga wear , satin bathrobes and kaftans.Next is Brunch…fun flirty bikini's and wrap dresses in fun pop colours with lotus motifs. Sunset at the spa has the colours of the setting sun..burgundy and red in beautiful kaftans with wooden embroideries.Evening…glamourous sparkling outfits made with organic embroideries such as grass. A perfect way to end a perfect day; pampering ones’ soul.
Narendra Kumar
Narendra Kumar (Nari) was part of the first - ever graduating class from National Institute of Fashion Technology (1990) while it was still being run in conjunction with FIT, New York and Trent Polytechnic, UK. After graduating NK worked with some of India’s leading designers and embroiders for several years. As one of the first employees of ELLE magazine in India as the Founding Fashion Editor in 1996, Narendra Kumar Ahmed was intrinsically involved in the conceptualisation of the Indian edition of the magazine, as well it’s the adaptation and customisation for the Indian market. The prevailing disorganisation of the nascent fashion industry meant that Narendra was responsible for introducing concepts such as seasonal clothing, catwalk reports and trends, as well as bringing together designers and the entire ready-to-wear industry for the first time in India. Simultaneously, Narendra was also a faculty member of National Institute of Fashion Technology, Mumbai, lecturing advance level students on various aspects of fashion. With the expertise and understanding of the fashion business acquired through his vast experience of working in different areas of fashion, Narendra launched his signature label ‘Narendra Kumar’ in 2002. The NK line of for both men and women is based on modern cuts and silhouettes but integrates the luxurious aspects of specially woven Indian fabrics and hand crafted detailing to maintain a couture feel to the line. In addition NK’s company, Arenah Design Studio, undertakes various corporate identity clothing projects for international companies such as Marriott Group of Hotel, Taj Group of Hotels, HSBC bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Unilever etc. The company works with some of India’s leading textile manufacturers in creating fashion brands and imaging the brands for relevance to the Indian market. Having begun participating at the Lakme India Fashion Week in 2004, Narendra has been a recipient of several awards such as: MTV Style Awards “Breakthrough designer of the Year (2004), MTV Style Awards “Designer of the Year” (2005), MTV Style Awards “Designer of the Year” (2006) and Kingfisher Fashion Awards “Contribution to the Indian Fashion Industry (2006) Narendra Kumar Ahmed retails his men’s and women line through: 3 flagship stores in India, Mumbai(at Courtyard),Delhi (Square 1), Gurgaon (Galaxy Towers). The label is also available at select boutiques in the United States, Canada, Dubai and Hong Kong.
Red Carpet- Narendra Kumar
Narendra Kumar introduces a new edge to his clothing. The collection called "red carpet" is a take on modern urban clothing for the celebrity set. With hints of the 60's, shorter lengths and a sophisticated colour palette interspersed with bolts of colour pointing to a new direction in hip, young clothing to get the shine into your lifestyle, all screaming sexy and elegant. The collection comprises of mostly dresses in silks and brocades periodically worn with jackets for the sharply tailored appearance. The menswear is naturally well cut formal clothing but with a sporty edge.
Ashish Soni
Ashish was the first Indian designer to be invited to present a runway show at the Olympus Fashion Week, New York. At his debut show in September 2005, he was hailed as “one of New York’s new discoveries” by international herald tribune’s Suzy Menkes.Ashish has carved out a distinctly original niche with a sharply refined and deceptively simple sense of aesthetic that is a product of a childhood spent in Africa governed by an Indian upbringing. Ashish continues to show during fashion week in New York and he also exhibits at London Fashion Week and Tranoi in Paris. The label is currently stocked at prestigious stores like Beams in Japan, Penelope in Italy, Tsum in Russia and Villa Moda in Kuwait.Hand crafted skills have always been a strong inspiration for Ashish, which explains his propensity for subtly twisting proportions and inventing new stitching and embellishment techniques , which is further recognized as one of the labels strongest identities today . His clothes are neither ready to wear nor couture but are a more youthful interpretation of today’s strato luxury masstige.
Game On- Ashish N Soni
In the ever fickle fashion industry, forget trends for a moment, this season is not about the 60s, 70s and 80s but is about getting your decades all mixed up. It’s the new way to look now in clothes which are fizzing with tomorrow ness. Easy clothes that make you feel free, relaxed and definitely away from the daily grind. The deepest direction of all, however, maybe so a perfect excuse, then, to indulge in the light, loose pretty clothes, created expressly for whiling away long hot summers in clothing which is, ultimately meant to be worn.Without doubt, past references are an inspirational must but the challenge is to evolve these into excitingly fresh seasonal statements. For summer 08, the designer takes classic sportswear silhouettes and details and transforms them into ultra feminine &, quite often, provocative styles. In delicious contrast to the season’s bold yet minimalist stance, we, this season are following a new youthful direction. Next summer we see women becoming decidedly more playful and charmingly child like. Silhouettes reflect this diversity moving between lean and boyish simplicity. Sportswear reinvents itself and functionality translates into clothes to have fun in. At the same time, he captures the ease and comfort normally associated with contemporary active wear. Rich and luxurious embroideries done on various jersey pieces are juxtaposed with a new volume that emphasizes the female form. Sexed up sports, the sporty past meets the sexy future, sexily cut away details, graphic number embroideries, all over yoga prints, twisted satin twill tapes and embroidered springs add an ingenious twist to the collection. The designer’s free reign to interpret the form and function this season ….The mini dress, kurta tunics, the summer coat, dropped waist tennis dresses, hour glass slim trousers, the tank shift, hand crafted jodhpurs, uniquely decorated track jacket are some of the must haves for this season. The mostly crisp white collection is interspersed with somber color palette of bubblegum pink, powder blue, French vanilla cream, dusty overtones of grey and colored heathers add a refreshing flavor to the collection.There is certain appreciation of the beauty of plainness in smooth compact lycra jerseys enzyme washed which lend themselves wonderfully to the fluid draped pieces, crisp cottons, mercerized dobbies, twill gabardines and viscose jerseys finding more sinuous representation this time round.
Neeta Lulla
She plays with colours as effortlessly as the rainbow plays with sunlight on a rainy day. From the lily-white salwaar-kameez of Sridevi in Chandni, the shimmering mirror worked chaniya choli of Aishwarya Rai in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam; the simplicity of Taal, to the vibrant richness of Devdas. Neeta Lulla has simply done it all.In 19 glorious years, Neeta has designed costumes for over 300 Indian movies and is one of the leading fashion designers in India. Neeta also heads a firm called NSL Fashions Pvt. Ltd. that deals with bridals and trousseau packages.
She has been a visiting lecturer in Fashion Co-ordination at SNDT University since 1987. The subject focuses on the use of the right colour sense to give co-ordination, accessories, personal grooming and make-up. She is also affiliated to Hamstech Institute in Hyderabad in an advisory capacity. Yash Chopra’s Lamhe pushed Neeta Lulla into the limelight. “The best moment of my life was when I bagged the National Award for Sridevi’s clothes in Lamhe. When I got the news I was too stunned to react,” she says excitedly. Soon she became the most sought after designer in the film industry. Other notable projects like Darr, Chandni, Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke, Pardes, Mission Kashmir and others followed. Her latest ventures include Hollywood movies such as “Bride and Prejudice” by Gurinder Chaddha and “One Night with a King”, a Gen8 Entertainment production. Neeta says that several factors need to be taken into consideration while designing a star in the film. The story, the comfort value of the artiste, whether a scene will be shot indoors or outdoors all are crucial in the designing stage. “The attire should have appeal not only to the director and the artiste but also be in sync with the background and set.”It is because of her humble yet confident approach she has earned the respect and clientele of many Bollywood beauties such as Sridevi, Aishwarya Rai, Juhi Chawla, Ameesha Patel, Kareena Kapoor, Lara Dutta, Sushmita Sen just to name a few. Accolades and honours for her craft include – The Presidents Award for Lamhe; Bollywood Award (New York) for Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam; a Screen-Videocon Award, an IIFA (London) for Taal, a Screen-Videocon Award, a Bollywood Fashion award, the President’s award and an IIFA award for ‘Devdas’, an epic film which was showcased last year at the Cannes film festival. Her undying love for her work and her immense creativity is a motivating factor for many aspiring designers. For her designing is not merely a profession but a fanatical passion. She is never too tired to work.. and a good day is one in which she puts in 24 hours of work! She is undoubtedly the ‘Czarina of Indian Fashion’ and set to take on the world.
Neeta Lulla
Riffing in a straightforward way on the treads of tradition and the flavor of fusion theme that she'd more opaquely alluded to in her FALL-WINTER 2007 Couture show, NEETA LULLA will send out her most concise and focused haute couture collections. All it takes, according to her vision, is to bring through, the essence of two different cultures, creating magic with fabric.The collections will witness a combination of drapes and textures, embellished with exclusively elaborate lace and stones, nattily used to create a dramatic effect. The traditional collection will revolve around deep hues of our soil and more traditional colors like turquoise, fuchsia pink and peacock green. In complete contradiction to the bright regalia showcased, the fusion collection with silhouettes of the west will present more frozen colors. This collection crystallizes the essence of femininity with structured as well as unstructured silhouettes.
Raghuvendra Rathore
Born and brought up in the epicenter of heritage and tradition in the ancient city of Jodhpur, designer Raghavendra Rathore knows only too well the value of ‘Brand India’. His traditional upbringing and training of his craft at the Parsons School of Design in New York gave him the international edge, the experience and the insight to create the right mix of aesthetics, craft and heritage in the products that he designs that work globally. The experience of living in Manhattan, while studying and researching Design was more than a dictionary of ideas. Re-calibrating to the American sensibilities and esthetics was a challenge for a person from a remote town of Jodhpur in Rajasthan. Donna Karen hired him from a graduating class of 120 pupils to work for her as an assistant designer for the sportswear division DKNY. He was then offered an opening at the high design atelier of Oscar de la Renta. Rathore became the youngest designer at the atelier sending shock waves in the 7th Avenue circuit. These years were special as he spent time helm of fashion, learning the ropes, sedating the press and wooing all the lunching ladies of Paris, to promote the new vision of Mr. De la Renta for Pierre Balmain. This exposure enabled him to refine his design knowledge before launching his own label "Rathore Jodhpur" back in India in 1994. Rathore is a design based company that works on diverse design projects ranging from interior design to fashion and beyond. With the valuable 1200 years of family history & linage, it is undoubtedly the source of inspiration in his work. Mixing old-fashioned workmanship with modern aplomb, Rathore finds newer, subtler ways to evoke the spirit of a by-gone age with a fresher approach. Splitting time between home in Jodhpur and work, he is always on the move working on assignments and projects all around the globe setting newer standards in the design frontier.
Raghavendra Rathore
The collection is inspired by the sounds and sights of Rajasthan. Playing with silhouettes & prints, the entire collection is to inspire the onset of the new season.Designed with the inspiration of the new goodwill in the market for a more worldly client, this collection emphasizes the need for redesigning Indian design.
Rocky S
In 1990, Rakesh Singhvi, popularly known and recognized today as Rocky S, never dreamed that he would be where he is today. In 2000, Rocky shot to greater heights of success when he was appointed the designer and stylist for two blockbusters “Kaho Na Pyar Hain” and “Gadar”, dressing none other than superstar Hrithik Roshan and Amisha Patel. In 2003 Rocky took a bold step into retailing with retail giant Benzer in Mumbai. The success of his line at Benzer gave birth to a new brand of couture “Boulevard Benzer” with Rocky S as the design head. In 2005, besides being a part of India Fashion Week since its inception, Rocky was the only Indian designer invited to participate at the Milano Della Moda(Milan Fashion Week). He was given the honor of opening the Fashion week and showcased his talents alongside design greats like Armani, Roberto Cavalli and Prada to name a few. In 2006 Rocky S launched the Rocky S noir collection at Lakme India Fashion Week. He took his creativity a few steps further and stepped into the field of soft furnishings with his home line, “ROCKY S DUVET”. This collection of exclusive home linen offers a wide array of decorative cushions, runners, coverlets, quilt sets and a lot more.In 2006 Rocky S also tied up with the brand “Hakoba”, one of the largest Manufacturers/ exporters of crochet lace and schiffley textured fabric and launched the label “Hakoba Club by
Rocky S” for a younger audience.
After the success of his Boulevard Benzer couture label, soon to be re-launched is the Rocky S couture line which comprises of custom and higher prêt ethnic wear. This label specializes in custom made bridal couture as well as “off the rack” cocktail and indo west ensembles. In 2007, to add to his already brimming repertoire, Rocky S launched his signature fragrance
“Rocky S Noir”
The list of Bollywood celebrities that depend on Rocky for film and personal styling is endless. A few names include Esha Deol, John Abraham, Yana Gupta, Katrina Kaif, Neha Dhupia, Hrithik Roshan, Bipasha Basu, Arjun Rampal and Diya Mirza. Rocky S retails at his stand alone store at Juhu-Mumbai, Aza in Mumbai, Collage in Madras, Samsaara in Delhi and Strip in Hyderabad. Internationally, Rocky S Noir is available at MUMBAI-SE in Singapore, Dubai and Jakarta, FAE in Dubai, and Crossover in Dubai and Vancouver Canada.
Rocky S Couture
From the palaces of ancient Indian monarchy to the glitz and glamour of vintage English flamboyance, from the beauty of primeval dances to the ‘opera’…the Rocky S ‘couture’ collection draws diverse inspiration and talks about synchronism of cultures.The collection unfolds in two phases, commencing from ethnic mughal charm. A bejeweled colour palette of emerald, sapphire, ruby red and coral are complimented by traditional angarkha style silhouettes. Antique gold embellishments adorn the surfaces giving an aura of royalty to the ensembles.Moving gracefully from ethnicity to modernity, the ensuing collection exudes ornate glamour and subtle opulence…soft and neutral hues of peach, pink and beige are accented with vivid red and maroon trims. Stylized, body flattering cuts speak about fluidity and are enhanced with glittering pearls and diamante work. It captures myriad moods….those of drama, grandiosity and striking dreams.Innovative sari drapes, chic cocktails and modish bridals, the couture collection beautifully reflects femininity, stylishness and charisma. The feel is flirty yet elegant, it’s ‘ethnicity’ with a distinct edge.
Shantanu and Nikhil
Masters of elegance and sophistication, Shantanu and Nikhil, are a label synonymous with luxury. The understated appeal of their design aesthetic goes beyond the here and now into a realm of pure classicism. Defining the luxurious and the beautiful, they define the eternal feminine in essence, rather than superfluous forms. Inspired and in turn exhilarating, they create for the strong, the beautiful, the avant-garde and the well-traveled sophisticate
Enriched with a global fashion vision, the duo have moved beyond borders, infusing an Indian sensibility into a rich detailing that remains quintessentially Shantanu and Nikhil. From cricketers, to filmstars to socialites and style icons, the label today, is an ode to attention to detail, and that master of all cuts- the silhouette, remaining the most important USP in all. Feted by the media, and adorned by the crème de la crème, the Label is a style statement extraordinaire Known primarily to use Indian craftsmanship with contemporary styling, the designer duo dove into fashion; first with their Indian menswear couture line in 1999, hence the birth of “Shantanu & Nikhil”. Signature women’s collections, both diffusion and couture soon followed, and the designer duo stepped onto the field of high fashion with their debut diffusion line at the India Fashion Week in 2001. The brand’s foray in 2003 to reach out to the masses with a chic high-street western line is the combination of a fine commercial sensibility and a genuine feel for fashion. Delving deep into the emotions and inheritance of culture and sensibility, Shantanu and Nikhil cull out the essence. Going beyond the obvious, or the superficial, Shantanu and Nikhil create a unique subtext with delicate details, simple harmonies and rich textual formats. The evolution of their style has been shown in both trade shows, and couture collections in the country, which has appealed to both Indian and International buyers. Whether it has been the sylph like Shilpa Shetty at the recent IFFA awards in Yorkshire, or international cricketers, they know that style becomes the personality it envelops. Judges of the extremely popular, ‘Get Gorgeous’ show on Channel V, Shantanu and Nikhil have a take on glamour and allure, beyond the skin deep . According to “Shantanu & Nikhil”, Design is a sensibility that has to be delicately played with to create a balance between the eyes and the mind. It is a feeling, a sensation that comes from within. Style to us is the body and it talks to you the expression that your mind has created to complete the body. These daring designers were among the first to venture into the business of redesigning an entire look for the Indian superstar, Amitabh Bachchan, in a look which took Gaming on Indian Television by storm. The superior design aesthetic of “Shantanu & Nikhil” with electric colors, rich and sensuous fabrics, and silhouettes, that compliment the body has made it ubiquitous in the world of celebrity with some of the leading Indian socialites, Sports personalities (like Zaheer Khan, Irfan Pathan, Glen McGrath, Stephen Fleming & Leander Peas) and Bollywood stars (like Mr. Amitabh Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan, Kunal Kapoor, Manoj Bajpai, Shilpa Shetty, Sushmita Sen) being lead purveyors of their style
Shantanu and Nikhil
Kajal, black and smoldering, sensuous and innocent, defining wherever it goes is the theme of the collection Shantanu and Nikhil present. A sensuous collection which defines the parable of black in its many avatars, the essence remains couture. The black smokiness and shadow play of kajal defines the look of the collection. Inspired by the intricate mass of colour that is black, the designers display a series of moods and moments which range from sensual to powerful to demure. The look represents the many different facets of this colour. The silhouettes are modern with drapes that define the form. Sequences are defined by black detailing on black outfits. Delectable Indo-westerns, sensual saris and lehengas with defining drapes are the bulk of the collection. Black moves from inky depths to starlit shimmer in it's many avatars. Texturisation highlights the look and offers fitted jackets and shapely silhouettes. The unrelieved stillness of black is broken into by flashes of colour which range form oranges, fuchsia pinks to emerald greens. A collection which defies interpretation in stereotypes of fashion, this is surely a glamorous rendition of an eternal colour from Shantanu and Nikhil.
Tarun Tahiliani
Tarun Tahiliani founded his design studio in 1990. His distinctive signature has since evolved as a fusion of textile detail, refined luxury, and meticulous tailoring. TT (as he is affectionately known) creates couture, diffusion, prêt-a-porter and accessory lines, which are Indian in their sensibility, yet international in their appeal. The rich heritage of the subcontinent is reinvented as contemporary high fashion through the genius of Indian craftsmanship and the finest textiles; along with Italian pattern cutting and construction and new technologies such as digital textile printing. His unique combination of historical opulence and contemporary chic are personified as a Mughal queen, sipping cocktails in Milan. But for the Tahiliani muse to attain such effortless chic, her designer first needed to explore the history of Indian Fashion -- which essentially entailed the embellishment of textile and the masterful way these endless, dreamy lengths of cloth were draped, tied, twisted and pulled over the body. As a trend, this endured for centuries, shaping with the times and evolving slowly through cultural invasion. Men and women displayed the richness of textiles, from turbans, to saris, to dhotis or wide bodied skirts, draped or fastened by a single piece of string. No detail or labour of love, was too painstaking: Years of handwork would be kneaded into a single, lavish piece of cloth, and this tradition was passed from one generation to the next. And yet, it was not until very recently that Indian Fashion began to mature in terms of cut and proportion. The combination of these elements, along with India’s enduring and passionate affair with colour is the basis of this studio’s work. Essentially, it is the exuberant and richly detailed, structured drape that represents Tahiliani’s modern, Indian woman. His first solo show was held in September, 1994, in London. Since then, he has shown countless collections at home and around the world. In September 2003, he was the first Indian designer invited to showcase his work across the globe. In 2004, Tahiliani was awarded F Award for Best Women’s Designer for Couture. He is an office-bearer and founding member of the Fashion Design Council of India. Tarun Tahiliani’s international events in 2005 included the Milan Fashion Weeks in February, and other events and fundraisers. The clothes are worn by lovers of luxury around the world. Aishwarya Rai to Goldie Hawn to Jemima Khan to Minal Modi to Saif Ali Khan among many others. In 2006 the Italian ministry of Foreign Affairs conferred the prestigious award ‘Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity’ on Tarun Tahiliani. The ‘Fashion’ Awards voted Tarun Tahiliani to be the best Women’s Wear Couture Designer and he was also awarded the Life Time Achievement Award for contribution to Indian Fashion.This year will see the TT Design Studio move into its new Design Headquarters and the opening of the first super flagship Tarun Tahiliani store at the DLF Emporio Mall in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. This will be the first store of its kind to merchandise the entire collection – Women’s, Men’s and Accessories. Tahiliani’s new line of semi precious jewelry will also be a permanent feature at this location, along with new services and brand extensions. Milan, the fashion center of refined luxury, showcases Tahiliani’s creations in its boutiques and the collections currently sell in top stores such as Mumbai Se (Singapore), Tabla (Hong Kong), Fine and Rhine (Hong Kong), Mimosa (Riyadh), Harvey Nicholas (Riyadh), Glamour (Doha, Qatar), Garbo (United Kingdom), Khubsoorat (United Kingdom), Sunmotoyama (Japan), Saaya Boutique (Japan), Elahe (Hyderabad), Evolusione (Chennai), Samsaara (Delhi), Mebaz (Hyderabad), Moda In (Kuwait) Zenia (Kuwait), Kimaya (Dubai), Fea (Dubai), Mumbai Se (Dubai) along with his flagship stores -- Tarun Tahiliani Boutique, Ensemble in New Delhi and Mumbai and Kimaya in Mumbai.
Trans Orient Express –Tarun Tahiliani
Seasons print stories
Barkleaf
This collection is a combination of barkleaf submerged in animal skin. Prints are highlighted with black and white crochet flowers and mother-of-pearl. This print has been used in different weights of fabrics, viscose jerseys for a sporty chic T-shirt, chamois satin for an evening top. Silhouettes vary from of young halters and smocked tops to long kaftans. Sarees and fun kurtas with churidars appear in all prints.
Stripe Lace
A collection which makes clever use of old jamewar stripes highlighted by Victorian lace patches with belts and jewels. Colours range from earthy rusts to blacks and greys.
Jewel Jamewar
A collection which brings together the beauty of old world jamewar with absolutely modern gem jewels. These are further accentuated in a very flirtatious and young way with beetle and dragonfly broaches. The traditional jamewar design is offset by modern silhouettes and appear in several colours of Swarovski crystals. Silhouettes range from tie up T-shirts to draped corsets, short smocked kaftans to absolutely fitted long jackets.
Zardozi
A traditional Indian colour palette of oranges, fuchsia pinks, lime and olive greens have been explored in this collection. It has a combination of antique zardozi motifs which are beautifully highlighted in gold studs.
Striper
The overlay of different Indian linear stripes in an asymmetrical way to create an illusion of a corset. Asymmetrical jewel flower made in antique ‘kasab’ and Swarovski crystals which is cut worked and appliquéd on the silhouettes. The silhouettes are flowing and full, re-creating a feel which is rustic with urban chic. Fabrics range from pure silks to stretch chamois and stretch tulles for shirt dresses.
Lace
The delicate fragile beauty of Victorian lace in a collage of various laces is put together to create an illusion of a corset. Appliqué lace motifs and Swarovski crystals embellished in the garments lift the translucency of the lace prints. Silhouettes are sexy evening wear, moulded to the body, the colours enhancing the illusion of skin and transparency.
Chikan Embroidery
The creation of this line is the result of innovation and experimentation with this traditional technique of embroidery. ‘Tepchi’ uses a combination of traditional embroidery on raffia. Silhouettes are very modern and highly draped to take traditional embroidery a step further.
Machine Embroidery
The two groups in machine embroidery illustrate diverse use of different techniques such as appliqué of black lace skin further highlighted with fine Japanese materials. The other group explores the combination of lace and net appliqué on neutrals with a fair amount of cut work. Silhouettes range from baby doll tops to textured kurtis, Indian sherwanis for women and structured garments like jackets.
Textured Italian
This group explores different textures like random pin tucking, smocking, fluting, ruffles combined with highly draped dresses and tops made in imported silk jerseys.The Jewel Pieces The jewel Indian pieces on order from the stores unfurl on its canvas, mukaish, chikan, swarovski and zardozi for special occasions. These will not be in the show. Goddess Drapes In a season where the agendas of fashion are being rewritten, this collection, though classic in inspiration, has a modern interpretation, satisfying both the desire for tradition and modernity, ornamentation and sobriety. A minimal colour palette of black, beige and coral in an array of monochrome is distinctly characterized by finely pleated silk georgettes and effervescent crystal trims. This true couture in spirit collection of ready to wear, which has its heart set for Indian tradition, has a modern twist to detail and styling executed with martial austerity. Kurtas and saris in a combination of pleated georgette are reshaped to give it a contemporary bite and cleverly used Swarovski crystal trims takes it a step further. The pleasures of this collection are found in the impeccable construction and smallest of details, the sculpted fan pleated bodice of a strapless kurta, the crystal chain descending the front of a halter dress or around the neckline of a tunic dress or the way a cape is designed to remain demurely in place skimming the body like a breeze…The finale is draped goddess dresses in a moulten liquid jersey that drips onto the body and like lava and folds around the curves. This, mixed with Swarovski rocks and jewelled beetles, enhances the raw sensuality of volcanic eruption in goddess formats.Silhouettes are very modern and broaches adorn the formal evening wear for cocktails to black tie.
Vikram Phadnis
Often referred to as Bollywood’s ace designer, Vikram started his career as a choreographer before rising to fame as a fashion designer. Not having gone through any formal training in fashion designing, he currently adorns the wardrobes of the biggest names in the glamour industry. Besides his passion for designing, Vikram is a very good stylist, making celebrities of today what they are. Right from their wardrobes to their hair-do, to their makeup while taking full responsibility of their complete makeover.Vikram’s efforts have always been to achieve synthesis of popular avant-garde tastes. This has been his unique selling point in his bridal and prêt-a-porter wear. In the fashion and film industry, he has created for himself a place, which can be filled by none other.
Vikram Phadnis- Collection Note
Black teamed with hues of beige n gold embroidery lend lightness and freedom bringing a richness and depth to the collection. Each ensemble is immaculate in detailing exquisite in its contemporary treatment and eclectic style. Rich embroideries add sophistication and modernity. Embellished with zardosi, kasab and coins, the artwork is simply striking. All silhouettes with indo-west cuts create interplay of surface effects and embellishments resulting in a sensual effect of feminine elegance and sophistication.
Wendell Rodricks
Wendell Rodricks began his career in fashion after a successful tenure in hotel management. Trained in Los Angeles and Paris, he returned to India in 1988. After a brief span of two years, designing and styling for reputed companies such as Garden Vareli, cosmetic giant Lakme and diamond corporate De Beers, Wendell Rodricks established his own label in 1990. The Wendell Rodricks signature style is unique in India, blending ancient Indian geometry with a relaxed Goan attitude. Using natural Indian fabrics, cut in a linear line, the silhouette is sheer, layered, draped and fluid. Emphasis is on concrete themes, experimental colour combinations, exotic fibre weaves, structural simplicity based on geometric Indian shapes and hand-painted details. The garments are worn by a growing clientele from all walks of life that share a similar minimal, spiritual aesthetic.
Lounge Lizard- Wendell Rodricks
The Wendell Rodricks Lounge Lizard collection for the Chivas Regal Fashion Tour is inspired by and aimed at the young lounge reveler. All over India, the concept of a lounge or club has emerged as an integral part of entertainment. In the relaxed yet energetic ambience, clothing is young, sexy, sporty and yet cocktail. Using a colour palette including black, aubergine, deep olive and silver, the Lounge Lizard collection by Wendell Rodricks uses diverse fabric woven or treated with a technological edge: Velvet is woven with lycra. Organza is heat treated to form pleats. Silver is infused with stretch that does not ‘crack’ the silver. Lycra is plastic coated for a leather shine. All these treatments make the clothes look modern and futuristic. Using a variety of silhouettes, styling and layering, Wendell Rodricks sends out his signature style of minimalism, reinvented each season with a new creativity.
The Wendell Rodricks lounge lizard collection for the Chivas Regal Tour will be available as a limited edition collection at Zoya and Aza (Mumbai), Raintree (Bangalore) Ensemble and Ogaan (New Delhi).
