CHIVAS Fashion Tour October - November 2008

(Chivas Fashion Tour Launch Party Pics) Above;
CHIVAS Fashion Tour October - November 2008 ; About CHIVASChivas in FashionChivas is an uber chic global brand that evokes the most passionate sensibilities. In just 12 months of Chivas’ association with Fashion, the two are synonymous with each other. With its association with New York Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, three India India Fashion Weeks, Three Lakme Fashion Weeks and One mega fashion caravan traveling in India and overseas called the Chivas Fashion Tour, Chivas and Fashion have taken the fashion fraternity by stormWhat Chivas does with Fashion:Support to Indian designers at New York and Paris Fashion Week: Designers that Chivas has associated with are, Ashish Soni and Manish Arora.The Chivas Lounge at India Fashion Week, India Couture week and Lakme Fashion Week- An exclusive lounge to relax and have a Chivas is created amidst frenzy of shows and business for designers, buyers, media and A- listers at the fashion Week. This lounge is so exclusive that if you are not seen here, you are not there yet!!The first edition of the Chivas Fashion Tour in 2007, was a runaway success. It was for the first time that a Fashion event from India traveled overseas to the Middle East.The second edition of the Chivas Fashion Tour starting this September has another first- An international designer makes her/his debut on an Indian RunwayAn annual event, it is not just the designers who vie to be part of the Chivas Fashion Tour but also A list celebrities and Fashion Media who clamor to be seen at this event. With India’s finest designers participating on invitation, top models, and only the best in sound, light, set design, the Chivas Fashion Tour is ‘the’ fashion event every year In India.

Designers Collection

Anmika KhannaSpring Summer 2009
A universal collection of contrasts. Juxtaposition of the organic and luxury. Structure and fluidity, dark and light.Unique handcrafted techniques from Indian treasure troves, borrowing international silhouettes. The color palette extending from ivory whites to earth tones into black.A sense of confidence, clam and maturity. A timeless collection, pieces translating from day to evening. Independent, individual and versatile for the thinking woman with a mind of her own. Not to be typecased into a trend.

Ayesha Depala
The Ayesha Depala collection for Chivas reveals an intrinsically feminine woman with a strong personality. Flowers are the key inspiration for this collection, and they reccur in everything from trousers, to gowns.The ready to wear part of this collection is very much character driven, and it affords the wearer the ability to play with their imagination, and mix and match the pieces to dress up, or down their various moods. The overwhelming sense of the collection is that of fun and glamour.The couture remains light and feminine as ever, with the ever-present use of lace, tulle, muslin and linen. Ayesha has played with construction and drape, married with traditional embroidery techniques such as gota leaves, done in unusual ways to dramatic effect.Ayesha’s signature vintage Edwardian lace crowns this collection with breathtaking embroidered gowns, highlighting the collection’s innovation and timelessness.

Deepika Govind
A Loose Kite On A Gentle Wind - by Deepika Govind. It is a story about kites and our quest for freedom. It is a story that every Indian can identify with. The second half of the tale is about knots – the shackles that bind us, the hurdles that keep us but a hair’s breath away from that elusive haven of freedom. Eveningwear ensembles that are often spiritual, intellectual, lyrical, abstract, yet always beautiful. They are at once avant garde and classic, transcending both time and culture.

Malini Ramani'Party Planet'
For my Fall/Winter 2008/9 Season, I have designed a collection called'Party Planet". Judging by the hectic social whirl of the months goneby...one can only imagine the enslaught of back to back parties,openings and jet-set weddings creeping up around the corner.For the first time in ages, I have designed 100% pure andunadulterated party wear !My colour story is like a tray of dessert...caramel, chocolate, nougatand truffles. Add a dash of gold and there you have it... the perfectpalette for any party-girl.Flambouyant prints and intricate applique and bead work add that extramagic to the deep winter tones.Easy to wear luxurious fabrics in sexy cuts and Indian inspired motifsis what inspired this collection.

Raghavendra Rathore

The collection evokes a fresh clarity of form, energy & spontaneity. The designs have been given a graphic approach through a basic silhouette put together with bands of colors.Remixing and reinventing the silhouettes in an extraordinary modern way adds to the versatility of the collection. The collection has a wide array of tops that have been restructured to emulate a balance between diversity and wear ability. The overall feel is brilliant yet contemporary with an element of sensual feminity. Ascents of colour hold the collection together, thereby mixing and matching ideas, fabrics, colours, structures and techniques.

Rohit Bal
The ancient artistic tradition of Ashta Dhatu involves the combining of 8 different metals for the purpose of creating a variety of aesthetic objects. When worn on the body the combination of these metals is believed to have miraculous healing properties.This latest collection has been inspired by this age-old art form.The color palette includes Gold, Metallic Copper, Silver, Iron, Lead, Tin, Lead, Zinc and Mercury. There are strong Indian elements in terms of the fabrics, embroidery, and liberal use of specially created handcrafted ‘Gota’. The extensive use of the same is symbolic of the collection’s indigenousness.The silhouettes have been kept contemporary and international, keeping in mind the emerging global market. The collection falls under the category of "creative" and is extremely luxurious and sensuous.Various textures and fabric treatments that have been used to create this collection with the interplay of color with volume and layering add a sense of mystic aura and define a sense creative amalgamation.The collection is dramatic in its appeal and is for most part un-wearable. Un-wearability, however, has never been a criterion for a Rohit Bal collection. Key elements from earlier collections have been incorporated to create an exhilarating crescendo-A fusion of fashion, art and craft melted together like the eight metals in Ashta Dhatu.

Varun Bahl
Varun Bahl teams up with CHIVAS to recreate timeless beauty and entwine thetraditional with the surreal.The silhouettes are contemporary - sarees,lehngas with odhnis, and the very much invogue this season,the ornate Angrakha(popularly called Anarkali) teamed with churidar. The garments are embellished with embroideries ranging from threadwork,tilla and zardozi- all of which lend splendour to the garment.The colours that create magic areantique gold,moss green,fuschia and red. All the above are a tribute to the modern woman...to live her dream

Wendell Rodricks
Wendell Rodricks creates a suite of cocktail dresses and evening loungewear in a romantic mood. Inspired by the Romantic Era of the late 1800’s, the clothes borrow from the easy beach style in Goa. These are clothes for rockstar chicks, boho spirits, hippie flower children and the romantic at heart. Soft pastel tones and resort details such as shells, mother of pearl, coconut fibre, feathers and ribbon embellish the collection. This is the romantic side of a designer in love with the feminine women of another era for the romantic women of today. Pastels have been treated to colonial dusty tones and cut in a manner that is typical of the Wendell Rodricks. From Goa and the early British romantic Orientalists, Wendell Rodricks creates for the Chivas Fashion Tour a unique collection called "Romantica".

Ashish-Soni
LE JARDIN DES FLEURSLE JARDIN DES FLEURS - Ashishs's spring summer 09 collection strongly favors form over opulent excess , creating his signature minimalist stand rocked by the change of the maximal kind. It’s about seeking alternatives to the cold anonymity of mass production and standardized industrial processes. The challenge for this collection has been revitalizing the concept of precisely sculpted silhouettes , subtly twisting proportions and inventing new stitching techniques, The highlight of the collection is a blend of draped and tailored pieces, very sculptural, atmospheric and evocative, uber intellectual and uber .Ashish N Soni’s instinctive style translates into an unlikely combination of period and contemporary elements which is the very essence of this collection. The brands appreciation for the beauty of plainness along with dedication to detail is skillfully captured in relaxed looks constructed in a somber colour palette of cream-hued textiles alongside the signature white . The range contains beautifully blended light cotton airy fabrics communicating a tremendous feel for modern living that’s seems keen to elaborate on the soft , yet very confident feminine message.

Cue - Rohit Gandhi & Rahul Khanna
This evening Cue presents the look to be a combination of easy going silhouettes with refined sensibilities which results in intelligent glam. The collection is about the exploration of the cleverly embellished and uniquely cut possibilities for urban evening wear. Geometric precision and hidden secrets, all find physical resonance in this very chic collection. Structured lines, modulated fittings, clever twists are the silhouettes that the collection comprises of.

Kiran Uttam Ghosh
The A/W line from Kiran Uttam Ghosh in shades of Black, Indigo and Forest Green .Silhouettes are structured with controlled volume, Jackets, Dresses, Tunics and Trousers. Accents of Blood red, Turquoise and Emerald complete the look.

Mandira Wirk
Inspiration! A word that always evokes a dual emotion from me. Are we truly inspired by something externally and take cues from it or are we stimulated and stirred by a deep inherent feeling and a catalyst appears from somewhere to take it forward. Are we inspired from outside forces or are we led by inner motivations? Thus once again defining my inspiration for my clothing collection takes me through these conflicting emotions. As I sit looking through my collection, my first thoughts go to the original inspiration - where this entire assemblage of clothing took birth. The Medieval Ages! But immediately that phrase conjures up images of barbaric deeds, despair and darkness. My mind recoils and I instantaneously reject that but my thoughts also goes back to the fact that- that Era, that period of time was also the dawn of a new coming. Of Civilizations that were resplendent with splendid and exhilarating colors, design and structures. Of Cultures that taught the world about elegance, aristocracy and splendor. These may be called the dark ages due to warring factions, but they are also a shining beacon towards true nobility and grace. And from within these epic chronicles of style – a magnificent example and one that always takes my breath away – is the usage of Stained Glass Art. An Art form that may well be the defining and only depiction of Man and God’s relationship through luminous painting. Of tales told through a pictorial storyboard that are etched on some of the most magnificent structures known to mankind; those incomparably revered churches and cathedrals.Very few things in life have a profound impact, an influence and effect that change your very being forever. For me, these translucent glass masterpieces did just that. I embarked on a journey of trying to understand what decorative art stood for and the how it can portrayed through one of the most incursive of mediums in today’s age; ‘Fashion’. And to my mind, that is what my inspirational channel for my collection is. But is it an inspiration that I outwardly saw and absorbed or was it something that lay dormant inside me and was unleashed when I was introduced to these medieval masterworks. That may well be the eternal question - and one for which I have no answer!

Rocky S
The collection could be best defined as a mélange of chic feminine ensembles. Beautifully cut gowns come alive in soft flowy fabrics like satin, chiffon and georgette. The line comprises of an interesting concoction of colours, both bright and understated The gowns and dresses have been embellished with fabric and sequin texturing. Eyelet work, along with silk thread and cord work has been accentuated with pretty sequins A hint of vintage gold embroidery teamed with soft frills and pleats delicately compliments and completes the collection.

Shantanu-Nikhil
The vision of a Modern India is the glorious fashionable India that the entire world has been waiting to embrace for many years now. India is no longer just a story of snake charmers or classical and ornate palaces but one that has the potential of making luxe fashion statements on a truly contemporary global palette. While an average modern Indian has evolved, but the sensibilities have remained quintessential Indian, and hence there is a strong sense of pride in announcing the arrival of this new exotic fusion. Keeping this in mind, Shantanu and Nikhil true to their signature have this time around created a collection that has strong flaovors of vintage India served on a western philosophy of drapes and silhouettes, thereby making it marketable to a global woman who is confident, independent and a sophisticate world traveller. The collection pays a rich tribute to the vintage colours and applications of ancient India, be it the appliqué work of heritage Indian jewelery motifs, the hand-made kaantha techniques inter-woven into intricate fabric textures, or combining rich hand-woven Indian fabrics with laser cut leather techniques. While keeping the handwriting essentially subtle with Indian monochromatic tones, the language is most definitely contemporary and silhouette centric. Pastel shades of gold and beiges teamed with vintage colors like fiery reds, smokey ash greys and blacks form the color palette for the season, thereby thriving on the philosophy that a smart interplay of vintage colors on beautiful Indian skin tones is what makes India such a hugely inspirational land of cross-cultures and future global trend

Vikram Phadnis
The collection is a blend of contrast concepts. This inexhaustible collection gives a very pretext of unexpected femininity and comes out in a explosion of blends of neutral prints with hints of color . The Silhouettes are very stylized and disciplined melting with the glamorous universe of night life. Free flowing nets surfaced with shimmer gives an impression of elegance. and the interplay of light through the nets and textures blended with metallic hues add another dimension to the collection giving it a very high regal look. The collection leaves an impact of a very high tailored look to the garments and has distinctive styling to them. The collection has a toned down contemplative feeling and as always "FASHION" is a reflecting amazement of contamination and rethinking. with Local Hero in 1983, Knopfler has scored several motion pictures. He has also recorded with Chet Atkins and with the Notting Hillbillies. After the demise of Dire Straits in 1995, he returned to a more personal style for his debut solo album, 'Golden Heart', in 1996. Subsequent soundtrack efforts include 1998's Wag the Dog, 1998's Metroland and 2002's Shot at Glory. Sailing to Philadelphia, a lush collection of folk-rock and breezy americana that featured guest appearances by James Taylor, Van Morrison, and Squeeze leaders Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford appeared in fall 2000.'The Ragpickers Dream' followed in 2002 which was an instant Top Ten in the UK. In 2003, on the way to rehearsals in London, Knopfler broke his collarbone, shoulder and seven ribs in a motorcycle crash. He returned in 2004 with Shangri-La. Mark has been married three times, and has twin sons from his second marriage, and a daughter with his current wife, Kitty Aldrige.Quotes"My idea of heaven is a place where the Tyne meets the Delta, where folk music meets the blues" "I've never had a guitar lesson. I'm not proud of it particularly, but it's just the way I seem to do it. It's not the best way. I don't recommend it to all your readers" "If something is played with soul, that's what's important. My favorite records, by and large, aren't wonderful technical achievements""I don't believe in perfect, I just don't believe that. There's so many ways to do any song, perfection's just a cloud in the air. People say I'm a perfectionist and all of that. It's just not so"AlbumsGolden Heart - 1996 Sailing to Philadelphia- 2000 The Ragpicker's Dream - 2002 Shangri-La - 2004 Sultans of Swing, Very best of Dire Straits and Shangri-La Cassettes and CD's available on Universal.

CHIVAS Schedule"Chivas in fashion 08 "Tentative Schedule :Date DayCityVenueDesigner26th Sep 08 FridayMumbaiITC Central1.Rohit Bal 27th. Sep 08 SaturdayMumbaiITC Central1. Raghu & Vikram ,2. Malini & Cue28th. Sep 08 SundayMumbaiITC Central1. Rocky S & Ayesha Depala 2. Wendell & Shantanu - Nikhil1st Nov 08 SaturdayKolkataOberoi Grand 1.Mandira / Deepika/ Kiran2nd Nov 08 SundayKolkataOberoi Grand 1.Shantanu-Nikhil & Raghu & Varun8th Nov 08 SaturdayBangaloreLeela Palace1.Mandira / Deepika/ Kiran 9th Nov 08 SundayBangaloreLeela Palace1.Ashish & Anamika & Raghu14th Nov 08 FridayDelhiIntercontinental Eros1.Rocky S & Cue15th Nov 08 SaturdayDelhiIntercontinental Eros1. Varun & Wendell 2.Anamika & Ashish 3. Malini & Vikram 16th Nov 08 SundayDelhiIntercontinental Eros1. Mandira/ Deepika/ Kiran 2. Rohit Bal

Information & Pics provided by Clea PR - Brought to you by ; TFW - The Fashion WeekEND - Fashion Publicist & PRStudio Varuag, New Delhi. Gaurav Kapoor - 9811996129

RAFW commences from 28th April to 2nd May in Sydney

RAFW commences from 28th April to 2nd May in Sydney.
nicolangela Spring Summer 0809 will be on the RAFW runway @ 2pm on Tuesday 29th April @ the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay, Sydney

RAFW is an industry only

Koncept and Printsource host The Future Café

THE FUTURE CAFÉ
Each season Koncept and Printsource host The Future Café, a global overview of fashion and home textile trends by the world's leading forecasting services. The presentations are regularly attended by standing-room-only crowds. Presenters have included Peclers, Promostyl, Trend Union, The Doneger Group, Cotton Inc., Jo-An Jenkins, Dupont, Paul Pelssers, Andrea dall'Olio, Carlin International, d.cipher-FM, ESP Trendlab and others.
With The Future Café, Koncept and Printsource New York provide a comprehensive overview of each season's color direction and main trends. The seminars are offered to fashion designers and merchandisers, product developers, design directors and merchandise managers.
THE FUTURE CAFÉ. A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF FASHION AND HOME TEXTILE TRENDS BY THE WORLD'S LEADING TREND FORECASTERS.


THE FUTURE CAFÉ - SUMMER COLLECTIONS 2009
Seminars fee is $100 per person for the entire seminar series. Pre-registration required. (Click on REGISTER at left). $125 per person at the door, cash only.
Photo I.D. and pass required at the door. Pass is personal and non-transferable. Seating is on a first-come basis.
TUESDAY - APRIL 15, 2008
9:30 am
Key Points for Lingerie and Swimwear Trends, Summer 2009Andrea Praet, Trend Consultant, Promostyl Americas
10:30 am
Key Points for Childrenswear Trends, Summer 2009Jeanine Pesce, Trend Consultant, Promostyl Americas
11:30 am
WGSN, the leading global online trend analysis service, will present global trend directions for spring/summer 2009 including directional influences, color, textile and styling for menswear and womenswear. Seminar will be conducted by Helen Job, US director of content, recognized for her expertise in trend analysis and forecasting. Ms. Job is also a professor on the fashion marketing AAS program at Parsons School of Design.
12:30 pm
WGSN, see above.
1:30 pm
Lifestyle Trends for the Home, 2009British trend forecasting consultancy, Trend Bible presents the latest social, cultural and consumer trends set to affect home ware for 2009. This presentation will include colour, pattern and styling directions for all aspects of the home, including textiles, wall coverings, ceramics, tableware, home electronics and appliances.Nick Paget, Trend Consultant, Trend Bible
2:30 pm
Kid's Lifestyle Trends, 2009British trend forecasting consultancy, Trend Bible preview their Kid's Lifestyle Trends publication with a unique presentation, comprised of key lifestyle influences for children’s home products, toys and electronics.Nick Paget, Trend Consultant, Trend Bible
3:30 pm
“From a Design Director’s Perspective…What You Need to Know About Summer 09”Fran reviews the key points carrying over from Spring and what is new for the second quarter, including updated retail photos from London and Paris. Ladies Apparel.Fran Yoshioka, Consultant
WEDNESDAY - APRIL 16, 2008
9:30 am
Emerging trends in Color, Surface Design and Materials and their influences on the Home Décor, Decorative Accessories and Gift Markets for the upcoming season.Patti Y. Carpenter, President + Creative Director, Continuum Home, Inc. and Carpenter + Company
10:30 am
Carlin International Spring 2009 Childrenswear Trend ForecastNicki Gondell, Trend House
11:30 am
Trend House Home Interiors 2009 Trend Forecast (color, fabrics, styling and key items)Nicki Gondell, Trend House
12:30 pm
Carlin International Fall 2009 General Trend Overview (mood, color, print/pattern)Nicki Gondell, Trend House
1:30 pm
Lifestyle Trends for the Home, 2009British trend forecasting consultancy, Trend Bible presents the latest social, cultural and consumer trends set to affect home ware for 2009. This presentation will include colour, pattern and styling directions for all aspects of the home, including textiles, wall coverings, ceramics, tableware, home electronics and appliances.Nick Paget, Trend Consultant, Trend Bible
2:30 pm
Key Points for Lingerie and Swimwear Trends, Summer 2009Andrea Praet, Trend Consultant, Promostyl Americas

SPECIAL PRESENTATION
8:45 am Tuesday and WednesdayThere is a separate charge for this presentation, payable at the door only.$35.00 cash or company check.Registration - 8:30 am
PRINT, PATTERN AND SURFACE DESIGN TREND OVERVIEW FOR THE APPAREL AND INTERIORS MARKETS.
Start your shopping by seeing our first-ever overview presentation specifically for print, pattern and surface design with images from the exhibiting studios.
Patti Y. Carpenter, President + Creative Director, Continuum Home, Inc. and Carpenter + Company
Patti Y. Carpenter, an international design, color and trend consultant/merchandiser for the contemporary home decor industry, is the principal/creative director of Continuum Home, Inc. and Carpenter + Company. With a career that spans more than 30 years, she has worked with designers such as Bill Blass, Oscar de la Renta, Cynthia Rowley, Adrienne Vittadini, Donna Karan and Ralph Lauren. Patti now works with indigenous craftspeople around the world on her collection of hand made textiles that are fairly traded and traditionally produced. She is recognized for the success of her work in developing global designs for the American, Asian and European markets.

Sabyasachi- Lakme Fashion Week@Mumbai/ Fall Winter - March 08

Sabyasachi - Lakme Fashion Week/ Fall Winter - March 08 Collection

Noisy, crowded, contradictory:
Perhaps a little bit of everything like d.y.i. French homes.
Plastic farmlands and sugary brothels,
Life couldn’t be more beautiful without you!

“BOMBAY GLAM” Fall-Winter - Lakme Fashion Week@Mumbai '08

“BOMBAY GLAM”
Pria Kataria Puri’s collection of luxury silhouettes for the Fall-Winter 2008 season is inspired by the dazzle and glitz of India’s business and glamour Capital - Mumbai city.

“The BOMBAY GLAM collection is designed especially for the numerous festivals which Indian’s celebrate towards the latter end of the year, like Diwali, Eid, Navratri, Christmas and New Year,” says Pria.

Further explaining her inspiration behind this luxurious collection, Pria says, “Mumbai is a city of endless dreams, where glamour in all forms touches each and every citizen, regardless of which strata of society they hail from. The charm of Mumbai city lies in its enthusiastic spirit that connects its people on all levels. In fact, despite the huge economic disparity prevailing in the city, its one common theme - “Glamour” - that unites them all. Whether it is Bollywood or sports or fashion, glamour is inescapable and superstars are born everyday.

We can refer this city as “The Cocktail City” – a cocktail of culture, religion, belief, faith, standards and lifestyle. A city that amuses everyone with its glamour, glitz, show bizz, paparazzi…….everyone loves them and wants to be a part of it.

I am inspired by everybody who plays a role in the creation of glamour – right from the people who design the fabric and create the prints to the tailors and embroiderers who execute the final product that ultimately adorn superstars on the red carpet.

We have just made an attempt to highlight the special efforts that are put in by the labour class that usually goes unseen and un-noticed in the making of any high-end product. This class of people plays a very important role in our lives right from what we wear to what we do, to what we eat to how we life. This is the phenomenal truth that without their skilled labour, we would have no access to anything luxurious.

With this collection, we salute (and respect) every individual, regardless of whether they live in palatial mansions or huts. We honour each one of them who lives life to the fullest and constantly strive to stretch their boundaries to achieve their goals, which might just be daily bread for some one or artistically expressing ones views to keep an art alive and growing day by day.

This collection is about raising a toast to the labour class for their precious presence that has made our lives easy and smooth.

The city and its culture has inspired millions of champagne and caviar dreams and that’s what I celebrate in this collection…!!!”

Autumn in the Old Town - WLIFW Fall/Winter 2008

Nostalgia isn't what it used to be
- Peter De Vries

Sucheta Merh’s inherent inclination to romance with design is reflected in her Fall/Winter 2008 Collection, which derives its inspiration from the rustic charm of autumnal tenor and palette. What emerges is the nostalgic mood of a young girl revisiting her ancestral home, reminiscing, endearing experiences.

The sunrise, amidst a playful herd of sheep and departure at sunset reflect the gamut of emotions which make for playful joy...

The colours of the Collection are naturally autumnal, where yellows, camel and brown are highlighted with creative inclusion of purple and orange. The fabrics used are naturally soft, silk organzas, cotton nets, chiffons, woven georgettes, fluid jersey and soft washed satins.

Straight silhouettes reflect the relaxed and laid-back mood of the theme, whereas the layered ensembles symbolise the complexities of the nostalgic mind Renewed classic shapes have been created with a focus on flowing capes, floating panels, jackets and relaxed silhouettes. Layered frills and lace effects has been used to emphasize the girl-woman conflict of the collection. The look is sophisticated with textured and printed motifs on natural fabrics.

Snow Queen

Snow Queen

Swapan and Seema's WLIFW March 2008 Collection titled 'Snow Queen' brings back the powerful feminine. It is dedicated to the brand of beauty that harkens the mood of regal splendour. They achieve this with a judicious blend of luxurious fabrics and intricate detailing. The colour palette is warm with rich plum, rose and burgundy. The luxe factor is incorporated with delicate burnished gold and copper embroidery-as well as their hallmark crystals and beading. The fabrics range from silks, velvet, satin to tulle and georgette for milder Indian autumns.

This collection is eclectic responding to a cocktail mood and moving into the traditional Indian wedding. There are flirty dresses along with embellished sarees and lehengas as well as evening gowns. The jackets and capes are perfect accessories for evening wear. They are versatile and can switch easily from a Western to an Indian ensemble. There's also a return to a more relaxed element with 'layering'.

In a word, the Snow Queen Collection carries forward what Swapan and Seema do best, ie celebrate contemporary female power- with an edge.

Chivas In Fashion show@WLIFW /FALL (March'08)

Chivas In Fashion show

Raghuvendra Rathore
The penultimate day of WIFW reached a resounding climax with the Chivas In Fashion show presenting the timeless appeal of Raghavendra Rathore’s creations. Offering a surprising twist to the normal, Rathore showcased a deconstructed experimental look that was brought alive on the ramp by blazing guns from the world of cricket. The showstopper in an elegant Rathore ensemble along with Ace Sixer Yuvraj Singh, Robin Uthappa. After conquering Australia with their cricketing skills, they brought the same spirited energy and camaraderie to the ramp.

In other words, the show brought to the forefront a unique amalgamation of diverse cultures and a collection that is global yet unmistakably soaked in the grandeur of India – creating a look that spells India contemporary. Quite like the brand, Chivas, that blends world class quality with young energy, represented on the ramp by the young lads of cricket who have put the stamp of India on the world map.

Rohit Gandhi & Rahul Khanna

Kunal Kapoor, Tinu Vergheese , Nina Manuel walks the ramp for Fiama Di Wills show for Rohit Gandhi & Rahul Khanna 'Cue'

'Wrapping Up' Da Goddess.

How to wrap a Goddess.
The third day of WIFW opened with all attributes of glamour when Amit GT presented his collection for fall 08/09.
The evening wear range comprised satins and crepes in dramatic colours with well-placed crystal embellishments to highlight the feminine figure.
Fur, which was used for high necks and shrugs, gave a lovely impression of skating on ice. The colour palette included bold red, bright fuchsia, smoky aubergine, soft nude, jet black, pure white and silver lame - just right for the lady to stand out in the limelight at a big social event.
The dresses were constructed to highlight the feminine contours through narrow waists, corsets and bustiers, flowing floor-length skirts and trains which additionally added drama to the styles.
Details such as pleats, centre front rushing or gathers were used to shape the gowns and additionally embellished with crystals for a sparkling effect.
What turned out to be the key piece was a black satin gown with pleated bustier, emphasized empire line and a black and white skirt extension which spectacularly trailed behind to occupy the ramp.
This collection convinced through its goddess-like silhouettes and its apparent reminiscence of the great gowns from the 1950s.

Chivas Fashion Tour October -November, 2007

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).