Shape of fashion
Designers have opened the green door and launched smaller, meaningful collections, which reverberate with responsibility as AR, virtuality and AI are set to rule the aesthetic laboratory of the future
Ithink fashion will undergo a sea change in the coming months, which will define its future trajectory. It’s a departure from bare shoulders, ruffles, belted waists, tiers, embroidered sweet whispers in organza. What’s new is an eco-vision as the pandemic has removed the rose-tinted glasses. The whole idea of reuse, recycle and buy back has found a renewed interest.
‘Revolutionary’ is the buzzword and with this comes the wings of freedom, where you can wear your mother’s trousseau by refashioning it. What I have observed is the growth in the handloom sector and a willingness to adopt textiles which are an embodiment of timelessness within the framework of couture.
Unlike the need to create endlessly, now you make on-demand smaller capsule collections, which are pointed. With seasons and trends fading away, the pressure has eased on the style hemisphere, where you are launching more solution-based ensembles with versatility. One outfit can be worn in three different ways, or revisiting vintage techniques, which are labour intensive but possess powerful imagery, are now gaining steam.
SLOW FASHION
The philosophy of ownership is also transforming, as you are repurposing with purpose, and getting innovative with existing materials. JJ Valaya has brides who come to him with their mother’s trousseau asking for a modern twist, in keeping, with his ‘royal’ ideology. While Shantanu and Nikhil have started a buy back scheme for their old garments where you can win credit notes under ——Re-love, Re-own & Re-use.
Amit Aggarwal has been a champion of sorts working extensively with metallic accents that sometimes come from used pipes, polymers intermingling it with textiles and sparking a conversation on how important it is to pursue less is more.
CODE RED
If you study the India Couture Week 2020 collections, they have been injected with vibrant hues to probably add a bit of sunshine to a gloomy last six months. From sindoori red to vivacious fuchsias, there has been a new palate for palettes.
Live action shopping is outdated, one-on-one styling appointments, real time and the digital closet is the next wave. The good part this year, is the see now, buy now model, will allow consumers to get their hands on what they have just finished viewing.
There is a rise of e-fitting, phy-gital experiences, artificial intelligence and virtual models. I foresee a time when technology will enable you to select your own fabric and print, making it custom-built adapting to altering social behaviour.
I think couture will also leave its formality and modern separates will be a norm.
Intimate weddings have brought out the best in designers with experimentation becoming the flag bearer as tradition meets technology with a “feel great” factor. As long as brides need one-of-akind clothing, that is individual and suited to their fantasies, couture will reach the pinnacle of prosperity. It is here to stay and rule the world.
With seasons and trends fading away, the pressure has eased on the style hemisphere.
SUNIL SETHI, FDCI chairman
TAURUS
APR 21-MAY 21
You are on top of things to infuse great energy in personal relationships and enthusiasm in professional aspects. Avoid conflicts and confrontations. You are blessed with energy that aids enthusiasm and spontaneity in every aspect of life. It is time to let go of the past and move forward positively in relationships and professional changes. Beware of domineering attitudes. Meditation can heal old wounds and relationships. Be lighthearted to make breakthroughs in difficult situations and reach unapproachable people. Lucky Number: 15 Lucky Colour: Crimson
GEMINI
MAY 22-JUN 21
Since you are divided about choices, a quick, decision takes you towards fulfilment and success this week. Imbalance and argument in personal partnership are painful but clear the air for a healthier relationship. Overanalysing situations can only add to further confusion. It’s time to drop the divided schizophrenic mind, and become integrated, centered and crystallised. Be total while saying ‘yes’ or ‘no’ in any situation. You resolve conflicts through discussion and mediation.
Lucky Number: 2 Lucky Colour: Peacock Green
Selena Gomez
LEO
JUL 24-AUG 23
Details in everyday work need to be looked at and sorted out this week. When restless, take a break and indulge in sporty activity. You go through a gamut of experience and changes in emotional relationships, it is best to remain centered by witnessing rather than participating in arguments or conflicts. Beware of over indulgence in emotion, food or drink. Creative occupations bring pleasure and gain. Mood swings and sensitive moments need to be watched with awareness. Yoga, a healthy diet and meditation can heal and rejuvenate you. Lucky Number: 2 Lucky Colour: Lilac
VIRGO
AUG 24-SEP 23
You make an impact in ambitious business projects with your leadership qualities this week. Professional power is vested in you to organise and achieve important targets. You attract the right people and opportunities to move forward in business aspects. Sharing and enjoying the little joys of life is as important as achieving great professional success. Personal relationships are strong but you tend to be the one in control and making all the decisions for now. You are compassionate and generous with friends and associates.
Lucky Number: 4 Lucky Colour: Crimson