Old world charmers
“I am not about fashion, I am old fashioned,” designer Umang Hutheesing’s sweeping statement carries the weight of centuries old legacy juxtaposed with style. The revivalist designer evokes an era when clothes did not carry a seasonal expiry date, rather they were preserved for generations to come.
So how about taking a pause and allowing the fashionista in you to break free of the trend trap for an indulgence that is timeless and classy with a capital C? And, if you have made up your mind to embark on a sartorial sojourn of India’s royalty, Umang offers to introduce you to the Durbar collection.
Sharing a slice of history, he says, “It was the year 1911, King George and Queen Mary visited India and as a symbolic welcome, the Gateway of India was built and a grand durbar was held at Delhi. India’s nobility and royalty congregated for this event. Their fabulous clothing, dazzling jewellery and regal pomp and show remain unmatched till date. The collection is a tribute to the last maharajas and our skilled craftsmen.”
“The collection presents rich brocades, silks and velvets, along with delicate chiffons and shimmers, tailored to kalidar ghaghras and Anarkalis. Richly gathered gheras, bandis and blouses are accentuated with dupattas to drape,” he adds.
Designer Archana Kochar too has taken a leaf out of traditional fare for her Summer Bride range. She says, “Ideally a trousseau line should transcend the fashion fad. It should be a treasure of beautiful memories and clothing.”
Designer Rohit Bal too follows the classic course. His latest work titled ‘Kaarigari’ seems like a poem in fabrics, featuring classic cuts and designs. “It represents the modern Indian woman who stands true to her roots, yet lives an international lifestyle and looks glamorous every day,” says the designer.
The line starts with ivory and then moves to darker shades and then on to muted hues. “The motifs range from swirling birds to peacocks and geometric designs; while the knitted and woven creations come seamlessly together some with thread manipulation to form a full garment,” adds Rohit.