Fashion

Lakmé Fashion Week 2024

One of India’s most anticipated fashion events, Lakmé Fashion Week 2024, set the stage for an unforgettable celebration of innovation, craftsmanship, and creativity. This year’s edition brought together a dynamic blend of veteran designers and fresh talent, all with a vision to redefine style for the modern world. With sustainable fashion at the forefront, collections seamlessly fused traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary silhouettes, offering a perfect balance of heritage and innovation.

The runway was a dazzling display of bold structures, flowing fabrics, and intricate details, featuring the work of designers like Payal Pratap, Sameer Madan, and Pawan Sachdeva. Each collection showcased a unique take on current trends, from experimental textures to striking colour palettes, while staying true to each designer’s signature style. This year’s event highlighted the growing focus on sustainability and versatility in fashion, addressing both environmental consciousness and the demand for adaptable, timeless designs. Lakmé Fashion Week 2024 truly captured the spirit of modern Indian fashion, reinforcing its role as a global trendsetter.

Name: Payal Pratap

Collection: The Soft Parade

USP: Payal Pratap blends traditional Indian crafts with contemporary fashion, creating culturally rich, sustainable, and visually captivating designs.

At Lakmé Fashion Week, Payal Pratap unveiled her collection, “The Soft Parade,” drawing inspiration from Kutch’s crafts and cultural heritage. The collection featured a stunning range of 38 ensembles, from chic daywear to intricate festive pieces. Pratap beautifully reinterpreted traditional Kutch crafts into modern, tailored garments through patchwork, appliqué, bandhani, and detailed embroidery. Her use of indigo tones, intricate embellishments, and structured silhouettes highlighted her commitment to sustainable fashion. With motifs like florals, birds, and the Tree of Life, Pratap’s collection celebrated the region’s artisanal richness while maintaining a balance between heritage and contemporary style.

Name: Rosani Notani, Shimona Agarwal, Kriti Greta Singhee and Charmee Ambavat

Collection: Anima and Animus, Hue, Third Space Sustainable Future, and Indigene, respectively

USP: These debutant designers are the GenNext winners, highlighting the superiority of craftsmanship over machines, the revival of traditional weaves, sustainable fashion, nature-driven, and more.

Rohitash Notani showcased his collection Anima & Animus, a bold exploration of the fusion between traditional masculinity and feminine grace. The collection artfully combined utilitarian workwear fabrics with intricate embroideries, reflecting a fluidity that defied conventional boundaries. With boxy volumes paired with delicate floral motifs, Notani highlighted the duality within every individual, merging strength and tenderness in a harmonious design. His radical approach to fashion takes risks, yet through this collection, he successfully celebrates the evolving nature of modern Indian men’s fashion, pushing the boundaries of how they express themselves.

Shimona Agrawal presented her “HUE” collection, a dynamic celebration of handwoven Banarasi silk with a modern twist that is entirely brocade-free. An alumna of NIFT Gandhinagar, Shimona, focused on sustainability, using Indian textiles and techniques to push the boundaries of what Banarasi silk can be. Her collection showcased intricate craftsmanship, creating exclusive textures through an innovative sewing process, crinkling, and meticulous ironing, resulting in a stunning 3D surface. “HUE” captured the timeless elegance of Banarasi silk while offering a fresh, fuss-free interpretation of this traditional fabric.

Charmee Ambavat showcased her collection “Indigene,” drawing inspiration from African tribal cultures. A graduate of NIFT Mumbai, Charmee’s designs are trans-seasonal, focusing on understated, versatile, and classic pieces. The collection reflects her style, blending the raw and primitive aesthetics of African mud houses with vibrant nature-inspired elements. Charmee incorporated a mix of masculine silhouettes softened by feminine nuances, creating a distinct and authentic look. Her designs’ earthy tones and minimalist approach captured the essence of African culture while maintaining a modern, wearable appeal.

Kriti Greta Singhee showcased her “Third Space-Sustainable Future” collection, which focuses on geometric motifs and sustainable fashion. A NIFT Kolkata and Istituto Marangoni graduate, Singhee’s designs featured a fusion of handwoven silks and Bengal cotton silks, reflecting her commitment to eco-friendly materials. The collection stood out for its sculptural silhouettes and innovative approach to textile development. Singhee’s attention to sustainability was evident in the fabric choices and the intricate design process, making her collection a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and forward-thinking fashion. Her work offered a fresh perspective on how fashion can be both sustainable and stylish.

Name: Sameer Madan

Collection: Amore

USP: Sameer Madan’s designs stand out for their bold, structured silhouettes, fearless textures, and a focus on empowered femininity.

Sameer Madan’s latest collection, Amore, showcased at Lakmé Fashion Week, continues his signature exploration of structure and form, inspired by the duality of strength and vulnerability in women. Known as India’s “leather geometrist,” Madan draws from the bold “mob wife” aesthetic, starkly contrasting softer trends like Barbiecore. His designs feature big jewellery, black leather, and bodycon dresses, celebrating the confident, empowered woman. With edgy, unapologetic looks that mix powerful silhouettes and daring textures, Madan brings a fearless approach to fashion, redefining femininity through structured, sophisticated pieces that exude confidence and maturity.

Name: Megha Bansal

Collection: Khwaab – Khawaishyon Ka Shamiyana

USP: Megha Bansal blends traditional Indian crafts with contemporary designs, creating elegant, culturally rich pieces for modern women.

Megha Bansal presented her collection, Khwaab – Khawaishyon Ka Shamiyana, a tribute to Indian artisans and their exquisite craftsmanship. Inspired by the geometric patterns of Mughal jaalis, her designs featured intricate embroidery on luxurious silks, blending tradition with modern fashion sensibilities. Dramatic sleeves and necklines added grandeur to the lehengas, gowns, and saris, perfect for both brides and formal wear buyers. The showstopper, Shilpa Shetty, dazzled in a soft pink lehenga with a sheer, dramatic trail, embodying the ethereal beauty of Pratap’s fusion of traditional and contemporary styles.

Name: Pawan Sachdeva

Collection: Trailblazer

USP: Pawan Sachdeva blends comfort, versatility, and style with premium denim, offering timeless pieces for both men and women.

Pawan Sachdeva unveiled his Trailblazer denim collection, showcasing versatile, comfortable, and meticulously crafted pieces. The collection features a range of styles, including oversized jackets and fitted trousers, designed for both men and women. Each piece is made from premium denim fabric and treated with special washing techniques to ensure a soft, luxurious feel. With a focus on detail, Sachdeva’s collection offers a variety of washes, textures, and colours, providing exceptional comfort and breathability. The Trailblazer collection stands out for its timeless appeal, blending functionality with aesthetic beauty, making it ideal for fashion-conscious individuals looking for enduring style.

October 29, 2024

Varsha Chaturvedi’s Journey of Transformation

In a world where change is often feared, Varsha Chaturvedi embraced transformation with grace, grit, and unshakable determination. Her journey is not just one of personal growth, it is a story of reclaiming identity, defying societal expectations, and inspiring countless others to take control of their lives. Born and raised in a traditional family in Rajasthan, Varsha’s early life followed a path that many women in India are expected to tread: academic excellence, a conventional marriage, and settling into the role of a homemaker. But beneath the quiet rhythm of domestic life, Varsha harbored a restless spirit. She always knew she was meant for more not out of dissatisfaction, but out of an innate desire to explore her full potential. Breaking the Mold It wasn’t an overnight shift. Varsha’s transformation began subtly—through books, self-reflection, and engaging with women’s forums. She became increasingly aware of the silent struggles women endure, particularly in balancing personal dreams with family responsibilities. Rather than resigning, she began asking bold questions: “Why not me?” “What if I tried?” That inner voice led her to step out of her comfort zone and pursue public speaking, health and wellness, and social impact work. But her greatest breakthrough came when she entered the world of pageantry not as a means of glamor, but as a platform for expression and empowerment. The Pageant That Changed Everything In 2022, Varsha registered for a regional beauty pageant under the Mrs. category. It was an unconventional move for a woman who had never imagined herself on stage, in heels, under the spotlight. Yet, it was in that bold step that she discovered a version of herself she hadn’t met before: confident, articulate, and unapologetically ambitious. Though she didn’t win the crown that year, the experience became a turning point. She trained in grooming,

Fashion

From Gym To Brunch: How To Style Skorts For Every Occasion

Modern women, especially nestled in the hustle and bustle of city life, tend to attend different occasions. Be it an early morning workout session, weekend brunch with friends, or accompanying a fitness freak buddy to the gym, Indian women look for clothing that moves as seamlessly as she does. While many choices are available in the market, finding chic and comfortable active wear can be a hassle for many. Thankfully, one stylish essential has been winning hearts for its innovative design and adaptability: the Skort. As the focus on stylish and dynamic dressing is on the rise, finding the best skorts for women has become a smart trend. It combines the beauty of a skirt with the design of shorts that complement its adaptability on every occasion you go. Moreover, it effortlessly helps women transition from regular outings to workouts and get-togethers. In the following blog, let us explore how you can bring out the best for almost every occasion. Why Skorts Are The Ultimate Versatile Apparel? Before we discuss styling inspirations, it is vital to understand why such clothing (skorts) deserves a place in your closet. Interestingly, the average Indian woman is expected to shop approximately 9.3 pieces in 2025. This highlights the growing demand for practical and versatile fashion choices. Moreover, such a trend reflects how modern women are seeking wardrobe staples that easily adapt to their fast-paced lives, and skorts can easily accommodate that evolving preference. Here are some factors that give a clear picture of its versatility: Fashionable activewear blends athletic function with great appeal, allowing you to move freely without feeling self-conscious. Whether you’re stretching in the gym or just reaching for a coffee cup on a busy morning, it keeps you confident and comfortable. One of the most impressive aspects is its inclusive design. With a silhouette

Fashion

7 Summer Fashion Trends that are Dominating 2025

The sun’s blazing, vacations are calling, and the fashion world is already glowing with the season’s freshest energy. Summer 2025 is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation — think throwbacks to the 2000s, a celebration of slow fashion, and a whole lot of personality. We break down the seven standout trends that are shaping the hottest wardrobes right now. Ready to dive in? Pastels are nothing new, but this year, they’re showing up in elevated ways. From silky slip dresses in butter yellow to oversized blazers in cloudy lilac, Pastelcore 2.0 feels both playful and polished. Designers are layering pastels over sheer whites and styling them with sleek, minimalist accessories. It’s the kind of wardrobe that feels like a soft-serve sundae on a hot day — light, dreamy, and just right. Must-haves: Pistachio wrap tops, lilac trousers, butter-yellow mules Deconstructed denim is the anti-basic staple of 2025. We’re talking asymmetric cuts, frayed hems, and multi-tone patchwork. Low-rise jeans are making a controversial comeback (yes, again), but this time with more relaxed fits and artful distressing. Even denim corsets and trench coats are in rotation, proving denim isn’t just casual, its cool couture. Style tip: Pair baggy denim cargos with a satin tank and kitten heels for that grunge-glam finish. Whether or not you’re on a beach, Resortcore says you’re mentally there. Lightweight linens, crochet bikinis doubling as crop tops, breezy co-ords, and oversized straw hats are everywhere. Raffia totes and shell jewellery give this aesthetic that effortlessly wanderlust vibe. What to wear: Linen shorts + halter tops, kaftan dresses, strappy flat sandals One of the most surprising trends this year is the merger of bohemian silhouettes with techwear sensibilities. Smart fabrics that cool you down, UV-sensitive colour shifts, and pocket-heavy flowy fits are giving summer dressing a futuristic upgrade.

Fashion

From Local to Global: The Rise of Indian Streetwear Brands

Streetwear has evolved beyond Western origins, becoming a global movement. In India, homegrown brands are redefining fashion by blending urban aesthetics with cultural heritage. As Indian youth embrace self-expression, streetwear thrives, merging creativity with tradition. ARFAN KHAN JEELANY explores India’s rising streetwear scene and the brands shaping its dynamic evolution. Streetwear has come a long way since its origins in the skate parks and urban landscapes of the West, now becoming a global cultural phenomenon. This movement isn’t restricted to just Western society, however – you may be surprised to learn that there is a rising parallel movement emerging with our very own Indian home-grown brands, redefining the country’s fashion narrative in the process. These brands aren’t merely clothing labels but are cultural expressions, blending more contemporary urban aesthetics with the richness of Indian heritage and tradition. As more Indian youth increasingly seek individuality and self-expression, these brands are thriving in an era that values creativity and authenticity. Let’s look at the history of Indian streetwear as well as a few brands that are defining the genre! The Evolution of Indian Streetwear India’s streetwear scene emerged late but has rapidly gained momentum. While the early 2000s were dominated by fast fashion and traditional wear, the 2010s saw streetwear take off, driven by hip-hop culture and social media’s influence. The shift came when Indian brands began blending local narratives with global streetwear, creating a distinct subculture. The rise of e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Myntra further fuelled its growth, giving brands direct access to their audience. Now, let’s explore the key brands shaping India’s streetwear landscape and defining this evolving fashion movement. SIX5SIX – Avni & Ambar Aneja Image Source: Fashion Design Council of India Founded in 2018 by brother-sister duo Avni and Ambar Aneja, SIX5SIX has quickly become a cornerstone