A stunning textile revival

Fashion Titbits

Taking the audience on an intricate, exhilarating, mind blowing, journey, ace weave revivalist and textile designer, Gaurang Shah showcased his ‘Samyukta’ collection at Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2015. Inspired by the love story between Prithviraj Chauhan and the strong willed queen Samyukta, the collection was an interesting historical textile story.

Gaurang’s labour of love look eight months as he created the lush fabrics in Surkh red and matched them with timeless embellishments. The 44 piece elaborate collection of bridal wear on 44 top models of India put a strong stamp on Banaras weaves.

To the pulsating beat of Razab Ali Group’s live band and the energetic dance by the two artistes, Akilesh and Apoorva on the stage, the grand bridal collection was unveiled to a wildly applauding audience.

Gaurang revived Kanjeevaram, Khadi, Uppada, Paithani, Benarasi, Patan Patola, Kota Dhakai and added traditional embroidery like zardozi, gotta, doria, Marodi, aari and chikankari.

Proving his love for the colour red in various hues and shades, Gaurang unleashed a glittering magical collection of swirling anarkalis, lehengas and ghagras teamed with kurtis or cholis. He also added ijjars, farshis and Jamdani saris for variety.

Long and short kurtas were stunning in texture and form; while the floor length anarkalis with sexy low backs brought in a hint of fusion. A red tiered lehenga looked arresting with brocade Angarkha blouse; while a Patola maxi skirt worn with a long sleeve lamé gold blouse was the ultimate in style and sophistication.

The Patolas were rich in colour, design and texture and at times teamed with the Banarsi saris the blend was breathtaking. The colour story was restricted to predominantly bridal hues where red and its versions were the mainstay of the collection with mustard, saffron, navy and gold adding to the glamour. Black, white and blue moved in to balance the palette.

For the four groom entries there were stylish jamas, choghas, sadris, achkan, dhotis and anghrakhis. When a bride and groom dream of recreating history, on the most important day of their lives; the ‘Samyukta’ collection by Gaurang Shah will turn it into a reality.