Paying odeto 1970’s era, Sabyasachi opens LFW

Ace designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee explored the magic of power dressing of the 1970s era in his new Resort 2015 line Big Love, setting the stage for a grand 15th year celebration of the Lakmé Fashion Week (LFW) Summer/Resort 2015 on Tuesday night in Mumbai. With high-tech multi laser lights, roving drones, 62 models and 105 outfits at the rustic grounds of Richardson and Cruddas Mills here, Mukherjee opened the celebrations with a spectacular show, attended by Bollywood stars like Deepika Padukone, Farhan Akhtar, Rani Mukerji, Kalki Koechlin, Kajol, Irrfan Khan and Sridevi.

Paying tribute to the 1970s, the designer revisited the era by showcasing it with his distinct signature touches, and by recreating the power dressing period. A dramatic black featured Mukherjee's innovation of the sari teamed with an antique gold embroidered blouse. What followed were pre-stitched draped saris, toga gowns with shimmering hemlines, saris with net extensions and jumpsuits with sheer net capes.

Then there was a sudden burst of blatant shimmer in the form of fully embroidered sequins, crystals and 3D embellishments for minis, shifts, sack dresses, kurtas, gowns and tunics, which were offered in silver, rust or multi-coloured glitzy options. In terms of fabric, Mukherjee moved effortlessly from prints and solids for his selection, which ranged from silk, tulle, crêpe, georgette, to satin and taffeta.

There were also hues of pastel and pale sea green. A solitary white sari with a sequinned choli was also a tribute to the era. His menswear followed the colour story with black kurtas, Bundis and scarves, and then moved into bottle green and brown for Jodhpuri jackets, with a hint of military flavour.

Mukherjee also surprised the gathering with brightly coloured floral printed suits, kurtas, Bandgalas, brocade sherwanis and shimmering red printed versions. Adding to the flavour of the collection, Mukherjee had designed matching wedges, embroidered slip-ons, colourful moccasins, monk sandals, messenger and handbags that were in dual sling or shoulder styles to complement the garments.