Designer Purushu - Indian Fashion Blogger

Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012 - Complete Overview

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 01:55:00 +0000

>>CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO READ IN DETAIL<<

5 'HAUTE' MOMENTS FROM WIFW AW 2012-13

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 01:05:00 +0000

Five 'HAUTE' moments from Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week autumn/winter 2012-13

HAUTE MOMENT 1: The 'epic' print at Kallol Dutta's show reading 'THIS IS NOT A GARMENT' !!!!!

HAUTE MOMENT 2: The pretty fuchsia hearts seen at Pero by Aneeth Arora

HAUTE MOMENT 3: Tinu Verghese clad in actual screw, nuts and bolts at Anand Bhushan AW 2012-13!

HAUTE MOMENT 4: Tokyo Fashion Week here in India on day 4 at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.

HAUTE MOMENT 5: Rohit Bal walking for JJ Valaya on the grand finale!

Best of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week autumn/winter 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 22:16:00 +0000

ABRAHAM & THAKORE - The garments at Abraham & Thakore were very wearable. Modern silhouettes were fused with some exceptional surface techniques inspired from the 'Kuchch" region. I personally loved the contemporary take on mirror work in the outfits.

ANAND BHUSHAN - The show witnessed some of the best surfaces this season. Probably Rimzim Dadu's line is the only other collection that can match up to Anand Bhushan. The junkyard inspired embellishments were simply exceptional at Anand Bhushan autumn/winter 2012 show. Anand Bhushan’s models were ‘robots’ moulded out of rusted metal, scrap parts and micro components of machinery sourced from a junkyard!!

ANJU MODI - Age old cultural dressing was passionately transformed into contemporary fashion here at Anju Modi AW 2012. The fashion designer drew inspiration from Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan to create an ultra-feminine nomadic look in earthy hues of ivory, grey, charcoal and red.
Use of red was a master stroke to break an otherwise muted grey/black/ivory ensemble.

ANREALAGE - The visual effects of pixelated 2-D images were beautifully transformed into 3-D garments that looked highly graphical and modern. In a digital era where people are obsessed with sharpness and clarity of the imageries, ANREALAGE’s garments were pixelated and unpredictable yet highly detailed and focused.
The pixel effects were created through prints, mosaic work and fabric strips woven together. The play of angular cuts, pixelation and the unpredictability is commendable!

MEERA ALI - The utility chic look gets a sexy makeover at Meera Ali. Extremely wearable and comfortable separates catering to modern day needs. Loved the silhouettes, especially the pegged trousers. The collection is highly practical.

PERO by ANEETH ARORA - The ‘Pero’ show was a master class and tells you how exactly to layer together scrumptious fabrics and textures in style. Patch work was extensively used in jackets and wide-leg trousers. Knitted sweaters had a quirky heart in fuchsia at the back. Baby doll silhouettes, jackets and trousers featured polka dots, graphical checks and stripes which continue to rule the ‘Pero’ ramp for quite some time now.
Another important aspect of Aneeth Arora's show was the relevance to the season! While almost every other designers were busy showcasing resort-ish collections dominated by chiffons, crepe and cotton, Aneeth Arora used woolen knits! Pero was the first show in WIFW AW 2012 to feature woolen knits!!!!

RAHUL MISHRA - The fashion designer drew inspiration from sportswear to create sophisticated yet peppy ensembles in hand woven fabrics. A steady backdrop of warm and cool neutrals counterbalances brighter pastel shades. The garments are constructed using seamless patterns resulting in Rahul Mishra’s signature strong cuts, yet encompassing an uncomplicated look. I also love the way Rahul Mishra plays with lines and panels!

RIMZIM DADU - You cannot help but drool over the surfaces at Rimzim Dadu's show. Rimzim Dadu’s forte lies recreating the couture tradition through sleek and edgy silhouettes combined with wild and quirky surface treatment. Fast-forward ageing process was explored through techniques such as dyeing, burning and staining. Micro components like wires, yarns and sequins were individually treated before constructing an overall surface, making every piece unique – something that will pass on for generations.

SOLTEE by SULAKSHANA - The show featured the best of Indo-Western clothing. Traditional silhouettes were juxtaposed with a hint of futurism. The surfaces were simply delicious and feminine at Sulakshana's show.

TARUN TAHILIANI - Almost 90% of the shows in WIFW AW 2012-13 season featured ethnic collection and Tarun Tahiliani's ethnic collection is the undisputed winner! He is INCREDIBLE!

So, that's my top 10 picks from Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week autumn/winter 2012-13. Dare to choose ONE if you can!!

Day 5 at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 21:04:00 +0000

#I am asked to remove a certain content from my blog since it criticizes a few designers. When I see a good show, I appreciate it. When I see a bad one... I trash it! I may not be politically correct. But I am brutally honest.

#There are so many fashion editors and bloggers who trash designs at the show and later lick the designer's ass! I believe that the designer should know what went wrong, at least so that he/she won't repeat it again!!! There is not point in back bitching and later acting all sweet and love-struck on the face!

#There were two shows I really really loved. SOLTEE by Sulakshana and Meera Ali!

#Sulakshana's ethnic was actual INDO-WESTERN stuff!

#Meera Ali was few of the only designers who were relevant and practical! Beautiful separates that would sell like pan cakes. I loved them!!

#Didn't attend the finale as I had to head back home soon to celebrate my girlfriend's birthday!!!

For second day on a row, Hindustan Times City edition featured my tweet in their twitterati section. This time, the tweet was about Rehane's show.

Day 4 at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Autumn/Winter 2012-13

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 23:42:00 +0000

#My favourite for the day: ANREALAGE and Rahul Mishra.

#Missed the morning shows

#The seminar by Kenya Hara was too long! But had interesting content in respect to design.

#The Japanese show was amazing! Loved Anrealage especially!

#Rahul Mishra was fabulous. Played with simple, sophisticated silhouettes in black. Loved the way he played with lines.

#Day 4 was a day of RIDICULOUS FITTING!

#Side seams were puckered and cups were jetting out at Monapali

#ROcky S was most awaited show. But was disappointed :|

#This is probably the first time Rocky S didn't use black.

#The fabrics looked like they were sourced from Govindpuri! Sasta. Ganda!

#What's even disappointing is that the construction went bad! Blouse fit was bad! real bad! #Lots of ease in blouses at Rocky S. You can further make another 1" dart in them!!

#Bipasha looked gorgeous in spite of the weirdo cherry-red lipstick. R Madhavan looked as charming as ever :)

#Payal Jain's garments were urban and commercial too, but the stylist spoilt her party! GOLDEN RULE - You don't wear animal prints head to toe. I wish Payal Jain's stylist knew that!!

#Sanchita's faux fur looked cheap!

#What's funny is that models walked in light weight chiffon and crepe on a backdrop of artificial snowfall!!!! LOL xD They call is 'AUTUMN-WINTER'

Read the full review of ANREALAGE autumn/winter 2012 here.

Read the full review of Rahul Mishra autumn/winter 2012 here.

So, this particular TWEET was featured in Hindustan Times City edition on 20th February 2012. Do take a look at the other tweets on Day 4 at WIFW AW 2012.

Rahul Mishra - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012-13

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:38:00 +0000

This show is my favourite for the day 4 at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week!!

Rahul Mishra’s autumn/winter 2012 collection is an exciting experiment with combination of similar opposites in terms of yarn and fabric structure. The fashion designer drew inspiration from sportswear to create sophisticated yet peppy ensembles in hand woven fabrics primarily consisting of silk, merino wool, chanderi, chiffons and jersey. A steady backdrop of warm and cool neutrals counterbalances brighter pastel shades. The garments are constructed using seamless patterns resulting in Rahul Mishra’s signature strong cuts, yet encompassing an uncomplicated look.

The first sequence of outfits was primarily in black with a sensational play of lines and panels – which remains Rahul Misra’s forte. Seam lines were highlighted in neon and electric details in dresses, tunics, saris and jumpsuits. Asymmetry was a very salient design element in Rahul Mishra’s garments which continued to prevail in almost every other ensemble throughout the show.

The latter half of the garments shimmered and dazzled in gold. While the silhouettes of Rahul Mishra of essentially modern and contemporary the true soul were completely rested in the traditional multi-coloured jagalbandi border, jersey details, crochet, hand embroidery.

Full length garments in shades of mulberry pink, teal and blue finished the show for Rahul Mishra who was received by a thunderous round of applause as he took a bow!

Play of lines and panels at Rahul Mishra autumn/winter 2012-13

ANREALAGE - Tokyo Fashion Week in WIFW AW 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:16:00 +0000

The Tokyo Fashion Week in Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week autumn/winter 2012-13 kick-started on a digital note with ANREALAGE showcasing a collection inspired from the beauty of low resolution imageries. The visual effects of pixelated 2-D images were beautifully transformed into 3-D garments that looked highly graphical and modern. In a digital era where people are obsessed with sharpness and clarity of the imageries, ANREALAGE’s garments were pixelated and unpredictable yet highly detailed and focused.

Models were styled with pixelated eye gears as they walked in comfortable and highly practical garments. Patterns and shapes of the clothing were pixelated and transformed into abstract cubic elements where patchwork squares were used to create floral and camouflaged patterns. The cube elements in the garment take you on a visual journey where details appear blurred and unpredictable from a closer look and becomes lucid and clear from a distance.

The show opened with a series of digitally printed garments in subdued pastel colours were styled with pixelated stockings. The pixels later transformed from prints to adept weaves in bold colours. Hems and the notch collar details had angular cuts. The elegantly draped garments looked delicate and added a feminine flavour to the collection which is unique and one of a kind!

Pixels as prints.

Love the angular cuts on the notch collar and hems!! Simple yet bold detailing.

Pixels created using mosaic work.

Weaving! It takes immense patience and skill to create something like this by weaving strips of fabric!! Hatss-offfffff!

Day 3 - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:06:00 +0000

#Too many shows. My favourites were Anand Bhushan, Kallol Dutta and Rimzim Dadu

#Among the first 5 shows, Bhanuni by Jyoti Sharma created an impact in a mystic colour palette of reds and black. Others were all anarkalis and kalidars with brocades. Bored of seeing them all over for a 3rd continuous day now.

# Anand Bhushan's models were robots moulded from junkyard.

#Anand Bhushan's garments had amazing surface treatment. One of them actually carried nuts and bolts.

# What's best about Anand's show is that the garments were techno yet edgy and sexy!

#Kallol Datta's silhouettes looked amazing in a charcoal colour palette.

#Rimzim Dadu brought back the industry goth look.

#Every sequins were individually dyed and treated before they were put together to form a surface here at Rimzim Dadu's show!!!! STUPENDOUS CRAFTSMANSHIP!

#Her last ensemble (the plastic mould) some how reminds me of Manish Arora's plastic mould garments at Paco Rabbane #The special show for PETA was attended by Vivek Oberoi and Leander Paes.

#Didn't watch Pankaj & Nidhi

#What I loved the most about Abraham & Thakore was the contemporary take on mirror embroidery work of Kutch.

#Manish Malhotra's front row was star studded. I met the gorgeous Urmila who is still in shape in spite of age.

#Manish Malhotra is more into Kashmiri work these days. From a commercial point of view, you don't have an option but to focus on ethnic.

#Kangna Ranaut walked in really late as Mr. Sethi guided her to the front row. She looked gorgeous in Manish's creation. People kept guessing till the end if she would walk the ramp. Nope she didn't.

#I don't remember the name of the fat actress who was sitting next to Kangna though.

#The industry goth and the boho-gypsy looks seem to be the biggest trends that have emerged so far in the fashion week. #roomy culottes are the most popular silhouettes. #Metallic shades of gold, bronze are really popular! #Red is another colour which is HOT this season!

Read the full show reviews of Anand Bhushan and Rimzim Dadu.

Rimzim Dadu - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:11:00 +0000

Rimzim Dadu for her autumn/winter 2012 collection, brought the ‘industry chic look’ back to fashion with her signature urban warrior ensemble. Rimzim Dadu’s forte lies recreating the couture tradition through sleek and edgy silhouettes combined with wild and quirky surface treatment. Fast-forward ageing process was explored through techniques such as dyeing, burning and staining. Micro components like wires, yarns and sequins were individually treated before constructing an overall surface, making every piece unique – something that will pass on for generations.

The show started with a burnt metallic off-shoulder dress followed by a metallic skirt teamed with a zari top in similar tone. Black fitted trousers were paired with rust dye tops, gold plated and fins jacket. Sequins were individually dyed using tie and dye technique. The final garment, a 3-D metallic plate dress was proficiently constructed with bold zipper details in side-seam. Metallic loops, plates, cutout sheath, plastic plate and burnt colours remained a very integral part of the collection which is high on metal, industry and futurism.

Anand Bhushan - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:11:00 +0000

Just minute before the fashion show started, fashion designer Anand Bhushan walked up to the media seats and told us, "Guys... Feel free to hoot xD". His fresh and young thoughts were very much reflected in his outfits too! Without any doubt.. It was one of the most memorable show on day 3 at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.

Anand Bhushan’s models were ‘robots’ moulded out of rusted metal, scrap parts and micro components of machinery sourced from a junkyard. Tinu Verghese opened for Anand Bhushan autumn/winter 2012 in a heavily embellished grey metallic ensemble which was followed by a series of jackets, fitted dresses and tops teamed with cigarette fit trousers in metallic steel.

Body hugging silhouettes were replaced by fluid drapes in satin with edgy metallic waist belt made of metal scraps. Gentle pleats and tucks were pristinely tailored in fluid chiffon drapes. The models here at Anand Bhushan adorned garments that appeared to be moulds or casts. Pencil fit skirts, cape sleeves, armour like attachments were styled with chunky bracelets. A full length gown in charcoal was heavily padded with graphical checks and a long trail. An armour dress in grey which was completely constructed of scrape nuts, bolts and screws, received a thunderous round of applause from the audience who were awestruck by Anand’s creativity.

Anand’s silhouettes were strong and powerful while the metallic embellishments added the glam and glitz.

Tinu opens for Anand Bhushan in an embellished grey dress.

Anand Bhushan's garments were high on surface. Modern, sexy and highly wearable too!

The armour like thing in Tinu's outfit was constructed of scrape nuts, bolts and screws!!!

Pero by Aneeth Arora, Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:23:00 +0000

Aneeth Arora’s autumn/winter 2012 woman is a gypsy who is on a journey throughout India. The designer has mastered the art of creating the boho-rich gypsy look. There are very few fashion designers in India who can do it the way she does.

Another important aspect of Aneeth Arora's show was the relevance to the season! While almost every other designers were busy showcasing resort-ish collections dominated by chiffons, crepe and cotton, Aneeth Arora used woolen knits! Pero was the first show in WIFW AW 2012 to feature woolen knits!!!!

Models styled with turbans, knitted skull caps and leather shoes carrying fuchsia heart walked to foot-tapping old country music. The luggage was beautifully used as accessories with the layered ensemble. Exquisite kadhis from West Bengal, ikkat from Andhra Pradesh, pashminas from Kashmir and woven wool from Kumaon were cleverly crafted into comfortable and breezy silhouettes in a muted colour palette dominated by blues. Layering is Aneeth Arora’s one of the biggest forte.

The ‘Pero’ show was a master class and tells you how exactly to layer together scrumptious fabrics and textures in style. Patch work was extensively used in jackets and wide-leg trousers. Knitted sweaters had a quirky heart in fuchsia at the back. Baby doll silhouettes, jackets and trousers featured polka dots, graphical checks and stripes which continue to rule the ‘Pero’ ramp for quite some time now.

Carl Garcias styled in skull cap, scarf, luggage and shoes with fuchsia heart! A BOHO-GYPSY!

Patchwork at Pero by Aneeth Arora

Luggage as an accessory!

One of the very few shows which featured Woolen knits!

Shoes carrying fuchsia hearts!

The day you decide to run away from home and find need to be in style, call Aneeth Arora!

Day 2: Willls Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 21:23:00 +0000

CLICK HERE FOR ANAIKKA BY KANIKA SALUJA

READ THE FULL REVIEW OF PERO BY ANEETH ARORA AW 2012 HERE.

Another COPYCAT? Anaikka by Kanika Saluja similar to Gareth Pugh?

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:05:00 +0000

ANAIKKA by Kanika Saluja received several accolades yesterday here at day 2 in Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week. Kanika's press release that read "metal chic with industrial goth. Anaikka borrows a lot from men’s wardrobe in terms of fabrics for the jackets and outerwear" hinted on the powerful architectural silhouettes. But only when the show started did we realize we had an Indianized version of Gareth Pugh on the ramp.

1. COLOUR PALETTE WAS MONOTONUS. SOMETHING GARETH PUGH HAVE BEEN DOING FOR YEARS NOW.

2. THE ENTIRE FUTURISTIC GOTH AND LEATHER RELIEF IS GARETH PUGH'S SIGNATURE STYLE.

3. THE LEATHER WATERFALL JACKETS HAD SIMILAR SURFACE TREATMENT.

4. KANIKA SALUJA'S MODELS LATER WENT ON TO ADORN ABUNDANCE OF EMBELLISHMENTS. THAT AGAIN CAN BE COMPARED TO GARETH PUGH'S ENSEMBLE ONLY THAT KANIKA'S SILHOUETTES NOW HAD A DESI TWIST.

Day 1: Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:53:00 +0000

The Japanese connection

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:31:00 +0000

I had very recently talked about how certain Indian and British fashion designer share similar aesthetic sensibilities in the blogpost 'British connection in Indian runway'. If India and Brits derive the connection from the 'colonial rule', Japan and India have this 'EASTERN-BONDING'. We share a similar fashion calendar. On the wake of the tragic earthquake last year, Japanese fashion designers showed in India. The loose socks. Lolita sub-culture. The Japanese goth. Japan's street fashion has taken the world by storm, which has hit India too. India's own 'Galliano; Manish Arora is highly inspired from Japanese silhouettes. On second thoughts, most of his models are Japanese. (Aren't they?). The designer duo Nidhi and Divya Gambhir of Waulnut represented India in Tokyo recently. I am myself highly inspired from Japanese culture. Remember the Geisha theme I was working on a few semesters back?

Hmm.. THE GRAPE VINE IS THAT...

FDCI has tied up with the Japan Fashion Week Organization to present for the first time in India “Tokyo Fashion Week ” at WIFW 2012. Supported by the Ministry of Economic Trade and Industry, Japan, the event will be a unique cultural exchange between the two countries and a rare opportunity for the Indian fashion fraternity to view up-close the fashion finesse of Japan. The association also marks the 60th anniversary celebration project of diplomatic relations between India and Japan.

Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week 2012 will witness a joint fashion show by three designers brands from Japan - “ANREALAGE,” “mintdesigns” and “suzuki takayuki”. A special delegation from Japan will also be present at WIFW to view Indian designs on the ramp. In addition to the show, products and philosophies of 10 brands representing “10 Faces of the Tokyo Culture” will be on display at the WIFW.

Announcing the collaboration, Sunil Sethi, President, FDCI, said, “Bringing this event to India is a path-breaking initiative to promote cross-cultural relations between the two countries. This year will be a milestone in the history of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, when, for the first time ever, Indian and Japanese fashion will converge under one roof.”

Well. That means, we can look forward to see garments like:

ANREALAGE

MINTDESIGN

SUZUKI TAKAYUKI

The British flavour in India

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 07:36:00 +0000

London has a vast costume history dating back to the Elizabethan and Victorian era. Major changes happened in mid-60s when Beatles became a worldwide phenomenon and London sprang was back into the fashion scenario at a time when Paris, America and Milan had already made it big with icons like Christian Dior or Christobal Balenciaga to boast about.

I am a London loyalist if asked to choose between the four fashion capitals. I love the British fashion sensibilities. My biggest fashion idol, Lee Alexander McQueen belonged to London. The legendary John Galliano is British. Godmother of fashion industry, Anna Wintour is British born. Kate Moss. Iconic Vivienne Westwood. I probably don't have to give any more explanation on why London inspires me as a fashion design student.

ICONIC LANDMARKS IN BRITISH FASHION:

May be since English people ruled us for over two centuries, I being in India, can still feel the remains of what the British had left back. The structures in Chennai continues to have strong British sensibilities. Kolkata is still typically British. Mumbai is Mumbai today because British people were there. Right from the nation's culture to the politics... we have a strong British influence.

Fashion is no less.

HERE IS A COMPARISON OF MY FAVOURITE FASHION DESIGNERS FROM LONDON & INDIA, IN TERMS OF THEIR DESIGN SENSIBILITIES

WIFW AW 2012 Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:36:00 +0000

FDCI announces the show schedule for Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn-Winter 2012

Designer duo Shantanu & Nikhil to open for WIFW 2012

The Fashion Design Council of India has announced the show schedule for the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn-Winter 2012.The 19th edition of WIFW will kick off on Wednesday, February 15th with 138 designers featuring splendid creations. Shantanu & Nikhil, a label synonymous with luxury and known for elegance and sophistication will take centre stage as the curtains go up for Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autum-Winter 2012.

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UPDATED EVEN SCHEDULE
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(Open the images in a new tab for a larger view)

Milan Fashion Week –Menswear Fall Winter 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 04:46:00 +0000

Author: Sylefluid Trendz

Milan Fashion Week for Fall Winter 2012 Menswear was definitely a trend setter in many ways. Milan was a revival of classic, military and luxurious fashion with a strong essence of Edwardian era in the world of men’s fashion . In a way or other, Milan Fashion Week sent a strong message to all the boys that Fall Winter 2012 is all about celebrating the gentlemen in you.Here is a pick on some of my favourites from the week.

1. Dolce & Gabbana – The collection was just the right example of luxury. One could see a strong influence of traditional East European & Matador style embroidery on coats and jackets.The sleek lines and classic masculine tailoring with gold embellishments on the sleeves and lapels were dramatic, stylish and truly classic.

2. Bottega Veneta – Tomas Maier opted for geometry in his silhouettes for Fall Winter 2012 collection.The clothes are a fine example of contrast and compliments male body to the fullest.Some of the key pieces of the collection were short jackets that can make any men look taller, skinny trousers that extends the legs,sports jackets and leather coats.The collection in innovative fabrics also played around with color blocking. Indeed a ultraluxurious collection .

3. Burberry Prorsum – With its entourage of fitted suits,heritage trench,mustard-tipped trenches, two and three button wool suits,sleek double breasted jackets, quilted army green flight jacket, black polka-dotted tie, with herringbone patterned tweed cap, Burberry Signature Navajo-inspired patterns, owl and cat-face bundle-necked knitwear and with fabrics ranging from corduroy to velvet, the collection was an amazing fusion of heritage and contemporary British fashion. The show was rightly named as “The Gentlemen”

4. Roberto Cavalli – Go bold go adventerous and bring out the animal instinct – Yes that is the Style Mantra from Roberto Cavalli for Fall Winter 2012 Menswear.The collection had animal prints from spot to tiger-stripe,bright colors for winter,bold prints, leather moto jackets, stark-white contrast piping, velvet smoking blazer with croc pattern,snake skin belts and shawl collared suit. Indeed a very smart collection which brings out the modern and timeless elegance of men’s fashion.

5. Prada – The military-inspred collection was presented by real A listed actors, which was dramatic,powerful, eccentric , mysterious with a strong element of old-school masculine feel to it. The collection featured long,black overcoat,double breasted red overcoat with a black velvet collar and fur trimmed lapel,high stiff collar on white shirt and wire trimmed sunglasses.All in all the collection featured strong masculine silhouettes and hardlines.

6. Ermenegildo Zegna – Zegna went classic for Fall Winter 2012 with good amount of layering. The collection featured houndstooth ,Glen plaid,Fair Isle suits which were worn under layers of loosely cut capes and jackets. The colors of the collection were in midnight blue,camel and brown with lot of texture.One could also see cotton turtlenecks, plaid-lined denims which were worn with suits and silky tuxedos.The other key items of the collection were carry-ons clad in plaid,large, flat leather messenger bags , duffels and textured gloves.

7. Canali - The collection had a strong feel of The Swinging Sixties.With its sharp Italian tailoring the prints on suits,shirts,pants were inspired from William Morris house of design. The key pieces of the collection were - floral-print shirting, Chesterfield coats, double-breasted houndstooth and Bengal striped pieces with a color palette of browns,tans and rusts.

8. Salvatore Ferragamo – The collection from the House of Salvatore Ferragamo was in neutral tones and the clothes had its own unique sober personality. Massimiliano Giornetti’s collection for Salvatore Ferragamo Men's Fall 2012 was all about elegance. The key pieces of the collection were suits and coats which had sharp tailoring , double breasted blazer, fine mauve and purple striped sweater ,royal blue shirt, polished two-tone dress shoes with equestrian details, double-breasted suit with peak lapels and a burgundy bomber jacket with an oversize knit collar. The fabric varied from velvet,wool,tweeds in salt and pepper to watery silk.The dominant colors of the collection were royal blue,charcoal asphalt, rusts, burgundy, purple, gray and berry tones.The collection is perfect for all you stylish city slicker.

9. Diesel Black Gold - A rocker chic collection. The key pieces of the collection were slick motorcycle jackets, suede bomber jackets,bold red velvet double-breasted suit,zipped suede vests,leather pants,pea-coats,coated knit intarsia,fur coat,thick cable knit jerseys, bravura jacket and knitted sweater in two tone.The collection was dominated by black with surprising dash of colors like deep blue,indigo,grey,burnt orange,navy,denim blue and purple.Orange leather jacket created the ultimate rocking look.

10. DSquared2 – A rebellious collection. I loved the fitted skinny jeans, short leather jackets, ultra sharp coats ,knotted neck scarf ,cropped jackets, Alpine Winter sweaters , gray tuxedos, sweater vests, schoolboy brooches on tweed jackets and oversized sequined sleeve parka. It is always good to keep the rebel in us alive.

11. Gucci - Frida Giannini’s collection for Gucci Menswear Fall 2012 had a strong 60’s feel to it. The collection was romantic, contemporary , elegant and just outstandingly handsome.The main features of the collection were flower prints,jacquards,velvets ,overcoats,trousers which were loose at the hips but goes skinny down the leg and to the ankle,chunky sweater .One can’t miss out on the briefcases with the horn handles,carpetbags ,sunglasses and shoes. Gucci boy for Fall 2012 is ultra chic and creative.

12. Calvin Klein –For me the collection by Italo Zucchelli was a redefination of perfect masculine sportswear. With a color palete of grey,black,navy and camel the collection was a perfect fusion of sportswear,luxury and classic fashion.The sleek collection’s key features were contrast paneling,color blocking, croc print pants,jumpers and jackets. Croc Print Pants – Yes,that is one must have key item for all you stylish men.

Milan Fashion Week for Fall Winter 2012 was a mirror to what a modern man should be. The collections was a reinterpration of classic fashion with a twist of contemporary touch to it.Inspite of the global economic lull, the Fall Winter 2012 collection was a celebration of positivity in life,celebration of luxury and elegance. Definitely a positive way to kick start the year,

IFB Links la Mode : Check out the best 20 fashion posts of the week!

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:06:00 +0000

Making a Connection

Edited by: Fajr Muhammad of Stylish Thought

Can you believe that it’s almost February. Fashion week is right around the corner and that means that the IFB Conference is right upon us. The IFB Conference has opened so many doors and channels for fashion bloggers to connect and expand their *ahem* influence. Fashion week is another great avenue to network and work with brands, the media and other bloggers. In our fast-paced digital (and fashion) worlds, connection is key.

Check out this week’s Link a la Mode and connect with our 20 selected bloggers. Read their post, comment and build relationships that will last past fashion week and beyond.

SPONSOR:
Shoes at Shopbop: Frye Shoes, Yosi Samra Flats, See by Chloe Shoes, Tapeet, Ash Sneakers, Sam Edelman Sandals, Steven, Wang Shoes, Pelle Moda, Vanessa Mooney, Loeffler Randall, Dolce Vita Shoes & Hunter Boots

PLEASE READ IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE
If you would like to submit your link for next week’s Links à la Mode, please register first, then post your links HERE. The HTML code for this week will be found in the Links a la Mode group will be published later today. ~Jennine

A fashion designer's workshop : FACTS & FICTION

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:24:00 +0000

Try googling "Fashion deisgner workshop" and the images that you see is exactly how a fashion designer's workshop will NOT look like. The ambiance in the visuals are highly tampered with. They are arranged and customized for photographs.

A day in a fashion-design student's life:

1. The sound of sewing machine stitching fabric is more pleasant to hear than old faculty yelling at the front table.

2. The smell of muslin overpowers your new CK perfume.

3. You enjoy the heat that a steam iron produces, especially in winters.

4. For at least once in a day, a pin is bound to pierce your nail. You are so used to it that you simply wipe it off a muslin. First timers give TT injection a thought though!

5. A designer's workshop is more like a dustbin. You have fabric strips, pattern making papers, pencils, measuring tape and a lot more hazardous stuff including scissors and pins lying all around (Underage kids are strictly prohibited from entering a designer's workshop).

6. Body forms! They always tend to stand in your way. Some of you might also constantly punch and poke your body form (with pins) to take out your frustration.

7. "Hey! Can I borrow your scissor?" And mind you, you are never getting them back! As is the case with the endless pile of stationery you end up buying and eventually losing.

8. All your hand bags and mobile phones lie on the pattern making table. Heaven for Kleptomaniacs!

9. They style tape you put on the body form 2 months ago, still lies there... untouched.

10. The bulletin board is filled with patterns, inspirational visuals and out dated trend-boards.

11. Even if the world is about to end, all you do is religiously drape your garment.

12. Boys, you are a minority here, girls outnumber you. Go feminism!!

13. MUSIC. Head phones. A good playlist. You need it to survive all that is mentioned above.

SUPPORTING VISUALS:

TREND REPORT - SPRING/SUMMER 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:37:00 +0000

Summer 2012, A Season of Commitment

Faced with multiple "crises" of all types and of all times – social, economic, ecological. The human being has always had the formidable capacity of resisting, on one hand, and committing, on the other. Commitment is a marvelous force, rooted in the deepest part of the self, where conviction and our sense of responsibility draw upon the strengths and legitimacy of belonging to a group. Summer 2012 is a season under the sign of Commitment, as four themes illustrate this positive movement of individual and collective involvement.

STORY BOARD FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2012

	GENESIS - The Naturalist Visionaries The enormous focus on ecology is inciting designers of objects and garments alike to address the importance and richness of the organic world. A creative orientation that invites us to re-discover the foundations of Naturalism.

ITINERANCE - The Humanitarian Artisans Today’s economic crisis is generating an overall increase in the insecurity of humans, which in turn, engages designers to create innovative products taking into account the limited resources of peoples in difficulty. Itinerance explores humanitarian design as it strives to maximise the limited capacities for economic and stylistic adaptation inspired by nomadic lifestyles.

POLYCHROMY - The Colour Expressionists The public’s enthusiasm for cutting-edge developments in vision and perception (LED technology, 3-D imagery, heat-sensitive materials, etc.) is urging fashion and interior designers to develop new, increasingly high-impact visual principles.

	OXYGEN - The Emotional Purists The growing awareness of the world in light of the multiplication of health threats is stimulating the design of reassuring objects that may also contribute to improving the overall health of users. Oxygen explores the notions of purity and well-being that are giving rise to a trend for design that is simultaneously romantic and clinical.

COLOURS: PASTELS AND NATURALS

A spread of pastels associated with two, very soft naturals. A desire to accumulate and collect moments of innocence - like we might compose a wardrobe of wild and crazy layers in candid shades of colours. Baby blue and pink break free of their stereotypes!

FROM SS 2012 RUNWAY:

SURFACES:

The season that is being forwarded by naturalism has witnessed plenty of surface treatment in the forms of prints, laser cut work, applique, shine, shimmer and glitz.

PRINTS:
Key concept in prints were graphic, nature inspired animal, fruits and floral, paisley and graphic. While florals were seen at every third show this season, the ones seen at Christopher Kane, Giambattista Valli and Prada stood out in distinction. Animal prints were seen at Carolina Herrera and Manish Arora. Nature inspired paisley decorated the fabrics at Stella McCartney, Haider Ackermann, Jil Sander and JW Anderson. Mary Katrantzou's show was in fact a colourful riot of animal and aquatic inspired prints.

BELOW:
1. Parrots at Carolina Herrera
2. Florals at Chloe
3. Delicous fruits and vegetables at Dolce & Gabbana
4. Donna Karan's tribe
5. Graphic prints at Yves Saint Laurent
6. Paisley motifs seen at Haider Ackermann, Jil Sander, JW Anderson and Stella McCartney.

APPLIQUE WORK:
Fashion designers chose to deliciously decorate the surface using applique work. Applique surface details were seen in many shows this season including those of Christopher Kane, Dolce & Gabbana, Nicole Farhi, Prada and Valentino.

NEAT, CLEAN AND CUT!
Pristine white cottons were laser cut keeping everything minimalistic yet highly interesting.

SHINE, GLITZ & GLAMOUR:
The models at Chanel, Manish Arora, Chanel, Christopher Kane, Marc Jacobs, MaxMara and Reed Krakoff were adorned in shine and shimmer.

SILHOUETTES:

Spring/Summer 2012 has predominantly witnessed inspiration from various decades of the 20th century. Silhouettes from the 20s art-deco and 50s dominated the ramps. Dolce & Gabbana and Emilio Pucci pioneered in exposing the mid-riff like never before. Moving ahead from the lady-like dressing, sports inspired chic look has emerged as one of the biggest trends this season.

50S INSPIRED: Phoebe Philo's peplums and Dries Van Noten's sculptural silhouettes were clearly recalling the 1950s fashion era. 50s silhouettes were seen at likes of Gareth Pugh, Burberry, Carven, Donna Karan, Rick Owens and Meadham Kirchhkoff.

ART DECO: Electric form of elegant and stylish modernism flourished at Alberta Ferretti, Etro, Prada, Marchesa and Ralph Lauren.

FLASH THE ABS: Mid riffs exposed at Dolce & Gabbana, Emilio Pucci, Prada, Christopher Kane, Versace etc.

SPORTSTAR: Outerwear with a sporty spin!

IMAGE COURTESY:
Story board images: PROMOSTYL
Runway images: VOGUE.CO.UK

THE FOLLOWING POST IS ALSO A GUEST POST I HAD WRITTEN FOR INDIAN FASHION BLOGGERS COMMUNITY.

FASHION, Jackets, Corsets and Trousers

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 21:28:00 +0000

NOTE: Understanding 'Fashion' and 'Design' are two different things.

FACT: I study in a fashion college. The college teaches me everything a fashion designer needs to learn. Garment construction. Draping. Surface Design. Fashion Illustration. The college teaches it all. Some how, the college never teaches you "FASHION".

I was chatting with a fellow fashion blogger (Stylefluid Trendz: He is a facebook fashion blogger who regularly posts amazing visuals related to fashion) few minutes ago and he was explaining me how it was the worst decision in his life to not choose to study in a fashion college.

In my college, every year 30 students pass out from the fashion design department. They are expert pattern makers and have a flair for fashion illustrations. But very few students pass out with an understanding of fashion. Those who pass out with an understanding of fashion are the same people who entered the college with an understanding! I believe that fashion is something personal and you don't need a faculty/professor to dictate you fashion is about. The understanding comes from within. The the curiosity for trends, the love for brands, the thirst for being updated, the aesthetic sense... it comes from within. It's in your lifestyle. It's in the books that you read, the websites that you surf, the places you go, the blogs you read.

Most students in my batch are not really sure if brights are still in trend, but the blogger I chatted with (Stylefluid Trendz) knows what Dolce & Gabbana AW12 menswear show was about. The show was live only few hours ago! He tells me, "fashion has been always thr with me..even when i was growing up...it was just thr..and it still amazes me..how in the hell i knew about fashion houses,labels.designers..".

Most fashion design students across the globe have amazing sense of 'design'. There are many students who create jaw-droppingly creative designs. They know it all. They have master draping skills. They create amazing surfaces and yet are clueless when you ask them about the designers who used paisley motifs in their recent collection!

There is a reason why I discuss 'DESIGN' with my classmates but 'FASHION' with bloggers! Bloggers know it better =)) We share knowledge through our blogposts. I take the joy of being both a 'fashion design student' and a 'fashion blogger'!

I originally started writing this blogpost to recall the times that just flew away few months ago, before it got influenced by a chat conversation. Like I mentioned in my previous blogpost, I have passed semester five and I am now in semester 6!
In my very first Integrated Term Project, we made bodice & skirt, and a dress in the latter one. Take a look at what we created for the integrated term project this semester to get ourselves landed in a new semester...

.... JACKETS, CORSETS AND TROUSERS!

My Creation: The mustard jacket was inspired from impossible figures, with an interesting overlap buttons and a similar back. It is teamed with a trouser which has an apple peel pattern, i.e., a single seam line revolves its way down the hem!

FRONT

BACK

SAYANTI'S Jacket had an amazing shoulder detail; teamed with a black trouser.

BACK

Madhu and Vertika's ensemble.

Ashish's ensemble.

Jazz(Left) wearing Gaurav's creation.

BACK

>>FUN<<

Vertika's jacket and corset.

End-Season SALE at CK Jeans

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:12:00 +0000

CK Look Book (Open the images to enlarge)

Human Connection!

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:53:00 +0000

She finishes her peg even before we guys start with our third sip, hence nicknamed as "Australian Tanki" which literally refers to an Australian tank in Hindi. Six months ago she joined our college as an exchange student from Australia and here I am, writing this blogpost minutes after bidding her farewell.

Taiwanese-look-alike Sam Delgos from QUT, Queensland, Australia along with Jazz (more of a studious girl whom I'd remember rest of my life for her draping skills) approached me for help with a notch collar pattern a couple of days after they joined our Uni (must be the Australian or even the non-Indian way of referring to an university). From there on we went on to become friends and now close enough to wipe her tears and plant a gentle peck on her cheek while I bid her farewell back to Australia.

We would talk about films, music, tease and do a mockery of faculties, make patterns together and share head phone ear plugs while listening to music. Weekend parties at our den were usually filled with crazy incidents. I, my girl friend and my roomies were all comfortable with her irrespective of the different cultures we were brought up in. One of my roomie still finds it really hard to get rid of his "Indo-Australian" accent which he contracted from her.

During the end semester vacations, we traveled 2000Km down the South of India and nevertheless to say... Its the most adventurous trip I have ever had in my life. She would constantly sing Chai-Chillum-Chapati and couple of other Hindi, Punjabi and Telugu songs which she learn here after coming to India.

She came like a spring. She disappeared like one. She has left her blossoms behind. Sweet memories I meant.

"No matter where you were 10yrs ago or where you will be 10yrs down the line. I thank God for making us meet for a short span of time in this vast and retracting world. We had a good time. Great time actually. Love you!" were exactly the final words I uttered into her ears before I had to wipe her moist eyes.

The world is small Sammy! This ain't the final good-bye :)

The whole incident somehow got me really sentimental and I can now clearly see what thing would look like a year down the line. It's four years ago when I moved to New Delhi that I understood what the world works like. I lived alone, struggled, cried, made mistakes, made wrong choices, learnt from my mistakes, learnt to differentiate between good and bad and made strongest of human bonds. It's the human bonds that I made, which makes me the person I am today. It's scary to learn that at some point of time we need to bid good byes to each other and walk away with the course of life. May be that's how life is supposed to be. Every one is a loner at the end of the day!

The whole NIFT episode taught me much more than pattern making, draping or garment construction. NIFT as a college is fucked up big time. Thank god, that it is fucked up... For, I learnt to accept failures, handle stress, learnt to fight back and learnt that life is beyond academics and scores. It made me the person who I am today.

Hi, I'm Purushu. I don't have the best grades, the best clothes, the best personality, or the best car. But I'm relaxed, and happy with everything I've ever done. And that's really all that matters.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::Chai-Chillum-Chapati::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Prabal Gurung Pre-Fall 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Purushu Arie) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:35:00 +0000

This is 2012. Most fashion designers and other artists still interpret the stereotypical 'Maharaja', jungle and snake charmers when it comes to visually interpreting the diverse culture of India. When I first heard of Prabal Gurung's pre-fall 2012 collection having Indian inspiration, beads, embroidery and drapes were the first elements that I could imagine of. But Prabal Gurung actually astonished me by not taking inspiration from the 'obvious'.

Nope. The garments were did not carry dhoti cowls but more towards to cuts and structure. The surface was not of the typical zardozi or chikan embroidery but stunning kaleidoscopic prints.

Style.com quotes, "Accordingly, the glitz factor was near zero. He relied on a kaleidoscope print for his dresses and separates rather than the glitzy embroideries he's sometimes been known for. The palette was just as focused; in addition to black and white, he zeroed in on emerald green and a subtle, earthy pink. At the time of our appointment, a silk cocktail dress in the former was already in the possession of a famous red-carpet-bound actress the name of whom Gurung wouldn't reveal. Like we said, upswing."

It makes me feel really happy as well as proud for the fact that Prabal Gurung himself started off his journey as a fashion designer from the very same college I studied. He worked in the very same lab where I draft my patterns now and was taught by the same faculties who teach me now! Proud of you!

PRABAL GURUNG PRE-FALL 2012 CAMPAIGN

Images from the collection:

Designer Purushu - Indian Fashion Blogger

Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012 - Complete Overview

5 'HAUTE' MOMENTS FROM WIFW AW 2012-13

Best of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week autumn/winter 2012

Day 5 at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2012

Day 4 at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Autumn/Winter 2012-13

Rahul Mishra - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012-13

ANREALAGE - Tokyo Fashion Week in WIFW AW 2012

Day 3 - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

Rimzim Dadu - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

Anand Bhushan - Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

Pero by Aneeth Arora, Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

Day 2: Willls Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2012

Another COPYCAT? Anaikka by Kanika Saluja similar to Gareth Pugh?

Day 1: Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW 2012

The Japanese connection

The British flavour in India

WIFW AW 2012 Schedule

Milan Fashion Week –Menswear Fall Winter 2012

IFB Links la Mode : Check out the best 20 fashion posts of the week!

Making a Connection

THE IFB WEEKLY ROUNDUP: LINKS À LA MODE: JANUARY 26TH

A fashion designer's workshop : FACTS & FICTION

TREND REPORT - SPRING/SUMMER 2012

FASHION, Jackets, Corsets and Trousers

End-Season SALE at CK Jeans

Human Connection!

Prabal Gurung Pre-Fall 2012