Apsara; The Beauty of Women: 5 Things to Look Forward to in Anita Dongre’s ‘Varanasi Weaves’

Monday, March 10, 2014

5 Things to Look Forward to in Anita Dongre’s ‘Varanasi Weaves’

True luxury is as beautiful on the inside as on the outsideUndeniably, India has a rich history of textile. Each state offers to spin magic on their loom, their weaves – so vastly different from the next, all flowing with exquisite craftsmanship and heritage. To honour this tradition, Lakme Fashion Week dedicates a day to Indian Textile, and selects a designer to celebrate the same with their collection, thus bridging the gap between folk culture and contemporary fashion. This year, on 14th March, Anita Dongrewill present “Varanasi Weaves” on India Textile Day at The Lakme Fashion Week summer/resort 2014. We, at Team MissMalini, had the opportunity to preview the beautiful line during the fittings. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the things that we’re looking forward to on the 14th:

1. SUMMER COTTONS

Models enjoy a laugh in their summer dresses | Photo Courtesy: Viral Bhayani

Keeping in mind Indian temperatures, Anita has used the perfect fabric for her collection. The handwoven cottons will breathe an air of freshness as the celsius rises. The intelligent application of this simple fabric through a variety of patterned weaves and light embroideries will definitely see the designs go to Caribbean vacations or even a beach wedding.

2. BREEZY RUSTIC WEAVES

Anita Dongre fits a model | Photo Courtesy: Viral Bhayani

Anita has retained the simplistic beauty of the tradional textile in her handwoven fabrics from Varanasi. Cotton brocades tease with their basic – solid over sheer patterns. We noticed an interesting blocking with different motifs – triangles, diagonal stripes, lattice patterns and a floral jaal blend together in a single understated colour, lending a statuesque sihlouette to the wearer.

3. EASY FEMININE SHAPES

Anita Dongre fine tunes her creations as Gautam Kalra looks on

The collection offers a wide rage of options in separates. Clean lines in contemporary shapes were patiently donned by the models who looked as fresh as ever. The silhouettes range from straight cuts to flares. The pristine white column gowns are quite desirable. Anita Dongre’s easy prêt shapes will make you feel every bit a woman.

4.VINTAGE COLOUR PALLETE

Triagles, Stripes, Lattice and Florals sewn together in harmony

When you see the collection, you’ll know that the designer had the scorching summer heat in mind while selecting her colours. The palette is an airy vintage wash of old rose, buttercup yellows and powder blues interspersed with muted nudes and dull gold with white as the prominent feature.

5.FEATHERY EMBROIDERY

Beautifully embroidered stories feature in Varanasi Weaves

Embellishment has been kept to the minimum (which is a nice thing -the last thing you want to wear in 40 degrees is a sack full of heavy sequins). Intricate patterns with beads and threadwork have been sewn by hand, in perfect harmony with the lightness of the clothes.

The collection will be available in stores two weeks from the date of the show. While we wait for the 14th to see the entire range, take a look at some candid moments from the fittings.