Before mean old Mount Vesuvius erupted and engulfed Pompeii it was an exquisite, sophisticated city and home to some of the Roman period’s best arts and crafts. Pompeii provided the romantic backdrop to veteran Indian designer Suneet Varma’s bridal couture collection entitled ‘The Golden Bracelet’. There weren’t too many gold bracelets on display, however, there was a stunning gold bust that I absolutely must get my hands on.. it looks about my size…
The Princess Bride
Remember when Big and Carrie got married in Sex And The City? The second attempt, that is…the understated but elegant vintage outfit and small registry…That is the opposite of what was on offer for the gal that nothing short of fairytale and fantasy would do. Both Ashima Leena and Rohit Bal showed bridal collections for princess brides albeit from slightly different inspirational eras.
One of the few Indian designers that can include mega international celebrities on his client list, Rohit Bal’s bridal collection was entitled The Mulmul Masquerade.
The Gatsby Effect at Raghvendra Rathore
If every Englishman’s home is his castle then every Indian’s wardrobe is his or her majestic palace such is the dominance of royal inspiration in Indian design. Couturier Raghvendra Rathore belongs to the royal family of Jodhpur (also known as the blue city) and thus has a vast archive of influences to draw from.
The press notes cite the 1920s as inspiration and this was clear in the pretty and attention-grabbing accessories.
Shantanu & Nikhil: To Die For
Charming and dapper young design duo, Shantanu & Nikhil presented their couture collection titled ‘To Die For’ aiming to capture the decadent renaissance in its most contemporary form with an emphasis on the different shades of gold. The sheer strength and buying power in the Indian bridal market renders it irresistible
JJ Valaya, The Maharaja of Madrid
The Maharaja of Indian couture, JJ Valaya’s opening show for AAmby Valley India Bridal Fashion Week was as spectacular as to be expected from a designer who spares no expense in executing his vision.
JJ’s previous couture collection was inspired by his visits to Turkey resulting in an exquisite fusion of silk route couture. The Arab empire ruled in Spain for over 700 years before