After Dark Orientalism and Tribal Cool

Two stand out shows on day four of Amazon India Fashion Week include Ashima Leena and Malini Ramani.

Ashima Leena’s collection was inspired by blue pottery and orientalism amongst an array of other inspirations:

Ashima Leena at Amazon India Fashion Week AW 2017

The Silk Route’s Enduring Inspiration

Ashima-Leena WIFW AW 2014

Ashima-Leena’s collection inspiration is the tried and tested journey down the old silk route. I say this not to criticise but to emphasise that it remains fertile ground and has provided centuries of ideas to creatives.

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.