Is it just us, or were a ton of collections at Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2012 influenced heavily by Western silhouettes and styling? We love fusion fashion just as much as the next globally-minded girl, but it was still refreshing to see some Lakme designers stay true to their Indian fashion roots. Here are picks for the Lakme Fashion Week collections with the most elegant, eye-catching ethnic looks.
JJ Valaya
With luxurious, layered brocades, opulent pops of color and flowing floor-length gowns, JJ Valaya definitely sent looks down the runway that any modern Indian woman would die to wear. We’re loving his use of traditional textile techniques and his homage to the saree silhouette. And is it just us, or do some of his black and white looks bring to mind Narsisco Rodriguez?
Manish Malhotra
Leave it to Manish Malhotra to send another gorgeous collection down the Lakme runway. The highlights of his latest line? His romantic use of sheer sleeves and high necklines to update the lengha silhouette for 2012. Luxemi’s pick for Manish’s best look is his saree-inspired dusty pink gown with a maroon border and an intricate silver waistband that gives us yet another reason to love Indian crystal work.
Shaymal and Bhumika Shodhan
This design duo kept it opulent and old school in the best way possible, incorporating brocade and embroidery into each of its gold, black and red looks. This collection was all about finding beauty in the details, whether it was through intricate embellishments on salwars or the chic strands of pearls that put a modern twist on the traditional saree.
Bhairavi Jaikishan
If you’ve been looking for a new favorite saree designer, Bhairavi Jaikishan should undoubtedly be on your radar. Between the use of gorgeous netting and sweet sorbet colors, this collection is filled with feminine detailing that will make you swoon.
Prayal Singhal
With metallic detailing and a classic color palate (is anything more timeless than navy, red, mustard yellow and crème?), Prayal Singhal makes the lengha and salwar perfect for a night out on the town. Two other things we love: His funky headpieces and the chic red brocade pants the designer pairs with a crème long-sleeved blouse.
Whether you love East-meets-West fashion or can’t get enough of traditional Indian silhouettes, there was plenty of inspiration at Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2012. Check the Luxe Report for full coverage of the best designers and collections from Lakme!
The Luxe Report 