The news of India's leading fashion photographer, Prabuddha Dasgupta's demise had somewhat saddened the backstage atmosphere just a few hours before the penultimate show of the PCJ Delhi Couture Week 2012. And as anticipated, Manav Gangwani began his 'Royal Affaire' with the ramp almost an hour late.
Theme: Royal bling, imperial glitter! Manav Gangwani is a self-confessed lover of 'bling'. This time, however, he claims to have cut down on the shiny, shimmery side. "Bling was controlled. If you noticed, thread-work was also introduced. The designs are ingeniously modernized to be entirely original and utterly contemporary," says he. Affirmative! If there was any element of bling on the garments, they were balanced by the monochromatic look, subtlety of fabrics and intricate embroidery. Collection and colour palette The show began with pristine, white drapes parting slowly to introduce models into the ramp. While the first half was dominated by black and white hues, the second half revealed models as mannequins wearing bold reds. Sheer fish net dress with fine Swarvoski crystals, charcoal black velvet Anarkali with prominent Swarvoski embroidery, fish-cut Lehengas with trains and signature blouses with plunging necklines, Shararas and Gararas, Anarkalis Swarvoski embroidered borders, typical Cinderella gown with flappers, little black dresses with embroidered shoulder straps and Victorian-style off shoulder gowns with gloved arms constituted the women's line of clothing. These were paired with black stilettos and strapped high heels. For men, there were traditional Sherwanis with shimmery collars and cuffs done up in heavy thread work that matched with pure white churidars and black, leather boots. Fabric: An array of fabrics like silk, laces, tulle, velvet, satins and dupions were used to give life to the garments. Queen of Bhutan bestows her royal presence: It was a royal collection, quite literally at that. The Queen of Bhutan, Jetsun Pema, who happens to be Manav Gangwani's good friend and client, honoured the show with her royal presence. "I did the wedding clothes for them and have a special connect with the family. I am very glad she's here," said Manav. Familiar faces: All of Manav's friends and clients occupied the front row - designer duo Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna were seen chatting with Manish Malhotra, Shashi Tharoor sat smiling with wife Sunanda Pushkar in tow, Sophie Chaudhary, Priya Chatwal with sister Charu Sachdev, jewellery designer Farah Khan Ali, and actress Raveena Tandon to name a few. |
Labels: Fashion
