Delhi-based designer Rajdeep Ranawat ruled Day Three of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week. Ranawat presented traditional, western and resort wear for women. Taking inspiration from history and culture of Europe for the ensemble, his collection included lightweight-printed silhouettes, ranging from evening gowns, saris, anarkalis, kaftans and short kurtis.

“Regal renaissance” is how the designer described his collection. He believes the dresses are perfect for resort wear and the free falling textures and silhouettes make that quite evident. “We have used some elements of Swarovski here and there, so they are not over the top and give a very easy going feel,” says Ranawat.

The collection showcased had intricate brass work embroidery on collars and sleeves in order to highlight a blend of Indian and western motifs. Luxurious fabrics such as velvet, chiffon, silk georgette and silk satin along with elaborate ornamentation were combined to create an authentic medieval look. The designer used rich colours like maroon, vintage olive, deep turquoise and bordeaux, among others, on which the gold and silver thread embroidery looked quite regal.

An edgy vibe to the collection was further enhanced by spiky metallic embellishments on armbands and shoulder moldings that adorned most of the garments. However, when talking edgy, accessories used throughout the show were phenomenal. The vibrant embroidered kitten heels and boots that were presented with equally bright printed tunics and jackets, took the collection to another level altogether.

No wonder the designer feels that accessories are the most important aspect for any outfit to stand out.

“I always find that women certainly think about the right bag, shoe, jewellery to go with their outfit. And that’s very important. So we’ve focused on accessories as much as on the garments,” said an enthusiastic Ranawat, who also revealed that his wife helped him out with the designing part.

Trying to recreate the European look graphically and digitally on the fabrics, while keeping in mind the Indian clientele, he further said, “The European prints and motifs printed on the fabrics have been used. However, at the end of the day, it’s the Indian buyers you have to aim for, hence the added Indian touch is also seen.”

Designers such as Joy Mitra, Reynu Tandon, Kiran Uttam Ghosh, Rajesh Pratap Singh and Manish Malhotra also showcased their autumn/winter collections on Friday.

salonimadan@mydigitalfc.com