Anjana Bhargav's dreamy white world of cotton and crochet was perfect for the scorching Indian summer. The virginal element was offset by bizarre plastic 'lips' in bright colours that the models carried around in their mouths.
Embroidered linen shirts worn with satin jodhpurs and crochet ankle warmers gave an extremely layered and soft feel to the collection. The knit tank tops and ecrue coloured 'ganji's were pretty practical and wearable.
The models carried some breathtaking striking bags made of glass. "I designed them myself in the shape of ice cube," Bhargav said.
Layering seems to be the mantra for designers this year. Victorianesque blouses under gangis and silvery ghagra skirts with pants underneath seemed to fit right in the somewhat bizarre world created by Bhargav. Bjork's crazy vocals in the background added to the mood.
Overall a fairly feminine collection with emphasis on layering.
THE OTHER VIEW: Sensual & stylish
Meeta Mishra & Arati Thapa/HT City
Anjana Bhargav's all-white collection was beautifully put together using lace, crochet and some sequin.
The collection was a mix of western and Indian clothes. Remarkably Bhargav put together a show that made the sari look extremely sexy and beautiful. She teamed the sari with long tops or blouses made like a shirt, in the process making no part of the body visible. Also in focus were the layered skirts and a couple of cowl trousers and interesting bags. There were skirts with balloon tops, crochet layered cotton skirts, tops with gota pleats, ruffled neck and front open silk crochet tops.
{{/usCountry}}The collection was a mix of western and Indian clothes. Remarkably Bhargav put together a show that made the sari look extremely sexy and beautiful. She teamed the sari with long tops or blouses made like a shirt, in the process making no part of the body visible. Also in focus were the layered skirts and a couple of cowl trousers and interesting bags. There were skirts with balloon tops, crochet layered cotton skirts, tops with gota pleats, ruffled neck and front open silk crochet tops.
{{/usCountry}}Bhargav used handspun cords and metallic elements for surface texturing. Gota work stood out in the garments as well as on the bags. The fabrics used were an eclectic mix -crepe, linen, cotton, velvet and chiffon. In the final analysis: A wearable collection.
Rate-o-meter
Wearability: 9
Presentation: 7
Front Row: Friends, clients and international buyers
Buzz factor: 7
Late-o-meter: 20 minutes