Creative cuts by rookie Gaurav Gupta

The second-time designer scores high on creativity but low on wearability, reports Sidhi Chadha.

Artistic cuts, aesthetics in place and in-depth research was surely reflecting in second-time entrant Gaurav Gupta's designs but somewhere down the line it makes us wonder if such clothes are wearable?

Inspired by art nouveau and ancient Greek draping, designer Gaurav Gupta kick-started his show on day 3 of India Fashion Week in the capital.

The designer’s line reflected the 19th-century influence with the use of heavy embellishments that conform to contours of  the body. Silhouettes were conventional western and Indian, ranging from saris to skirts and from pleatedjackets to jerseys. Balloon-hemmed skirts, sage jerseys, trousers also completed the line.

One could observe the unique drapes that Gaurav had experimented with - be it sari pallas or the Aangan. Saris definitely were the highlight of the collection. Interesting necklines included Cowl necks, pleated necklines and whacky panelled, overlapping necks.

The colour palette remained restricted with colours like ivory creams, powder blues, gold, beige, olive greens and whites.

Fabrics used were linen, organza frills, nets, satin, voile, and georgettes. Most clothes had thick metal sequins and beadwork done.

Unlike last time, where the designer's collection was completely western, this time Gaurav had ventured into desi designs and embroideries. Rich Lucknowi chikankari-shadow work and diffused gold hand embroideries were used on most drapes.

Our takeWell, definitely Gaurav scores points for creativity but as far as wearability is in question, the designer has a long way to go!

SpottedManish Malhotra, Tarun T., Shantanu-Nikhil, Anamika Khanna