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Considering that LIFW focuses on the business of fashion, a big problem always has been the limited number of seats at the shows.

Considering that LIFW focuses on the business of fashion, a big problem always has been the limited number of seats at the shows. It is important to have genuine buyers in the main show area where shows are held. In the past, important buyers have complained about not being able to watch shows despite having accreditation from the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI).

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Areas have always been reserved for the media, buyers, sponsors, FDCI and designers. However, since there are only a few seats for each category, buyers invariably have restricted access to the show area. This time too, the picture isn't different. Unless a buyer manages to get an invite from the designer, he won't be allowed entry to the show area.

"This isn't fair. I don't have enough invites to distribute but I feel all potential buyers should be allowed entry with their accreditation badges," says a designer who wishes not to be named. Says another designer: "Besides important buyers, our regular clients wish to attend our shows too. With limited invites, it's a problem."

Given that the demand for passes exceeds supply, it is all the more important for FDCI to allocate seats carefully. Says Sam Joseph, former CEO of Rohit Bal, who manages and markets several designer labels: "The buyer's profile and purchasing power should be taken into account while accreditation is given. A highly-rated buyer should have access to whichever show he wants to see."

According to FDCI executive director Rathi Vinay Jha, after scrutinising the authenticity and company profiles of buyers, the list is handed over to designers. "Because of limited accommodation, we can't afford to have all buyers at all shows," defends Jha. "It's upto the designers to choose their buyers. In any case, 25 per cent of the total seating capacity is reserved for designers and they can invite whoever they wish."

Whether designers want genuine buyers or celebrities for photo-ops to occupy the seats, only the next few days will tell.