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Payal Jain's ode to the mendicant
The whistling sands of Arabia, the sand dunes of Jaisalmer, the vast sandy expanses of Africa, the awesome desertscapes of Morrocco - all found their way on the ramp at LIFW, showcasing designer Payal Jain's spring-summer '05 collection.
The whistling sands of Arabia, the sand dunes of Jaisalmer, the vast sandy expanses of Africa, the awesome desertscapes of Morrocco - all found their way on the ramp at LIFW, showcasing designer Payal Jain's spring-summer '05 collection.
A strong banjara influence created a mystic impact as rich fabrics met richer colours - all with decidedly Indian silhouettes.
"The collection is inspired by the lives of the desert people whose journey through life is vast and vivid like the desert itself. The outfits are an ode to the relentless, multi-cultural undying spirit of the wandering mendicant," says Jain.
The gorgeous reds and greens looked stunning against the models' glistening brown skin. Sexy silver chains slithered across tanned backs that were proudly displayed through backless cholis.
Beaded bra-tops worn with flouncy ghaghra-skirts looked fabulous and were set off with matching bandanas with silver coins hanging from them.
Decorative patterns and vibrant colours have been worked in traditional tribal beadings and ethnic batik and block prints, updated with an unfailing modern edge.
Skirts of varied lengths, layered wraparound skirts and pants paired with crochet gillets created a sensually dramatic impact on the ramp. "Everything is priced from Rs. 2,000-10,000 - since it's all in pure silk," the designer said.
Special mention must be made of the bandana style bustier and ruby red which upped the glam quotient of the collection.
