Creative Duet

This summer has been somewhat lacklustre with few designers showing in the city. However,the change in weather (read respite from the heat) has brought in the season’s first trunk show. Nalini Sibal is hosting a two-day trunk show by designers Gaurav Katta and Divvya A Bhasin.

A jewellery designer who trained at the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in Santa Monica,USA,Bhasin is “deeply inspired” by nature and it shows in her work as well. She uses natural materials in her collection of jewellery,besides gold,diamonds and precious as well as semi-precious stones. For the Chandigarh show,Bhasin has put together old traditional kundan “tukris” (pieces) with a contemporary twist. The collection also includes layered necklaces,a variety of earrings — from traditional jhumkis to elegant,cocktail danglers — bold cuffs,bracelet-bangles and cocktail rings in pop colours. There is a significant use of pearls in baroque form as well.

Complementing Bhasin’s colourful array is Jaipur-based designer Gaurav Katta,who specialises in traditional Rajasthani gotta-patti work. Though he admits the inspiration of his label,launched in 2008,has always been the Rajwadas of Jaipur,he has taken it forward by working on the silhouettes,giving it a boho-chic interpretation. In his collection,that offers saris,tunics and suits,zardozi,gotta and dori emerge in a hip avatar. There is special emphasis on textural details and Katta’s love for colours comes out prominently.

The trunk show is taking place at Kidsown,SCO 104-105,Sector 17 D,Chandigarh. It will end today.