Journalism of Courage
Premium
Roman Rendezvous
Inspired by the city of Pompeii,Suneet Varma drapes Indian brides with a new look
A dramatic set,it seems,is now the norm at a fashion week. After Rohit Bals floating lotuses at the Amby Valley India Bridal Fashion Week (IBFW),it was designer Suneet Varmas turn to impress. Walking into the show area on Day Five,one couldnt help but do a 360-degree turn to take in the ambience. While arches and Roman columns framed the ramp,the walls of the entire venue showcased frescoes. For this collection,titled The Golden Bracelet,Varma was inspired by the ancient city of Pompeii,which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions of Italy.
You need a subscription to read this story. Republic Day Sale: Annual pack at Rs 999
Already a subscriber? Sign In
This content is exclusive for our subscribers.
Subscribe to get unlimited access to The Indian Express exclusive and premium stories.
As the collection rolled out,one realised that Roman-inspired silhouettes went perfectly well with Indian bridal wear. The sari,a Suneet Varma speciality,was twisted,tucked,pulled and draped in this collection only to emerge in a contemporary form. The Roman toga was interpreted by the designer wonderfully well.
The collection was presented in three themes of Romance,Longing and Wedding. Romance was a jewel-toned,rich velvet line with ensembles boasting of draping styles and gold metallic prints with rich beaded tassles. The models wore wreath-inspired headgear in gold,neck pieces shaped as twigs,spiral-shaped long rings,and armlets too. Then came a more muted line in hues such as ivory and pale blue. Here the designers signature use of embellishments shone through. The silhouettes were a fusion of Indian and Roman themes as models walked in wearing suits teamed with pants,saris with bustiers,floor-sweeping dresses,tiered skirts and sheer blouses.
The last section of the show it was fairly long drawn saw a mix of floral appliqué saris and long dresses,anarkalis,saris and lehengas highlighting the use of cutwork and lace. The styling was dreamy and elegant and the designers colour palette didnt steer too far away from the pale pink family. He also brought back to the ramp,the breast plate blouse that first made an appearance in his debut collection,The Greek Sculpture,nearly two decades ago. Tulle,georgette,silk,and velvet,Varma rustled up all fabrics. Finally,dressed in a red and gold heavily embellished lehenga,actor Chitrangada Singh closed the show for the designer.
Subscriber Only Stories