Stepping Out in Style

Established around 15 years ago by Delhi-based designer Uma Rathi,who specialises in Indian menswear,the fashion brand Sankalan is now foraying into new avenues. The House of Sankalan launched its Delhi store in Panchsheel last week and will soon be seen in the major metros of India. Informing that the outlet will now cater to both pret and couture for men and women,co -owner Shruti Rathi says,“We want to bring fashion from the catwalk to the sidewalk.” Giving a platform to less-known brands and designers,the House of Sankalan has several in-house designers and will soon add labels like Let Me Be,Kunal Tanna,and Ritika Mirchandani to the roster.

For the women,there are tunics,dresses,jumpsuits,kaftans,kurtas,anarkalis,saris and lehengas in midnight blues,pearl whites and fuchsia pinks in fabrics like georgette,silk,crepe and brocade. The men’s collection includes ensembles comprising kurtas,bandhgalas,Jodhpuri coats and sherwanis. The style is traditional with a strong emphasis on silhouettes,handwork and surface texturing. Prices range from Rs 3,500 to 85,000 for women’s wear and Rs 35,000 to 1,20,000 for men’s designs. Among those present at the launch were artist Jatin Das and Subhalakshmi Khan,the wife of sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan.