Old hat

Gladiator stilletoes: Thanks to Lady Gaga and Rihanna,the gladiator-type stilletoes came to rule the shoe collection of any and every wannabe glamazon. But according to designer Nikasha Tawadey,they’ve had more than enough time in the spotlight. “They look bulky,unattractive and are really uncomfortable,” she declares,“We need more comfortable and romantic footwear in 2011.” Beckoning ballet flats and kitten heels.

Blingy fashion: Whether it was a cocktail party or the runway,disco chic was big this year. It’s no wonder that fabrics in various metallic shades,sequins and stones enjoyed a good deal of attention. But with the new era of minimalism ushered in by the likes of Phoebe Philo and Stella McCartney,it’s time to ditch the glitz for some clean ultilitarianism. Designer Pria Kataria Puri agrees,“This trend of the metallic lycra fabric should have gone out in 2010,but it’s still so popular.” Designer Sabbah Sharma seconds that and adds,“The inappropriate use of Swarovski crystals,sequins,coloured stones which is not tastefully done makes the entire garment a complete disaster.”

Retro inspiration: Taking inspiration from the more flamboyant fashions of the past was a ruling theme this year,especially when it came to Bollywood. But be careful about imitating these big screen trends off screen. According to designer Riyaz Gangji,“Printed shirts and loud,brightly coloured pants just didn’t look good,and the hair styling was bad,especially in Action Replayy and Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai. They might work for the movies’ characters,but they simply do no translate well into real life.”

Kurtis: Kurtis with skirts,jeans,churidaars,leggings and simply as tunics — the humble garment got on the fast track to couture thanks to Monisha Jaising. But with the success of a garment come bad copies and creative exhaustion,and according to Kataria Puri,enough is enough. “This is another trend that was big in 2010,but it should now disappear.” Designer Alpa and Reena of Shivangi,however,don’t have a problem with the kurti per se. “It’s the combination of kurtis and leggings that needs to go,” they say,“there’s a definite overkill in this matter.”