Roman Rendezvous

A dramatic set,it seems,is now the norm at a fashion week. After Rohit Bal’s floating lotuses at the Amby Valley India Bridal Fashion Week (IBFW),it was designer Suneet Varma’s turn to impress. Walking into the show area on Saturday,one couldn’t help but do a 360 degree turn to take in the ambience. While arches and Roman columns framed the ramp,the walls showcased frescoes. For this collection titled,‘The Golden Bracelet’,Varma was inspired by the ancient city of Pompeii.

As the collection rolled out,one realised that Roman-inspired silhouettes went perfectly well with Indian bridal wear. There were three themes — ‘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 designer’s 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 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 designer’s colour palette didn’t 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.