Journalism of Courage
A New Beginning
The ground floor at Mumbais Palladium Annexe wears an ornate look now,with the opening of luxury brand Guccis second store in the city (fourth in India). Spanning more than 1,600 square feet,this all-accessories store is among 130 global Gucci stores that reflects its creative director Frida Gianninis design vision. While a wide array of products such as handbags,shoes,watches,sunglasses,ties and other gift items compete for attention,its difficult to not get distracted by the smoked mirror and glass interiors,and gold and glass striped door handles. A major attraction is the India Exclusive collection of golden exotic skin handbags. Interestingly,to mark the opening,the store has even put up a temporary installation of three iconic Gucci handbags New Bamboo,New Jackie and Stirrup bag on display in the lobby area.
Gaultiers Cannes Outing
For years now,the Cannes Film Festival has been in the news not just for its films but also its red carpet couture. Now,it seems fashion will officially sit in a high chair. The grapevine has it that French designer Jean Paul Gaultier (in the picture) will be part of the jury headed by Italian director Nanni Moretti for the 65th edition of this prestigious film festival slated to start on May 16. Festival president Gilles Jacob is in no hurry to make the news official yet,but the talks have begun to do the rounds in the fashion industry. Asked about it at a press conference announcing the names of the movies in the competition category,Jacob didnt confirm the news,nor did he deny it. Film world fashionistas are keeping their stilettos crossed.
Paris to China Town
Last week saw fashion house Dior stage the first ever haute couture show in China. The fashion soiree with a completely Parisian ambience,down to the Napoleon III chairs,grey walls with white moldings and 18th-century consoles,was held at a specially chosen colonial building The House of Roosevelt. The Spring-Summer 2012 collection,especially the showstopper red ball gown (Chinese brides also prefer red),wowed Chinese celebrities Zang Ziyi,Zang Huan and Ni Ni. Such was the importance of the event that Hung Huang,also referred to as the Chinese Oprah Winfrey tweeted all through the show. The event saw a cocktail session with a breathtaking view of the Huangpu river as a sextet performed a live concert of Brahms and Vivaldi.
Compiled by Vidya Prabhu and Jagmeeta Thind Joy
