All That Jazz

Raakesh Agarvwal.

It’s been a while — four seasons and two years to be precise  — since we spotted designer Raakesh Agarvwal’s name in the list of designers showing at fashion week. While the Delhi-based designer, known for his glamourous red-carpet ready outfits, has been touring cities with his collections including bridal wear, his absence at fashion week has been conspicuous. However, there’s little to complain now as Agarvwal is geared to make a noticeable comeback.

He will be showcasing at the forthcoming Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn Winter 2014 in Delhi where he’s looking to go back to the time when he launched his label in 2007. “I started with partywear, including sexy gowns and dresses initially. I then went on to include bridal wear and even collections for the groom,” says Agarvwal, who is set to drop bridal wear from his portfolio. “I have spent some time looking at the business operations and have come to realise that options for bridal wear are plenty in the context of Indian designers. My forte has been glamourous western outfits and with this collection, I am rebuilding my core strength,” he explains.

Having perfected the art of the drape, his Autumn-Winter 2014 collection, he elaborates, has dramatic evening wear including pre-stitched saris, gowns, corsets and the likes. “Think red carpet,” quips the designer, who sounds visibly excited in going back to his original inspiration.

While vibrant hues and detailed embroideries have been a mainstay of Agarvwal’s work, he shares how one shade has always been his favourite and the new Autumn-Winter collection will pay an ode to it. “It’s the colour gold. You will see interpretations like metallics in the collection,” he says.

Speaking of new, over the years, Agarvwal has built on his line of jewellery and is going to present a new collection that, like his ensembles, will be a break from the past. “The underlying theme is futuristic fashion. The jewellery that I will present is fun and away from the traditional,” says the designer.

The last couple of years have also seen the designer build up his range of accessories. “With autumn-winter, I am presenting a stronger line of bags, belts and a range of boots,” he adds.