Classic-modern blend at Ashima-Leena show

MONIKA RAWAL / Mar 15, 2008, 17:37 IST

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Ashima-Leena created an exquisite balance between tradition and modernity using lovely embellishments.

Classic-modern blend at Ashima-Leena show

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Ashima-Leena��s collection More picsThe famous designer duo has created an exquisite balance between tradition and modernity with the help of lovely embellishments and an inspiring colour palette.
As the Indian Fashion Week witnesses heat and action in real earnest, the design gurus seem to be trying hard to break away from the monotony of things and bring in a completely new look and feel to their collections.
After legendary designer Ritu Kumar showcased a totally different line from what she had been doing for years, it was time for the illustrious designer duo Ashima and Leena to come up with an inspiring collection that would stand out from the rest. And the famous stylists did not disappoint fans, fashionistas and buyers as they showcased an exclusive line on the third day of the ongoing India Fashion Week.
With animal welfare activists Maneka Gandhi and Ambika Soni, danseuse Sharon Lowen and designer Tarun Tahilinai seated in the front rows, the show had quite a few VIP viewers in its fold. And the glamorous line displayed on the ramp spoke unmistakably of the designers�� signature style - their fondness for heavy embroidery and penchant for the typical India touch.

��In this collection, we have tried to revive the 1930s looks by using ancient brocades and exquisite bird prints. Hopefully, we have created the right effect - a successful amalgamation of periodic trends and modern style,�� explained the duo.
There was a mixture of Western and Indian garments using a whole gamut of heavy and sheer fabrics like jersey, lycra, chiffon and georgette. Ashima and Leena had crafted beautiful drapes in different silhouettes - ranging from the traditional sarees and

bandgalas to gowns, drop-shoulder dresses, kaftans, skirts and balloon dresses. One could also find stylish waist coats, long jackets and jodhpurs - essentially Western classics but sporting an oriental richness. A much underplayed colour palette came alive with black, grey, beige and shades of white that eventually merged with brighter hues like red, wine, blue, green, aqua, maroon and purple.
��This time we focused more on evening colours for the garments. That is why classic black has been combined with a lot of other colours like blue, green and red,�� explained Ashima.
The duo had also put in a lot of efforts to glamourise the saree or six yards of sheer grace, as it is lovingly called. From the pleated blouse to the heavy embellishments on the neck (also called the necklace embroidery) and a perfect fall of fabric, the traditional Indian outfit could not have looked more alluring.
Asked about the intricate necklace embroidery that adorned their sarees and was much appreciated, the duo replied that it was all sheer fabric heavily embellished with crystals.
��Women need not wear an additional piece of jewellery while donning this saree as the necklace embroidery brings in a jewelled effect, Also, we wanted to give a new twist to sarees and make them look really glamorous,�� the ace designers confirmed.
Jodhpurs (pants which are tight-fitted at the bottom and loose at the upper end), too, seemed to be another key attraction of this collection, as Ashima-Leena teamed those with different outfits to set up a new style statement.
��Jodhpurs are really in now and liked by a majority who wants to dress in a stylish way. They looked stunning especially when paired with waist coats,�� they said
Further accentuating the beauty of the garments were the pearl chains and crystal accessories, as well as bags, rings, danglers, belts and neck pieces that gelled well with the outfits. Designed by Sumitra Bakliwal, these handpicked pieces bore a strong vintage look.
��The bags and clutches are embellished with crystals, feathers, semi-precious stones, chains and meshes. When the line is so gorgeous, there has to be prominent accessories and jewels that will add to its splendour,�� asserted the accessory designer.
��This is a well-predicted collection for fall-winter and we have tried to keep it as wearable as possible. There��s a lot of bling in it though, but it should appeal to all kinds of buyers,�� Ashima and Leena concluded confidently.
monika.rawal@indiatimes.co.in

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