The GenNext show this year, has to be amongst the strongest we’ve seen so far. Each collection that hit the runway had a unique identity, and was so poised and experienced; surprising – considering all of them must be under 25.
Gaga by Tanya Sharma
Model Kabir Singh walked out, looking as if he’d worn the most fashionable pajamas and bathrobe, and was ready to hit the town. That might not sound delectable to most, but trust me it was. The next few outfits were a mix of neon embroidery, done on net, paired with pristine whites and bright pinks. Bang on the trend with peplums and capes, this collection is a young fashionista’s dream.
Ilk by Shika Grover and Vinita Adhikare
Rags to riches, was my first thought when I saw the first look – exposed threads on a bias cut dress, put together with neon textured shoes. The shoes, but obviously, caught my eye. The pop of colour was just what the collection needed to keep it current. Natural, grunge, distressed yet calm, are some of the words to describe this collection. Considering these two girls look like they’re in their teens, it’s such a mature collection; so impressed with what they put out.
Prashant Chauhan
Tibet inspired head pieces with larger than life head pieces, that even Anjana Sharma had to try on at the fittings. The whole collection was pushing the limits of the ordinary. Colours were inspired by the Buddhist prayer flags, that reflected in the larger northeast feel of the collection. One piece in particular, an A-line dress, was covered in brown (fake) fur and then appliqued with small felt flowers, looking like a Yak grazing in a field somewhere. I like that this collection inspired you to imagine a different world.
Frou Frou by Archana Rao
This collection was so well put together, you could tell that the designer really had a sense of how she wanted her clothes to be styled. Each garment had great detailing, like the ombre blue and cream blazor that was paired with a boat neck lapel shirt. There was so much sophistication in the design, that surely comes from laboring over her pattern making process. Many of these pieces can be worn to work, especially if you’re in a creative sort of company. I’m sure it’s going to be a hit with many young working women.
Manoj Kumar & Vinod Bhardwaj
These were the two boys we were talking about earlier. Well, they presented their collection that was inspired by the Banyan tree. Roots were translated into rope detailing on the garments, and the leaves, as tie dye, on cloth. The colours were obviously earthy and the collection had a raw sensibility. While this was a good beginning, the boys will grow in strength, which only experience can bring.
Megha Garg
There was something darkly ethereal about this collection. The models all wore column or fitted dresses, which were wrapped in a fraying organza. The fabric swayed as the models walked, creating a wafty feel to all the garments. The colours, although predominantly black, was then dyed into shades that looked like subdued reds and greens. The collection had a minimal feel, but didn’t compromise on it’s whole vision. The highlight for me, personally, were the shoes (I’m going to the stall to pick up a pair). The shoes were completely covered in bits of organza – really whimsical and definitely statement making.
Yogesh Chaudhary
Yogesh Chaudhary had a clear vision from the start. Striped blues and some well used silver highlights, were the backbone for all his garments. His clothes, in fact, were such a hit, that later on in the day, singer Monica Dogra wore his open backed maxi dress to Sapna Bhavnani’s Talent Box show. The man-ly shirts, paired with wide leg trousers, and metallic asymmetrical hem pants, were a highlight of this collection.