Manish Arora presented his “Indian” on day four of PCJ Delhi Couture Week. This was first time he presented a bridal collection, and as expected it was not for the conventional bride to be. Set against an “Indian” take on the carousel. (He used a Carousel for a few collections ago in Paris, his regular show city).
He mixed all the kitsch elements he loves – his glittering leggings became churidars, carousel skirts formed parts of the anarkali, and his love of armour was turned into jewellery. Glow in the dark accents injected some humour. Saris had stripes, mughal motifs and polkas. This made no apologies for being over the top, his bride is not scared of what her mother in law has to say.
Full skirted was the norm, and shell tops were his chosen companions to lehengas. They didn’t sit well on the lehengas but might well on denims or simple black leggings. Hand woven brocades were mixed with vivid digital prints, stones, faux leather, zardosi crystals and sequins. I have a feeling we will be seeing a lot diaphanous polos with bejeweled yokes in fashion editorials.
The Mang Tikkas had an amazon feel, and powering chokers looked like shields. Perhaps he was trying to say marriage is a battlefield? With music inspired by Gangs of Wasseypur Manish made a bold statement. If kitsch is your thing then this a collection for you. If not, stay away.
Pictures by Surbhi Sethi for MissMalini