Best show: Shruti Sancheti
What was it about: She married French chic with the Tamilian allure bringing out a summery, vibrant and wearable collection - a stunning array of midis, maxis, voluminous jumpsuits, asymmetrical dresses and jackets.
Verdict: We loved the dainty old world floral prints and quilting. The sheer sari with a tube top which came towards the end was sexy. Floral statement collars added a new freshness to the show.
Layered to perfection: Pratima Pandey
What was it about: Nothing spells summer better than silk Chanderi and pure cotton and Ms Pandey has clearly mastered the art of using these two fabrics. Detailing was restricted on the sheer Chanderi covers in the form of cowl necklines, epaulets, appliqués, churi sleeves, empire line shapes; asymmetric openings while most the garments were topped with refreshing off-white scarves.
Verdict: We loved the pin tucks, dainty florals and also the way the garments were layered.
Edgy and stylish: Sengar
What was it about: Using textiles like cotton, chanderi and linen, Lalit created one-button sleeveless double breasted jacket with printed lining, voluminous pants, waistcoats with shoulder detailing, tees and geometric patchwork.
Verdict: A refreshing menswear show in a scenario when most designers are showcasing bandhgalas. We loved the asymmetrical necklines, metallic epaulets, gold buttons and floral touches on the waistcoats.
Rustic charm: Karishma Sahani Khan
What was it about: Morphing the craft of Ajrakh, block printing and natural dyeing from Gujarat - she presented a collection which was a veritable feast. Inspired by the sartorial style of local vendors, workers and tailors - this rustic tinted offering had elements like gamchas, shirts, lehengas with utility pockets for inners and outer.
Verdict: We loved the placement of the embroidery on shoulders, collars, sleeves and skirts. The collection offered very wearable and versatile separates which can be mixed and matched with a new twist.
Best jewellery show: Mrinalini Chandra
What was it about: The chair design was the leitmotif of the entire collection - from a gold bolero to a graphic 3D rendition for necklaces and cummerbunds. Mrinalini used customised gold alloy, recycled glass stones and semi-precious gems, like jade, onyx, coated pearls, etc.
Verdict: The pieces were extremely light and easy to wear even though it appeared that they carried a lot of weight. We loved the chair rings, earrings and exaggerated kaliras for each wrist.
Dated: Gaurang Shah
What was it about: He highlighted the ancient Jamdani weaving technique, and presented the odhna weaves on organza while the embroidery on khadi recreated the antique zardosi style.
Verdict: We wish the collection was styled in a contemporary, modern way. Today's bride wants to look sexy and dance at their wedding and not sit in a corner draped in a mound of fabric.
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