Michelle Salins represents India at Miami International Fashion Week

This March certainly holds a treat for fashion buffs.

After Lakme Fashion Week, it’s time to indulge in a heady concoction of sun, sand and glamour as India’s Michelle Salins is set to represent our country at the prestigious 12th Annual Miami International Fashion Week (MIFW).

Having aptly named her collection, The Jewel Tones of India, which is being showcased on 20th March at Miami’s trendy Wynwood art district, we ask Michelle about her inspirations. She says, “This season, I have designed a collection that explores the culture and colour of our incredible country! Silks in satins, tulle, velvets, georgettes, and chiffons draped luxuriously, depict the harmony of India with silhouettes that take the heritage of India to the Western world.”

The MIFW has been the playing field of many a popular designers such as Oscar De La Renta, Carolina Herrera, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Manish Arora and Rina Dhaka, who have been prominent participants. So, when asked about how she feels about representing India, she excitedly says, “I’m absolutely overwhelmed at the prospect on such a big platform. I feel extremely blessed to be chosen from hundreds of applicants for the prestigious MIFW.”

Michelle’s use of embellishments like crystal, Indian hand embroidery like zardosi and sequins with beads, add a glamour quotient to her sophisticated and
elegant red carpet gowns which pronounce an otherwise western silhouette. Her collection will also showcase cocktail footwear specially designed by Michelle for the first time. Bringing in her signature butterfly motif to the collection, she adds a dash of fun, feminity and sensuality to her garments. Talking about her preparations, she says, “I don’t even know where to start, there is so much to prepare — from head gear to garments to shoes. I’m going to launch my first-ever shoe collection at MIFW. These are very glamorous shoes in satin and silk, perfect for cocktails or even a red carpet event!”

Having worked in close association with silk weavers in Kancheepuram, Michelle understands the intricate use of fabrics and textures. She says, “In silk, I’ve used variations such as silk velvet, organza, chiffon, georgette, Bangalore silk, satin and crepe. For my collection, I was inspired by the jewel colours of India, such as fuchsia, deep purple, ferozi blue which I’ve incorporated in my outfits along with gold and silver accents.”