Birds of Paradise

Birds of Paradise

Veteran  fashion designer Rohit Bal who began his career some 19 years ago  went beyond the conventional bridal wear and dazzled the Capital’s fashion fraternity, with a stunning couture collection titled Husn-e-Taa’iraat, or beauty of the bird at the Amazon India Couture Week 2015. Known for being a perfectionist Bal went all the way to secure real apple and pomegranate trees in order to enhance the beauty of his stunning collection which portrayed the spirit of grandeur and regality.

The champagne helped in increasing the spirits of the guests as did the playful tunes of the live pianist and cellist, who kept playing all through the fashion show. Dressed in chic maxi coats over floor length angrakhas, in shades of cream with white flowers made of cloth formed clusters on tilted headbands and frilled collaret around their necks, the models resembled the famous 18^th century Italian character Pierrot. The embroidery showcased birds in flight was so precise that it almost seemed as if one was looking at a photograph.

The models looked regal and gracious as they walked down the ramp. They even presented a theatrical drama for those present in the hall, holding filled flute glasses, posing on round elevated stages and sitting on guests laps. Some models like Noyonika Chatterjee , Sonalika Sahay, Carol Gracias and Tamara Moss went as far as flirting with the designer himself.

The next round of ensembles showcased Bal’s fascination with using rich fabrics by presenting the models in contrasting color of black velvets with vibrant embroidery and brocade inner lining. The women’s collection focused mainly on varying lengths and cuts, angrakhas, saris, and full length lehenga skirts while men’s wear was more oriented towards smart bandhgalas and Jodhpur pants with embroidered slip-on shoes. Inspired by the traditional colors of bridal wear model Rikee Chatterjee was clad in a deep maroon lehenga –choli set with gold and red embroidery on it pairing it with a pink brocade dupatta drape.

The loud applause whistles and hoots from the audience spoke of the success that met the show. The designer was also praised and congratulated by FDCI president Sunil Sethi and ace couturier Sabyasachi Mukherjee.

In his statement to the press the designer paid tribute to the artisans and the craftsmen of the country as well to the beauty of the flora and fauna that found expression in the Indian decorative arts and were the theme of his new collection.