Apparel March 2020 Apparel March 2020 issue | Page 37

FEATURE Thanks to wedding seasons, it has now become easier for Indians to accept bolder colours that summon a more dramatic look. Uncommon shades such as pearl white, ivory, grey, lilac, plum and beige have taken precedence over the more traditional shades such as typical red, pink, and orange. Consumers, especially brides are bravely trying them on for their big day. Sarees with ruffles, layers, and sheerness, in eye- catching colours, and lightweight bridal lehengas with feathers and tiers, are eventually becoming the talk of the town. The elaborate western gown has been combined with traditional Indian sensibilities leading to glamorous new outfits and elegant bridal pieces. Zardozi, kamdani, badla work with sequins add further pizzazz to them. However, www.themaharanidiaries.com, states that, “Flower power continues to reign. The flower game just gets bigger and better, season after season. It is stubborn enough to not go out of style and remains as fresh as ever. Some powerhouse designers such as Tarun Tahiliani, Raul Mishra, Suneet Verma, Gaurav Gupta, and Shyamal and Bhumika continue to add intricate flower embellishments and embroideries to their luxurious and modern pieces.” INDIAN FOLK TINTS India is rehauling ancient traditional crafts and textiles. Khadi has become hugely popular along with malkha, kalamkari, ajrakh and other handloom variants. Chanderi and hand-block prints that use natural colours, though evergreen, are growing more popular with the everyday Indian. Though indigo still reigns, other colours like yellow are also becoming popular. IN TREND THIS YEAR A lot of bright colours are making their way into wedding outfits. These include crimson, KHADI HAS BECOME HUGELY POPULAR ALONG WITH MALKHA, KALAMKARI, AJRAKH AND OTHER HANDLOOM VARIANTS burgundy, emerald and turquoise. These bright colours were never part of the wedding trousseau. Even men’s achkans, sherwanis and in some cases jackets get tailored in such bright- coloured brocades. Last years’ trends of wearing dark green, sage green, yellow, black, and pink will be further reinforced this year as will bold embroideries. Floral designs have always been part of the Indian palette and this will continue to get louder and stronger this year. Blue being the colour of the year, will be seen doing the rounds in all types of markets along with tropical colours and neutral colours. Indian tie and dyes, shibori and other variations should also take off. APPAREL I March 2020 I 35