February 2020 Issue Apparel February 2020 issue | Page 112

more. Many lehengas today do not only feature
the most
mo exotic embroidery but also a never-
ending train at the back that resembles the look
wedding gown, as visualised by
of a Western
W
designer Manish Malhotra. At times, the crinoline
design
under the lehenga, as showcased by designers
Falguni and Shane Peacock, turn it into a piece
Falgun
can be likened to one that Cinderella wore
that ca
when she waltzed with Prince Charming.
CHOL CHIC
CHOLI
While the lehenga silhouette is always floor-
kissing with a flowing or fitted look, it’s the choli
that has
ha moved from a staid, short-sleeved,
waist-length blouse with front buttons to an array
waist-
options.
of mind-boggling
min
The
Th necklines have been given the most
attention, with ‘V’, square, round, sweetheart,
atten
oval, and off-shoulder forms being the top
oval
choices. More daring looks start with the
cho
104
I APPAREL I
February 2020
@Manish
FASHION SPEAK
strappy bustier version, going onto corsets and
bralettes. On the other side of the spectrum,
sleeves move from cap to bell, balloon, and
one-shoulder to leg of mutton, three-quarter,
and finally long; kimono, butterfly, and poncho
styles are some more innovations. The choli could
turn into a mini cape or appear in the form of a
hip-length, mini kurta, and at times, even as a
jacket. Tiny boleros on the choli are a rare sight
but extremely striking in appearance, while ruffles,
feathers, and frills add a flirty edge to the creation.
The use of strategically placed net on the choli
to give the illusion of bare skin, too, adds to the
drama and glamour.
Another experimentation comes in the form of
fake sleeves that are designed to create an overall
unconventional look. Designers such as Monisha
Jaising even take to the off-the-beaten track and
team a lehenga with a plain white shirt and a
stylish business jacket.