Gaurang Shah Weaves the Earthy Element at LFW 2016

One of few designers that I was looking forward to this season is the master of weaves, Gaurang. His exquisite handcrafted masterpieces that have a huge jamdani influence is a rare technique that is used in the current times, especially because it takes over 2 years to weave depending on the design, colour mix and intricacy. So even before you actually land a piece it is an heirloom piece, making it a very desirable piece of art one can even wear. 

The range of sarees he puts together are a fusion of yarns like khaki, mugs silk, hussar silk, organza and silk. Bringing back the discontinued technique of weaving with no machine work Jamdani, is kept under the warp in the loom and is replicated by the weaver to the finest details with floral and geometrics references drawn from nature. In kanjeevaram sarees, the korvai weaving technique on the jacquard loom is revived with traditional motifs inspired by the temple art of the 16th century. The sarees and dresses created under the banner is textile art that is an amalgamation of traditional motifs with contemporary textures. 

At his show on Day 2 of Lakmé Fashion Week Summer Resort 2016 vintage silhouettes and traditional textiles worked in tandem to bring out majestic earthly colours. Aptly titled Calico, the collection showcased an exquisite range of Indian wear especially saris, crafted to display a fusing handwoven textiles like khadi, muga silk and organza with the jamdani technique. A combination of motifs that ranged from Mughal floral elements to paithani designs.

The show was buzzing with live music by Manasi Scott and her band while models strutted down the ramp. The showcase had a display of saris along with other Indian outfits that reminded me of the Belle Epoch era with puffed up and ruffle-sleeved blouses after a series of dramatic floor-grazing gowns in nudes and delicate morning hues. The sharp pleats and dramatic ruffles were a refreshing break during the season with a spectacular Spanish twist.

Another aspect of the show that I loved was Carol Gracias looking as gorgeous as ever with her baby bump and kudos to the team to taking a step in breaking fashion week stereo-types and carving a path for all women alike. 

Just as his collection was inspired with natural elements of life, the range of LYF Mobile phones too is inspired by natural elements… Earth, Water, Wind and Flame. I am covering this fashion week using the Earth phone that unleashes the photographer in me. With a dual camera of 13MP + 2MP, the phone ensures vivid pictures even at night. The breath-taking detail with ChromaFlash, Re-Focus, Fast Focus, and OptiZoom adds life to images and even allows to edit and perfect photos with intuitive tools. Apart from this the phone comes with marathon 3500 mAh battery which is a desirable piece of technology one can use. 

- Heena