Mumbai fashion week honours Gaurang for utilisation of Indian weaves and craftsmanship in his winter festive collection
A jury panel that included fashion heavyweights Krishna Mehta, Jaya Jaitly, Anjana Sharma and Maximiliano Modesti has picked Hyderabad-based designerr Gaurang as the best designer to feature Indian weaves in his collection on Indian Textile Day that was held on August 5 at Lakme Fashion – Winter Festive 2012.
Gaurang Shah presented Kanjeevarams with Kalamkari in his collection called ‘Ardhangini’. The line of 23 ensembles was a mix of sarees, anarkalis and ghagras for the modern bride, in colours like saffron, yellow, orange, red and pink. Inspired by the Panchatantra stories, the beauty of 1950s and 1960s Kanjeevarams, Kalamkari and zardozi, his creations highlighted intricate Korvai weaving known for its grace and elegance. Gaurang used animal motifs and bright hues on Kanjeevaram silks and Kalamkari prints with brocades, with intricate zari and silk weave. Actress Kirron Kher walked the ramp as his showstopper in a rich ivory brocade saree.
“I am delighted to have won this prestigious award, which highlights the excellence of Indian handloom and tradition in fashion. I would like to dedicate this award to my family for their support and to the 450 weavers who bring life to my creativity,” says the designer.
When embroidered chiffons and georgettes were in vogue, Shah focused on the revival of traditional Jamdani craftsmanship. In the process, he created work opportunities for nearly 450 talented weavers across villages in Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu.
Says fashion entrepreneur Maximiliano Modesti, “It’s essential to support the young generation of fashion designers as they are the ones who will take the Indian fashion identity forward and support the craft of this country.”
Purnima Lamba, head – Innovations, Lakme said, “Hearty congratulations to Gaurang for hisbrilliant vision and execution of Indian weaves for Indian Textile Day this season. We encourage all designers to continue to experiment and use rich Indian fabrics to create stunning designs that do our fashion industry proud.”
Gaurang will receive a prize of 1 lakh rupees to support and encourage his talent.
source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / Home> Life & Style> Fashion> Designers / by Kasmin Fernandes, TNN / August 12th, 2012