Lakme Fashion Week, in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), concluded with a poignant grand finale by designer Rohit Bal, leaving a lasting impression on India’s fashion history. The event, held at the Imperial hotel in New Delhi, was charged with emotion as the fashion community rallied around the acclaimed designer, affectionately known as Gudda, following a period of health challenges.
Bal’s collection, “Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe,” showcased his signature grandeur and vibrant motifs, including flowing silhouettes, layered tiers, and an abundance of roses. The show was a testament to Bal’s enduring creativity and resilience.
The bittersweet atmosphere was further amplified by the music, ranging from a heart-rending violin performance to joyous pop hits that provided an unexpected yet fitting closure to the fashion week. The event was held at the historic Imperial hotel, a unique venue choice known for its elegance and central location on Janpath.
Fellow designers and attendees expressed a mix of nostalgia, admiration, and joy at Bal’s return to the runway. His show was a celebration of his long-standing contributions to the Indian fashion industry and his inspirational influence on fellow designers. Bal’s showstopper, Ananya Panday, the face of House of Lakme, shared the stage with the designer, adding to the emotional resonance of the finale.
Jaspreet Chandhok, group vice president of Reliance Brands Ltd., and Sunil Sethi, chairman of FDCI, played crucial roles in organizing the event and supporting Bal throughout the process. Their leadership has been instrumental in the recent success of Lakme Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, establishing a shared calendar space for fashion events in Mumbai and New Delhi.
Lakme Fashion Week also served as a platform for emerging designers to showcase their talent and gain recognition. Several designers caught the attention of fashion watchers and buyers with their innovative creations and unique perspectives.
Aneeth Arora, the founder of Péro, presented a collection that highlighted the brand’s focus on handcrafted textiles and experimental designs. Péro, meaning “to wear” in the Rajasthani language of Marwari, has gained international recognition for its unique approach to fashion, blending traditional techniques with innovative designs. The brand’s collaboration with Sanrio for Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary set the tone for the fashion week with its playful and nostalgic elements.
Ritwik Khanna’s sustainable fashion label, Rkive City, won the Circular Design Challenge, a significant highlight of Lakme Fashion Week. The challenge, supported by organizations like R|Elan, the United Nations in India, and the British Council, recognizes designers who prioritize circularity and sustainability in their creations. Khanna’s brand addresses the issue of textile waste by repurposing and transforming discarded materials into new garments.
Ankur Verma, the designer behind Til, garnered attention after winning The Spotlight by Nexa award. His innovative use of textures and layering techniques captivated the audience. Verma’s background in theater and art, combined with his experience working with renowned designer Sabyasachi, has shaped his unique design aesthetic. His collection at Lakme Fashion Week showcased his ability to transform fashion into a medium for expressive storytelling.
