Vallaya, Alpana-Neeraj’s resplendence draws curtains on AIFW

NEW DELHI: Young duo Alpana-Neeraj’s modern sensibilities enriched by royalty and richness of ace designer JJ Vallaya gave fashion lovers a befitting treat as the five-day long Amazon India Fashion Week came to an end.
The collection titled, “Guru Shishya,” parr of ‘Indian Modern Festive,’ celebrated bridal ensemble in its full glory.
The colourful lehengas, long skirts, gowns and sherwanis put up a stunning show.
The bling and the bright colour palette were among the highlights of the collection as it brought a much-needed change from the otherwise monochrome and subtle colour range that other designers presented during the fashion extravaganza.
Another attractive point was the use of velvet, which drew applause from the audience, as the models walked sporting dupattas in the fabric.
When asked if velvet has made a comeback, Vallaya told reporters post the show, “Velvets are huge! I don’t think they ever got out of fashion but this time they are coming and in a big way. In fact, metallic is also coming back!”
The collection was divided into three parts– the royal and antique one, second one made use of metallic, mirror work and gotas and third one went into nomadic and a lot of experimentation.
Vallaya said if designers don’t celebrate Indian craft then it’s their loss.
“That’s what you saw—India Modern and India Festive. And when you combine it becomes ‘Indian Modern Festive’. The whole spirit of the show was that there is so much talent in India that co-exists and there’s a platform for everyone to show what India is…
“Whether it’s going back or forward or living in the present. It was a celebration of India. Though these two sell most of their work outside India but that’s going to change after this show.”
Alpana said while the spirit in their collections is always Indian, this time they went “overtly Indian festive” and they loved it.
The colour palette included rich shares of blue, red, green, gold and black.
It was a true ‘Guru Shishya’ moment when Alpana Neeraj couldn’t stop gushing about Vallaya and the much-senior in all humility requested the media to back the youngsters.
“I am very happy that I got to work with Vallaya sir. There’s so much to learn and imbibe from him. We are very lucky,” Neeraj said.
To which the veteran replied, “This is sheer talent, guys. You should back them to the hilt!” (AGENCIES)