Direct from an emperor`s wardrobe

New Delhi: Long free-flowing multi-coloured silhouettes such as lehengas, saris, and shararas, embellished with intricate hand embroidery and sequin work reminded fashionistas on the opening day of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW) of the Mughal era that represented style and class.

Anupama Dayal`s show, titled Ishq-e-Dilli, not only presented a traditional modern woman who is independent and confident, but also highlighted rich Islamic art and Mughal traditions. "Though I am from Calcutta, but I am living in Delhi since last 10 years. Delhi`s rich history and culture fascinates me. Before I started working on my collection, I read extensively about Mughal era," said Dayal who was herself looking stunning in a multi-coloured ethnic attire. "I even visited several beautiful palaces across the country to know more about the people and their lifestyles," she added. Dayal has discovered that today`s women prefer "light weight silhouettes" that look pretty and are easy to carry. "Therefore, I have made sure not to use heavy embroidery and created designs that look bold yet elegant," she added. Dayal has mostly used fabrics like pure silk, georgette and crape. "I bought the fabrics from Kolkata. We have weavers back there who create fabrics and do embroidery. My main aim always remains the same - to help weavers" she said. The collection is perfect for the upcoming summer spring season. Light weight fabrics and bright colours in shades of red, orange, peach and yellow will enhanced the beauty and elegance of women. "My collection is perfect for destination weddings. It has both traditional and western elements. Like short cholis, backless blouses, long slits and cuts are inspired from western fashion while the prints, embroidery and colours are taken from the Mughal era. "Nowadays, couple prefer varied destinations like Bali, Sri Lanka, Goa to get married and therefore they prefer attires that have traditional and modern elements," said Dayal. When asked about the price bracket, she said: "It starts from Rs.25,000 and and goes upto lakh." IANS