Giant spheres covered with marigolds and lit diya lamps hung from the ceiling and set the mood for the opening show at HDIL India Couture Week 2010, while silver arches glittered on the sides of the walls and rows of lamps were a perfect backdrop for Manish Malhotra’s fantastic Couture Bridal Collection that left the audience spellbound. Opening the show with a splendid white luxurious floor-length net kurta with a seductive cutaway back, Manish unleashed a line of creations that were not only breathtaking to behold but beautiful wedding wear for brides and grooms.
Presenting collections in colours which ranged from white to flame red, then maroon, wine and finally jade green, the lehengas were tiered or panelled and edged with velvet or brocade borders while the cholis were tiny and sexy.
Saris were often shaded net with detailing like pin tucks, velvet lehengas with antique gold zardozi work and glittering crystals were edged with gold or silver giant tassels. Kalidar kurtas floated over full circle lehengas or over velvet embroidered ejars. Shaded Spanish-style tiered lehengas swirled on the ramp and the Raja coats over tunics teamed with harem pants were stunning.
Menswear was as ornate with sherwanis and kurtas with interesting front openings, Raja coats, bundgalas with lavish embroidery on velvet or in gold brocade worn with cowled salwars or Turkish pants making a great impact for the groom who wants to make a stylish entry on his big day.
The jewellery by Anmol was a feast for the eyes as intricate kundan, ruby and pearl necklaces, earrings and bangles glittered on the models and were a perfect complement to the bridal wear.
The show stopper was Aishwariya Rai Bachchan in a sensational white corset blouse teamed with a white kalidar lehenga and dupatta, splashed with giant antique zari paisleys.
