For the Spring/Summer edition of any fashion week across the globe, the runways are awash with bright oranges, fresh greens, psychedelic pinks and spunky neons. But when black makes an appearance, it’s greeted with shock and awe! With black on one side and cheerful hues on the other, it’s a tough call for a designer, but the pull of black seems hard to resist. At the ongoing WLIFW, a few of these dare-to-be-different types have tried to tell the story of black through their collections and impressed we are. It could have been a big risk for SS, but black is an instant sell-out, all say in unison.

In recent times, science and technology are influencing the textiles, printing, colour and shapes in a big way.

As the plot thickens and WLIFW starts today, designers are stepping up with drama and more drama on the ramp as presentation seems to be the catchphrase. So apart from the clothes there will a lot more emphasis on accessories, interesting headgear, live performances, stirring music, quirky shoes and props, elaborate sets, distinct use of lights, crazy choreography and impressive make-up among other things to etch the shows in your mind.

While parting ways is definitely painful, it is not the end of the world. In fact, for some it opens the door for new beginnings. And then celebrate they do!

It was their like-mindedness and an urge to merge their thoughts that brought young entrepreneurs Mandira Lamba and Ridhi Bhalla together to give birth to their new art venture, Blueprint 12. The pop art gallery hosts private previews where artists and viewers/collectors are given an opportunity to have detailed discussions about their work.

In this age of innovation and technology-driven times, it feels good to be revisiting our roots. One such example of this reverse passage is this new concept of developing wonder fabrics that contain tiny packets of goodness in the form of herbs and essential oils, which when in contact with body heat and wear slowly release their fragrance and medicinal benefits.

Language is a dynamic thing. It doesn’t exist in isolation. Nor does it remain static. It changes with the times. A latest study reveals that more than half of Bollywood movies released during the last two years carried English words in their title. In 2011, 73 out of 131 movies released used English words.

They have an aura of regal style yet their designs are very today. They say that it’s the only way to preserve the heritage and create a legacy as no design will work if it fails to have contemporary resonance. Meet the present day scions of the Indian royal families who are presenting the rich heritage of India in a contemporary avatar through wildlife sketches, paintings, quilts, silver jewellery in modern patterns, attractive stationery items among other interesting things at the Royal Fables exhibition in the city.

We all are aware of this short man’s big world of words, but author Vikram Seth’s love for art is largely unknown. However, those who are close to the suitable boy inform that Seth had shown keen interest in art during his Doon days, the credit for which goes to his art teacher, Rathin Mitra. Seth has also sculpted in bronze, stone, clay, plaster and wood.

Social media is a large melting pot of people’s thoughts, joys and frustrations. While it gives the users a platform to share their joyous moments, feelings of loss, connect with like-minded people, it sometimes lets them indulge in outbursts of anger and resentment as well.