Oriental charms

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As Prada clad models strutted the runway at the Milan Fashion Week Spring Summer 2013, the tell tale signs clearly indicated a trendy wind blowing from the land of the rising sun. With body-hugging satin skirts, origami-style folds, kimono shapes, tabi socks and geisha-inspired platform footwear, Japan clearly featured in the famed Italian fashion houses.
“In a master stroke, fashion designer Miuccia Prada has turned what is conventionally considered more of a region-centric style into a global trend,” says designer Mona Lamba.
Explaining the transformation, she says, “In stark black and white with a limited version of red, moss green, steel grey, pale pink and ivory, the collection simplifies the traditional Japanese style and presents them as short and knee length tunic dresses in silks and satins. The dresses usually have a lone flower motif for company, at the most they extend to a pair or a scattered few. On closer look, they resemble daisies in prominent size. Prominent being judo style back belts, kimono-inspired off shoulder jackets and folded skirts,” she explains.
Confirming the current mood, designer Nidhi Munim says, “A lot of designers have already adapted Japanese over-sized silhouettes in their collections, and it has been a successful classic trend. Be it loose-fitted structured garments, or just Japanese wood-block prints, it’s a trend to watch out for in the global fashion scenario. I would certainly implement the beautiful cherry blossom print of Japan in my collections to add to its elegance. Prints should include the most enduring symbols of Japan — the geisha and the cherry blossom print.”
“Kimono sleeves are already used in long kurtas, the origami folds can be converted into the under bust section of anarkalis or used in texturing the sleeves for simple kurtas. The colour combinations are hinting at summer’s arrival. This trend will give a quick change from the regular straight cuts and short sleeve dresses,” she adds.
Mrunal lets out a warning though. “The fact of the matter is, one can easily go wrong with this style, especially in terms of the colours and cuts. The placement has a lot of relevance, so keep in mind that it has to be made in the right manner and the folds should be placed on designs to enhance a pattern and not just to display some hasty work. Go for kimono style summer jackets, they are in vogue and easy to flaunt,” recommends the designer.\