All set to steam up the haute scene

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Designer Astha Narang, a graduate from Pearl Academy, who has already done a fashion reality show, says, “Reality show was a different thing, but to showcase in a concept like this is better. It gives ample exposure to newcomers and somehow designing a limited collection for selective buyers stands a chance that your talent will be noticed by the right people.” Astha is preparing a collection in abstract 3D forms, which are created by use of pleats and draping. “I have done double pleating in my garments to give them lot of folds and movement. The palette would be cold colours like blues, greys and greens,” she says.
Dhruv Kapur, a graduate from the London School of Economics and Political Science, is all excited about his first outing in the fashion world. “I feel honoured and anxious at the same time. This will be the first time I’ll be doing a proper show though I have been running my own label for sometime now. I feel the advantage of doing a ramp collection is that you get exposure, and in return, people start recognising you as a new brand,” says Dhruv, who is happy to begin on a smaller platform. “The best part is that you get your own show slot which is not shared with anyone. It gives you enough creative freedom,” he says, adding that his collection will be all about a masculine summer, full of black and whites.
On their third outing at Lakmé through Talent Box, budding designer duo Pranav Mishra and Shyma Shetty feel they have become a pro now. “Our confidence has increased in the last two years and we are happy with the limited exposure we get. People who know our work make sure to attend the show,” says Pranav, who feels a small show helps them keep their collection exclusive. “We do our best in the 12 garments we showcase. The number is enough for buyers to understand our design aesthetics,” says he.
His colleague Shyma adds, “After doing two seasons at the Talent Box, we know our hold. This time we are doing more of grounded, softer stuff with feminine undertones. We are doing silhouettes inspired by Indian designs. You’d see lungi trousers and drape saris in powder blue, English green in our collection.”