Ace designer Gaurang’s shows have always been spectacular presentations and for Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2018 the designer pulled out all stops with his “Savitri” collection inspired by the legendary South Indian star Savitri, who was one of the greatest icons of the Tamil, Telegu, Kannada and Malayalam film industries.
Honoured with the title “Mahanati” meaning ‘pride of actresses’, Gaurang had the opportunity of designing the costumes for the film “Mahanati” in May 2018 for the tri-lingual biopic on the actress, who was known for her great sense of style and glamour.
Gaurang brought in 100 artisans who worked tirelessly for over 18 months weaving amazing textiles for the film. Every rich fabric from Mangalgiri to Kota and then luxurious brocades, silks, organzas, hand woven sateens and chiffons came together to create the vision of beauty during the golden era of Savitri.
To the strains of yesteryear Bollywood chartbusters that created a nostalgic atmosphere, the show was a grand, memorable experience.
Gaurang’s Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2018 line was a respectful ode to that great actress as he unveiled South Indian silks in all their ultimate retro glamour. The rich jewel tones, which Savitri adorned were very much a part of the ensembles. The beauteous textiles glided down the catwalk draped on the elegant models that were aptly styled to match the mood of the show. The rich Kanjivaram silks, which the great actress loved, were once again seen shimmering radiantly under the ramp lights in intricate weaves.
From a bevy of swirling anarkalis, full flared kurtas and flowing shararas, the show moved to the smorgasbord of saris in every shade and hue with the most sensational weaves and motifs to delight the hearts of the traditional dressers.
For the finale, Gaurang moved away from the usual and brought in the very graceful and beautiful ballet dancer Pia Sutaria who pirouetted down the ramp to the foot-tapping tune of the hit song Mud Mud Ke Nache from the block buster movie ‘Shree 420’.
Pushing the clock back into time, Gaurang’s “Savitri” collection was a grand memorable offering that was a fitting ode to the lady and would be treasured items in every woman’s wardrobe.