Nilanjan
Lakme Fashion Week, one of India’s most prestigious fashion events, opened its doors to a spectacular display of designer creations. The highlight of the evening was Raw Mango’s exquisite showcase, a departure from the usual showstopper tradition.
In a splendid fashion spectacle, renowned Bollywood actors Karisma Kapoor, Saba Azad, and Kalki Koechlin took center stage as the muses for designer Sanjay Garg’s mesmerizing collection, ‘Children Of The Night,’ at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi, marking the commencement of Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI.
With a diverse lineup of more than 45 participants, this edition of Lakme Fashion Week 2023 promises to be grander than ever. The five-day-long fashion extravaganza unfolds at New Delhi’s Pragati Maidan and concludes with a stockroom sale featuring 80 stalls on the final day.
A Star-Studded ‘Not Showstopper’ Affair
The most striking aspect of the Raw Mango’s show at Lakme Fashion Week 2023 was the absence of showstoppers. Instead, the runway was graced by three celebrated personalities – Karisma Kapoor, Kalki Koechlin, and Saba Azad, who walked hand in hand with other models. This unique approach allowed the focus to remain on the dazzling, disco-themed handwoven Indian wear.
Raw Mango’s Vision Shined at Lakme Fashion Week 2023
Sanjay Garg, the founder and designer of Raw Mango, shared his appreciation for the support from these three stars. Karisma Kapoor, Kalki Koechlin, and Saba Azad all felt a deep connection with the brand’s ethos. They praised the raw materials and innovative designs that define Raw Mango’s unique appeal.
A Glimpse into Raw Mango’s Aesthetic
Raw Mango’s fashion collection draws inspiration from the vibrant colors, cultural traditions, and philosophies of India. The pieces are meticulously crafted by skilled artisans from regions such as Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Varanasi. Since 2008, Raw Mango has been exploring handloom techniques to create sarees, garments, and products that seamlessly blend Indian culture with a modern twist. Below are some the artistic piece that took all the limelight away:
- Karisma Kapoor’s Dazzling Ensemble
Karisma Kapoor turned heads with her ethnic look, featuring a full-sleeved kaftan jacket, layered over a metallic jumpsuit with flared bottoms. Her makeup, adorned with winged eyeliner, shimmery eyeshadow, and metallic lip color, perfectly complemented the ensemble. She praised Sanjay Garg for infusing glamor into his fabric.
- Kalki Koechlin’s Elegance
Kalki Koechlin exuded elegance in a one-shouldered pre-draped saree with a printed gray-toned top and a dark-hued pleated bottom. Her minimal makeup and accessory-freestyle added to the understated charm of her attire. According to Garg, the saree and blouse were meticulously woven on the loom, resulting in a unique “half saree.”
- Saba Azad’s Shimmery Style
Saba Azad graced the runway in a shimmery metallic co-ord set, featuring a sleeveless top with a metallic gold palette. Paired with loose-fit pants, the outfit incorporated “gota” and “banarasi” work. Her shimmery makeup and sleek hairstyle added a touch of glamor. She also resonated with the disco theme that felt like home to her.
Raw Mango’s “Children of the Night” Collection
Raw Mango’s Lakme Fashion Week collection, titled “Children of the Night,” encapsulated the energy of evening, with structured looks, shimmer, drapes, pleats, and a graceful aesthetic. The collection featured innovations in textiles, including brocade, kaleidoscopic weaves, and a range of glittering metallics.
Wrapping Up : A Night of Elegance and Poise
The opening night of Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI was a stunning and unconventional affair, thanks to Raw Mango’s ‘Children Of The Night” collection. Bollywood stars Karisma Kapoor, Saba Azad, and Kalki Koechlin added a touch of glamour to the event, not as traditional showstoppers but as integral parts of the runway, symbolizing a fresh approach to fashion shows.
Designer Sanjay Garg’s vision to seamlessly integrate celebrities into the show’s flow was met with resounding success, emphasizing the need to rethink the concept of the “celebrity showstopper.” This move highlights a global trend, offering a more immersive and inclusive fashion experience.
Furthermore, Saba Azad’s mention of Benaras artisans contributing to the outfits showcased underlines the importance of preserving and revitalizing traditional craftsmanship.
With a diverse lineup and exciting events scheduled, Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI promises to be a grand fashion extravaganza, a testament to India’s ever-evolving fashion landscape. The blend of innovation, tradition, and star power guarantees a memorable event for fashion enthusiasts.
