Fashion
International Fashion Designer Comes To India
Premal Badiani, after her recent display of work at the NYFW will now be displaying her work at a multi-designer store in Mumbai
Words: FWD Media Images: Various sources
US-based Indian fashion designer Premal Badiani, who recently showcased her collection at New York Fashion Week & Porsche Runway 2017 will now be available at Mumbai’s multi-designer stores – Kimaya and FUEL. The brand is an Indian-International brand with heart and soul like no other.
Kimaya and FUEL are two of Mumbai’s largest multi designer fashion stores that bring some of the world’s best fashion labels to India. Kimaya has 16 stories in total, and brings collections of more than 180 designers under one roof providing the perfect opportunity for fashionistas to indulge in fine Indian fashion. FUEL is an upmarket fashion and lifestyle store. It houses prêt, diffusion, home accessories, fashion jewellery, handbags, sarees and designer menswear spread over 5000 sq. ft.
It is synonymous with sophisticated drama, feminine motifs, unabashed grandeur and contemporary structure with romantic, corseted silhouettes to regal traditional designs. The brand is known for its craftsmanship with high-end, fashion forward designs with fluidity, elegance and glamour for both men & women. Fine silhouettes, defined cuts, sequinned outfits, intricate work and classy colours are the mainstay of the clothes. Moreover, the brand ensures that the only the best material is used for each garment whether exotic pure cotton, chiffon or even the exquisite trimmings which are sourced from around the world.
However in an industry where it’s easy to get self-absorbed when it comes to fashion, the fashion brand is one that has a lot of ‘heart’ and focuses on raising awareness on world issues other than just selling clothes. Premal with her continued patronage and expertise using eco-friendly fabrics, has set the stage for a fashion revolution where designs now have a ‘conscience’. The collection –‘Root Cause –clothes made from wood pulp’ that she showcased at New York Fashion Week on 14th February, 2017 was her first step to raise global awareness on the human impact on the environment.
The brand also supports education for girls, raising funds for The National Brain Tumour Society, working towards safeguarding rights of children through sponsoring education and livelihood for underprivileged kids. The brand continuously works with charity associations and not-for-profit organizations to give back to the society, both in India and the US. Premal Badiani believes that it doesn’t matter if you are an individual who is an entrepreneur, a fashion brand or just someone with the willingness – we all can make a difference even in the smallest way if the intention is right.
The brand epitomizes global glamour with an Indian sensibility, featuring meticulously crafted designs ranging from understated to opulent.Driven by artistic, modern and luxurious design and style, couture-like quality and a high level of customer service, the label Premal Badiani holds an impeccable customer appeal.It is a great opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to now visit Kimaya and Fuel in Mumbai to pick up their very own Premal Badiani outfit.
Premal Badiani commented by saying, “I am very happy that my Indian consumers now have easy access to my collection. Kimaya and Fuel are some of the biggest multi-designer fashion stores in India & we as a brand are overwhelmed to have our collection there. We are looking forward to a great response from Mumbai”.
Fashion
The Year of Statement Hat
When Anya Taylor-Joy stepped out at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in Jacquemus’ Le Chapeau Bomba, a delightfully oversized raffia hat it was clear that this accessory had become the season’s ultimate statement piece. The fall 2024 runways echoed this sentiment, with Chanel and Prada showcasing hats as the new must-have. Think of Sarah Jessica Parker’s oversized Maryam Keyhani creation, worn on the set of And Just Like That… earlier this year, or Margaret Qualley donning Chanel’s nautical style at Cannes. These hats are for the main characters who command attention, making a bold statement long before you arrive.
Altuzarra’s fall 2024 collection featured boxy headpieces on some models, each designed to evoke a specific character. “It was about finding joy in wearing a complete look, fully embodying a character,” explains designer Joseph Altuzarra. Interestingly, this was the label’s first foray into hats beyond casual knit and woven styles. ‘We didn’t plan to sell them,’ Altuzarra admits, ‘but they ended up being a hit.
Similarly, milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara has experienced a surge in demand. Although she launched her brand, Gigi Burris, in 2012, she only opened her first store late last year. “During leaner times, when people become more selective with their spending, they seek joy in thoughtful purchases,” she explains.
After years of embracing a more casual style, we’re now gravitating toward all things expressive. Maximalist content creator Sara Camposarcone has been embracing pieces from small brands like Potion23, renowned for its whimsical, witchy hats. “I feel like I can now wear bolder headpieces that complement my extravagant outfits,” Camposarcone shares. “Since discovering vintage fashion, I’ve developed a passion for finding great vintage pillbox hats or a 1920s fascinator.”
Fashion
The Iconic Bags and Their Names
Handbags are more than just functional accessories; they are statements of style and symbols of status. Over the years, several handbags have achieved iconic status, becoming synonymous with luxury and timeless fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic bags and the stories behind their names.
Hermès Birkin
Origin: The Birkin bag was born from a chance encounter between actress and singer Jane Birkin and Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in 1981. Birkin mentioned her struggle to find a perfect weekend bag, leading Dumas to design a bag tailored to her needs.
Icon Status: The Birkin is known for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and high price tag. It has become a symbol of wealth and luxury, often with a waiting list of years.
Chanel 2.55
Origin: Created by Coco Chanel in February 1955 (hence the name), the Chanel 2.55 was revolutionary for its time, introducing the concept of a shoulder bag, freeing women from the inconvenience of clutch bags.
Icon Status: With its quilted leather, chain strap, and distinctive CC lock (added in the 1980s by Karl Lagerfeld), the 2.55 remains a timeless piece, beloved by fashionistas worldwide.
Louis Vuitton Speedy
Origin: Introduced in the 1930s, the Speedy was designed as a smaller version of the Louis Vuitton Keepall. It became particularly popular in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn requested a smaller version, leading to the creation of the Speedy 25.
Icon Status: Known for its classic monogram canvas and practicality, the Speedy is a versatile bag that has remained a staple in the fashion world for decades.
Dior Lady Dior
Origin: First presented in 1994, the Lady Dior bag was initially known as “Chouchou.” It gained its iconic status when Princess Diana was photographed with it in 1995, leading to its renaming in her honor.
Icon Status: The bag’s signature cannage stitching and dangling Dior charms make it instantly recognizable. It’s a favorite among celebrities and royalty, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.
Gucci Jackie
Origin: Originally called the Fifties Constance, this bag was renamed the Jackie after Jackie Kennedy was frequently photographed carrying it in the 1960s.
Icon Status: The Jackie bag’s hobo shape and piston strap closure make it a timeless piece. It has seen numerous revivals and remains a classic in the Gucci lineup.
Prada Galleria
Origin: Named after the historic Prada boutique in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Galleria bag epitomizes the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Icon Status: With its clean lines, structured shape, and Saffiano leather, the Galleria bag is a symbol of modern elegance and understated luxury.
Fendi Baguette
Origin: Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, the Baguette was named for its shape, resembling the French baguette loaf, and designed to be carried under the arm.
Icon Status: Popularized by its appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City,” the Baguette became a must-have accessory, famous for its countless variations in colors and materials.
Balenciaga City
Origin: Introduced in the early 2000s, the Balenciaga City bag, also known as the Motorcycle bag, was designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. Its casual yet chic design quickly gained a cult following.
Icon Status: Known for its slouchy silhouette, distinctive hardware, and tassels, the City bag became an icon of the 2000s and continues to be a beloved piece.
These iconic bags have transcended fashion trends, becoming enduring symbols of style, craftsmanship, and luxury. Each bag tells a unique story, adding to its allure and making it a coveted piece for fashion enthusiasts around the world. Investing in one of these iconic bags is not just about owning a stylish accessory but also a piece of fashion history.
Cover Story
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s Traditional Ladakh’s Heritage Attire
As Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivities come to an end, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja chose to dress in Ladakh traditional garb. The event featured a number of topics, with India’s rich past being the focus yesterday night. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja emphasized this by dressing in Namza Couture, which was established in 2016 by Padma Yangchan and Jigmet Disket and is renowned for its commitment to Ladakhi fabrics.
The Mogos, a gown-like item with a shimmering zari border and pistachio green brocade, was part of Sonam’s ensemble. She wore a rani-pink shawl called a “Bok,” which is usually made from silk or goat skin and is worn to keep warm by the locals. This outfit was made of silk by Benaras artisans, and it had intricate phoenix embroidery, which stands for knowledge and vigor. It also had a crane image, which stands for prosperity and peace.
Her jewelry selections also honored custom; she wore a neckpiece set with diamonds and an emerald stone in the center. She accessorized this with striking statement rings and copper handcuffs, all tastefully matched with pearl earrings. She chose metallic juttis to complete her look, and she carried a bespoke purse by re-ceremonial.
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