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Nykaaland concludes debut Delhi edition; Indian, Korean beauty take centre-stage

Amid a season filled with music festivals and concerts, Nykaaland 2025, the third edition of the beauty festival concluded its debut in Delhi this weekend at NSIC Grounds, Okhla with music, and creativity too. The festival saw approximately over 30,000 beauty enthusiasts, over 60 global and homegrown brands and over 3,000 icons including celebrities, India’s leading celebrity makeup artists, and creators,  Co-produced by Nykaa and BookMyShow Live, the three-day festival saw the likes of YSL Beauty, Armani Beauty, Carolina Herrera, Dolce & Gabbana Beauty, Supergoop!, MILK Makeup, TIRTIR and Kylie Cosmetics — alongside Indian innovators such as Kay Beauty, LovETC, Sammmm, ThriveCo, Minimalist, Nykaa Cosmetics, Moi by Nykaa, Dot & Key, Nykaa Wanderlust, Earth Rhythm, and Swiss Beauty.  For consumers seeking efficacy and ingredient-led rituals, the festival also brought out the K-wave from Seoul for Korean Beauty lovers with the likes of Laneige, Beauty of Joseon, Sulwhasoo, Ryo, and, Mise En Scène. Fashion joined the celebration with Nykd by Nykaa and H&M. Speaking about the debut in Delhi, Anchit Nayar, executive director and CEO, Nykaa Beauty, highlighted how the scale, engagement, and enthusiasm that was witnessed at the festival showcases how beauty in India is no longer just transactional; "it is experiential, cultural, and community driven," he added. Even Owen Roncon, who is the chief of business of live events at BookMyShow, said the city embraced the festival with a spirit that was bold, vibrant and unmistakably its own. This showed the city’s deep love for beauty, culture and self-expression found its perfect match in what the festival stands for. Watching audiences immerse themselves so wholeheartedly reaffirmed what the festival has always aimed to do, he added, continuing, "to create a space where creativity, identity and celebration come together in the most personal way.”

10 November,2025 07:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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The corporate celebration: A definitive guide to festive office fashion

Bringing the warmth and vibrancy of the festive season into a professional environment requires finesse. The perfect festive-formal look strikes a delicate balance between tradition, comfort, and contemporary elegance.  The idea is to celebrate the season with grace while keeping your look refined and wearable through the entire workday. Diwali may be over, but the festive season has Christmas and New Year, and design experts to share styling tips for you to shine at work.  The foundation: Fabric, comfort, and functionalitySince you'll be working all day, comfort should come first—but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the festive look. Ujjwala Singh, design manager at Rareism, stresses that fabrics that breathe and flow are essential. “Opt for linen-cotton blends, light silks, or modal fabrics—these offer structure with movement. For comfort and functionality, you can have stripped lurex insertion or soft foil subtle silver foils over linen. A fluid kurta with straight trousers, or a co-ord in muted festive hues, keeps you looking put-together while allowing you to stay comfortable all day,” she shares. Arun Kumar, head of design at Rare Rabbit, confirms the importance of breathability for men. He says, “If you're working all day, comfort should come first. A good-quality cotton shirt is your best bet. If you want something a little more elevated, go for a cotton-silk or linen-cotton blend. These fabrics have a slight sheen or texture that adds just the right amount of festive feel, without going overboard.” Colour and embellishment: Subtlety is opulenceHow does one incorporate traditional Diwali colours and light embellishments without looking too informal or overpowering? Singh suggests focusing on understated opulence while saying, “Festive dressing doesn’t always have to mean full-on sparkle. Think soft metallic accents, rich jewel tones, and refined textures. For instance, pair a deep emerald or sapphire blouse with neutral trousers or a muted gold skirt with a crisp ivory shirt. Choose fabrics like cotton silks or viscose blends that carry sheen without being flashy. We love matte finishes, minimal embroidery, and tone-on-tone detailing—they bring in festive warmth while staying boardroom-appropriate.” Kumar provides the male perspective, adding, “Traditional festive colours, like deep red, emerald, bright blue, work really well when used thoughtfully. You don’t have to go all-out; even a shirt in one of these shades can set the tone. A printed shirt with clean, graphic motifs or small floral patterns adds a festive edge without feeling too casual. Colour combinations like navy with red, or green with beige, can bring in personality while keeping things sharp.” The power of layers: Structuring the lookLayering is the simplest way to elevate your outfit from casual to chic and meet the formal requirements of the office dress code. Singh explains the transition, saying, “A structured jacket or cropped blazer instantly gives ethnic silhouettes a sharp, professional edge. Pair a solid kurta with a belted linen blazer, or a flowy printed dress with a minimalist overlay jacket—it is the easiest way to strike a balance between formal and festive.” Kumar highlights the sharpness a jacket provides, “A well-chosen jacket can instantly pull your festive look together. Pairing a printed or solid shirt with a tailored bandhgala, Nehru jacket, or a linen blazer adds structure and makes the outfit feel more put-together. It’s a simple layer that adds depth, brings balance to brighter shirts, and makes the overall outfit feel ready for both the workday and the Diwali mood.” The footwear factor: Comfort meets traditionAccording to Charru Sharrma, founder of House of Vitti India, festive footwear should perfectly complement ethnic-formal wear, striking a perfect balance between tradition, comfort, and contemporary elegance. Embroidered KolhapurisFor those pairing with straight-cut kurta sets or elegant cotton sarees, embroidered Kolhapuris bring a touch of tradition while still feeling minimal and sophisticated. Subtle tones like pastel pinks, muted golds, or tan shades work beautifully for daytime celebrations. Classic juttiFor versatility, classic juttis are truly timeless and can be paired with almost anything, from silk kurtas and stylish salwar suits to anarkalis. A soft shimmer or delicate embroidery instantly adds festive charm without compromising on comfort. Gold and silver juttis are always a safe and stylish choice for both daytime and night-time celebrations. Embroidered mulesIf you prefer a blend of modern design and traditional craft, embroidered mules pair beautifully with palazzo sets, kaftans, or ethnic-inspired dresses. Shades like beige, champagne, or soft blush add a graceful festive touch without being too over the top. Heeled sandalsFinally, for those who like a hint of height, minimal heeled sandals (1.5-inch and 2.5-inch) are perfect for co-ord sets and anarkalis. Look for elegant tone-on-tone styles, like Blush Reverie Heels (tone on tone colour), or lumi gold heels (gold on gold). These neutral tones add understated glam to any outfit while keeping you comfortable throughout the day. Transitioning the look post-workIf your outfit is more suitable for evening celebrations, a simple change can pivot the look. “If you are heading straight to an after-hours Diwali gathering, smart layering or accessory swaps do the trick. Swap your work blazer for an embroidered vest or metallic dupatta or simply add statement earrings and a bold lip to transition your outfit seamlessly,” suggests Singh. “When it’s time for the after-work gathering, bring along a lightweight jacket or a waistcoat. Adding this layer instantly sharpens the look and gives it a more festive vibe without needing a full outfit change,” shares Kumar. Elevate with accessoriesWhen you have a particularly subtle outfit, the right accessory can carry the entire festive weight of the look without requiring a full ethnic change. Designer duo Paridhi Patodia and Shrishti Agarwal, founders of Parishri Jewellery, share tasteful accessories to elevate your festive outfits.For women Statement brooch or pinA blazer or dress can be instantly elevated with a brooch featuring Indian-inspired designs—like lotuses, diyas, or peacock motifs. Gold tones or jewel-encrusted accents keep it festive yet formal. Elegant bangle or kadaA slim, minimalist kada or bangle in gold or rose gold—with subtle etching or filigree work—pairs beautifully with a Western outfit, offering a tasteful touch of tradition. Traditional stud earringsCompact jadau, pearl, or kundan-inspired studs can complement formal attire without being overwhelming, offering a refined nod to festive dressing.For men Pocket square with Indian motifsA silk pocket square featuring traditional Indian motifs—such as paisley, buti prints, or zari borders—can add a refined splash of colour and texture. Opt for festive yet formal shades like deep maroon, sapphire blue, or gold to make it both celebratory and appropriate for office. Cufflinks with ethnic detailingReplace plain cufflinks with designs that incorporate Indian craftsmanship—such as meenakari enamel work or motifs like diyas or elephants. These details add interest without compromising the formality of a tailored shirt and suit. Classic watch with a subtle twistChoose a timepiece that features a textured leather strap or a dial inspired by Indian architectural elements or textile patterns. It’s a minimal way to incorporate heritage into a daily essential.

07 November,2025 11:13 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai Agarwal
Anita Dongre flagship store in Beverly Hills, USA. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement

Anita Dongre opens Beverly Hills flagship store, marks a global milestone

Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre has become the first Indian designer to open a flagship store in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Spanning 3,000 sq. ft. on Wilshire Boulevard, the new boutique marks Dongre’s fourth international outpost after New York City and Dubai, further underscoring her growing global influence in promoting Indian craftsmanship. Inside, the space reflects the essence of modern-day Rajasthan. Hand-painted Pichhwai murals, embroidered textiles, bespoke wallpapers, and handcrafted furnishings come together to create an environment inspired by India’s artistic heritage. Each element has been made by artisans across the country, blending traditional craft with contemporary design. A notable feature of the store is a life-sized sculpture of an elephant matriarch and calf — part of The Great Elephant Migration, a global art initiative that advocates sustainability and indigenous craftsmanship. Created from invasive lantana weeds by Indian artisan communities, the installation draws attention to environmental and social consciousness through art. Speaking about the launch, Dongre said, “For me, bringing this store to Beverly Hills is more than just a milestone in fashion. It’s about honoring the hands of skilled women artisans and sharing their stories with the world.” The opening event was co-hosted by actor and producer Mindy Kaling and Never Have I Ever star Poorna Jagannathan, and attended by Jay Shetty, Payal Kadakia, Richa Moorjani, Deepica Mutyala, and Nidhi Sunil, among others. The evening highlighted Dongre’s blend of luxury and culture, where Indian artistry meets global design sensibilities. Known for her focus on sustainable fashion and the empowerment of rural women, Dongre has long championed India’s handloom and embroidery traditions. With the Beverly Hills flagship, she continues her effort to bring Indian design and craftsmanship to international audiences.

06 November,2025 12:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Buckingham Palace to stage largest-ever display of Queen Elizabeth II's fashion

The largest-ever exhibition of the late Queen Elizabeth II's fashion, including the opulent gowns she wore for her wedding and coronation, will go on display at Buckingham Palace next year to mark the centenary of her birth, officials said on Tuesday. The landmark royal exhibition will feature some 200 items -- about half of them never publicly displayed before -- that chart the monarch's life and her historic 70-year reign. Elizabeth, who died in September 2022 at 96, was the longest-reigning monarch Britain has ever known, and her clothing archive is considered one of the most important collections of 20th-century British fashion. She would have celebrated her 100th birthday on April 21, 2026. Highlights include a tulle bridesmaid dress worn by an 8-year-old Princess Elizabeth in 1934 and many beautifully tailored couture dresses by the monarch's most influential designer, Norman Hartnell. Hartnell was the man behind an apple-green gown the queen wore for a state banquet given for US President Dwight D Eisenhower in Washington in 1957; a pastel blue gown with matching jacket that Elizabeth wore for her sister Princess Margaret's 1960 wedding; as well as the queen's own wedding and coronation dresses. Visitors to the exhibition will also see items from Elizabeth's private, off-duty wardrobe, from her riding clothes and Harris tweed jackets to raincoats and headscarves, as well as design sketches and fabric samples that give an insight into the process of dressing her. While the queen was known for her elegant and conservative style, the collection includes a somewhat surprising and avant-garde item: A clear transparent raincoat by the couturier Hardy Amies, made in the 1960s. The raincoat was designed to allow Elizabeth's bright daywear to be visible to crowds no matter the weather. The display will also include pieces by three contemporary British designers -- Erdem Moralioglu, Richard Quinn and Christopher Kane -- influenced by the monarch's style to highlight her legacy. "Queen Elizabeth II's wardrobe is one of the most significant living archives in modern fashion history. From the decline of the court dressmaker to the rise of couturiers like Hartnell and Hardy Amies, her garments tell the story of Britain and its changing identity through fashion," Kane said. "For designers and students, it offers a master-class in silhouette, construction, repetition, symbolism and, perhaps most importantly, restraint," the designer added. 'Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life In Style' will be staged at Buckingham Palace from April 10, 2026, to October 18, 2026. Tickets go on sale Tuesday. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

04 November,2025 12:44 PM IST | London | AP
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Rolling Loud India: 3 iconic fashion moments from the global music festival

Earlier, the fashion cycle saw it usually first appear on runway shows, six months later it trickled down to stores, then eventually to the streets. And then, hip-hop flipped that equation entirely. When Playboi Carti wore a Givenchy vampire vest at Rolling Loud 2021, goth streetwear searches spiked overnight. A$AP Rocky's vintage Raf Simons at the music festival's Miami edition crashed resale sites. Hip-hop festivals are now more influential than fashion weeks and with more music festivals making their debut in India, it is going to be interesting to see how it turns out. Here's how the music festival has aided the streetwear fashion movement globally: When the stage doubles as a runwayA$AP Rocky steps out in rare archive pieces and designer leather, within hours, fashion forums are identifying every item. Playboi Carti's punk-goth aesthetic spawned an entire subgenre of streetwear. Lil Uzi Vert's gender-fluid fits challenged what rap fashion could look like. These aren't stylist-approved looks designed for mass appeal, they're personal statements amplified to millions. The stage becomes a megaphone for individual style, and fans worldwide take notes. The celebrities show up and show offLike every other music festival, it has isn’t just for performers but also a magnet for celebrities who turn up and turn it out. From Kim Kadarshian making an appearance at Rolling Loud California 2024 to Jamie Foxx and Owen Wilson being spotted at the 2025 edition, celebrity-spotting at the festival is always fun. The attendees treat it like their own runway, showing off looks that range from high fashion to effortlessly street. At this point, it’s not just the performing acts setting trends - it’s the audience too. Where streetwear meets cultureWhile artists debut unreleased collaborations on stage, creating instant hype, the camera operators know to get closeup shots of footwear because that's what fans are analysing frame-by-frame. Brands now treat festival stages as product launch platforms, the ROI on one performance beats traditional advertising campaigns. India's sneaker community has been building for years. Your fit is your festival currencyThe unofficial competition at music festivals is all about who carried the best fit. The music festival has seen fans dress like they’re onstage too: sneakers, oversized jerseys, custom drip. Social media is all about the best fit, and giving streetwear kids a global spotlight. With India’s own sneakerheads and desi-hip hop community thriving, this will only get bigger here. A megaphone for local cultureWith the advent of many music festivals in the country, this isn’t just about international acts, it's a chance for Indian streetwear, stylists, and creators to plug into a global conversation. Expect everything from Indian jewellery paired with baggy trousers to oversized tees repping local crews. India's streetwear scene has been building its own language for years and hip-hop fashion has been evolving in its own direction, mixing global influences with local sensibilities, and with the music festival season underway, you will get to see the best of fashion.

25 October,2025 01:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Gucci owner Kering to sell beauty unit to Loreal

Gucci-owner Kering has agreed to sell its beauty business to L’Oreal for 4 billion euros ($4.7 billion). The decision comes as part of the luxury group’s efforts to reduce debt and refocus on its fashion business. The partnership includes the rights to enter into a 50-year exclusive license for the creation, development, and distribution of fragrance and beauty products for Gucci. Under this deal, L’Oreal will acquire Kering’s fragrance line Creed. L’Oreal will also have the rights to develop fragrance and beauty products under Kering’s luxury fashion label Bottega Veneta, Gucci and Balenciaga.  De Meo, the current CEO who took over in September further shared he plans to take some difficult decisions to cut Kering's debt. The company has struggled in recent years to reverse declining growth at its largest brand Gucci, which was hit hard by slowing demand in the key Chinese market. L’Oreal will pay royalties to Kering for the use of its licensed brands. L’Oréal, which noted it is considering several acquisitions this year, was reportedly approached by representatives of the Armani Group. The beauty conglomerate was named in the late Giorgio Armani’s will as one of the preferred buyers for a minority stake in his fashion label. The license for Gucci fragrance is currently held by Coty. The new deal will commence after its expiration, believed to be in 2028. Kering set up its beauty business in 2023. The deal for Kering beauty will be L'Oreal's largest to date, bigger than its purchase of Australian brand Aesop for $2.5 billion in 2023.

21 October,2025 11:08 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: Offical Instagram account of Galeries Lafayette India

Galeries Lafayette makes India debut with Mumbai flagship

French luxury department store Galeries Lafayette is all set to open its first flagship store in India, in Mumbai. The store will open in early November with plans for another one in the capital Delhi. The luxury brand has a 20-year licensing agreement with Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited (ABFRL), part of the Aditya Birla Group. The store located in the Fort neighbourhood of Mumbai, stretches across five levels and spans 90,000 sq ft and is set to host more than 250 luxury and designer brands across fashion, beauty and accessories. The store will also offer a private lounge and concierge services among other things. According to the French retailer, the Indian luxury market lacks retail avenue for higher spending consumers who shop for a spate of labels across pricey fashion houses and shopping stores abroad. India’s luxury market is valued at $85bn by 2030. Demand for luxury goods in India is being driven by increasing wealth creation and a shift in consumer tastes for premium products. Galeries Lafayette, founded 130 years ago, operates 65 stores in France and abroad, offering products across fashion, accessories, home and food categories. Galeries Lafayette’s flagship store in Paris’ Boulevard Haussmann is the second most-visited tourist spot in the French capital after the Eiffel Tower.

17 October,2025 06:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Janhvi Kapoor (left) and Hina Khan (right). Photos Courtesy: Instagram/@janhvikapoor and Instagram/@realhinakhan

Diwali 2025: Embrace effortless elegance with the timeless tissue saree

As Diwali approaches, we have already started planning out our outfits for each day. One of the must-have pieces for this time of year is the elegant tissue saree. Known for its lightness and grace, a tissue saree is a perfect blend of traditional style and contemporary fashion.  Tissue sarees are made from fine, sheer fabric woven with threads of silk and gold or silver. This delicate material offers a stunning sheen, making it a natural choice for festive occasions. The lightweight nature of tissue sarees makes them incredibly easy to wear, allowing you to drape the saree in just a few minutes. Additionally, tissue sarees are also easily portable. It can be comfortably folded and packed for travel. Whether you are heading to a family function, a party, or a destination celebration, it's easier to carry these in your bag. They also require minimal space and can be stored neatly in your wardrobe without taking up much room. Tissue sarees are minimalist and yet elegant. Many celebrities have opted for it during special occasions and premieres. Actress Hina Khan even wore it to her wedding as a ‘minimalist’ bride. So with little effort, you can also achieve a sophisticated look that will turn heads at any Diwali gathering. Tissue sarees are also versatile. You can choose from different styles, embellishments, and colours. Whether you prefer a bold statement or a subtle look, there is a tissue saree for everyone. Pair it with minimalistic jewellery and elegant footwear to complete your festive outfit effortlessly. As you prepare for Diwali, consider adding this exquisite piece of clothing to your collection—they are sure to make your celebrations even more special.

15 October,2025 05:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Orange is the new black this fall and winter season

The boldest hue of this season is everywhere — from runaway to the latest IPhone series to the new Taylor Swift album. Orange is here to make a statement bold and loud. Orange has always been a bold choice in fashion, but its rise to prominence on the runway this past season has been nothing short of spectacular. Unlike the earlier few years, designers are now embracing the vibrancy of this colour, showcasing it in their collections that exude warmth, energy, and optimism. Unlike more muted tones, orange stands out as a statement, making it perfect for those who want to express creativity and confidence through their wardrobe. Fashion houses around the world are experimenting with shades of orange, from bright tangerine to subtle apricot. It's not just a seasonal choice; orange is being framed as a timeless color that can fit any occasion, whether it's a casual get-together or a formal event. Pair a striking orange dress with simple black accessories, and you've created a look that is both trendy and sophisticated. Moving beyond fashion, orange has also captured the tech world’s attention. Apple, for instance, has introduced vibrant orange hues in its latest gadget release, catering to users seeking a pop of colour in their electronics. The appeal of orange in technology lies in its ability to stand out. In a world where tech devices often come in classic colors like black, white, and silver, an orange gadget creates an eye-catching accessory. It’s about more than aesthetics; it signifies a break from the norm, representing a younger, more dynamic consumer base that values individuality in every aspect of life. To add to this, thanks to Taylor Swift’s new album ‘The Life of a Showgirl,’ orange has become a powerful cultural movement overnight. The synergy between Swift’s artistic vision and the growing trend of orange could potentially set the tone for future music and fashion trends alike. In India, the vibrant orange-red of saffron (as also seen in the national flag) symbolizes courage and sacrifice. Across the globe too, orange has a more significant and rather sacred meaning. In China, both the fruit and colour are considered a symbol of fortune, warmth and vitality. Marigold flowers and the colour orange is also deeply symbolic and traditional in Mexico. As we move through this fall season, keep an eye out for how orange further evolves in fashion and culture. Whether you embrace it in your wardrobe, your gadgets, or your playlist, one thing is clear: orange is here to stay, and it invites everyone to join in on the celebration of self-expression and creativity.

15 October,2025 01:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Diwali 2025: Step into comfort and embrace embroidered footwear

Diwali is just around the corner! Like most Indian festivals, it's a time filled with joy, celebration, and of course, lots of socializing. You’ll be meeting relatives, friends, and maybe even doing a bit of dancing. While all of this sounds lovely, there's often a downside: those heavy outfits and those painfully high heels can turn a festive day into a long struggle.  As beautiful as those 4-inch heels may be, they can become uncomfortable after just a few hours. This year, why not give your feet a break? Opt for footwear that’s not only stylish but also comfy enough to keep you moving without the pain. Let your feet steal the spotlight this Diwali with some stunning embroidered shoes! These shoes are all about comfort and style and are surprisingly low maintenance too.  Embroidered footwear is like wearing a piece of art on your feet. The art of embroidery involves using a needle and colorful thread to stitch beautiful patterns like flowers and leaves onto fabric. This process is usually done by hand, with artisans focusing on every tiny detail to ensure perfection. Over the years, embroidery has become fashionable again, not just in clothing but also in shoes. This trend brings an ethnic vibe to our footwear choices. Plus, embroidered shoes and juttis are easier to care for compared to other designer footwear. Many of them can be hand-washed, making them easy to clean without harming the delicate embroidery. So as you prepare for the Diwali festivities, remember that your footwear doesn’t have to be a source of pain. Embrace embroidered shoes that celebrate tradition while keeping your feet content. After all, the festival is about enjoying time with loved ones, dancing, and reveling in the joy of the occasion.

14 October,2025 12:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The new wave of emerging designers was identified by their fashion narrative, which had each designer’s individual sensibilities.

Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI: Three creative designers unveil stunning collections

The 40th edition of the “NIF Global Presents GenNext” show at Lakme Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, unveiled three creative designers’ collections that were impressive visions of style and substance. The new wave of emerging designers was identified by their fashion narrative, which had each designer’s individual sensibilities. Lakmē, FDCI, Reliance and NIF Global have been instrumental in introducing designers who have begun with their debuts at “NIF Global Presents GenNext” and made a mark in the fashion arena. The “NIF Global Presents GenNext” has been presenting exceptional talent to the Indian fashion industry over the 39 very successful seasons. Top names like Rahul Mishra, Masaba Gupta, Kunal Rawal, have rocked on the international fashion ramps and brought accolades to Indian fashion. Mohammed Anas Sheikh - 23 degrees N 69 degrees EIndore based designer, Mohammed Anas Sheikh’s quirkily titled label 23°N 69°E, brought the beauty and visuals of the Ajrakh craft along with hand painting and natural dyes for the collection. To showcase more eye-catching appeal, mirror work created an unconventional story, while the coordinates of Kachch added to the design sensibilities of the look.  The Fall/Winter 2025 line paid quiet homage to the land of Kala Cotton, which was the base of the creations. Allowing the prints and textures to do all the talking, Mohammed retained minimal silhouettes. The intentional use of worn out broken Ajrakh blocks was a conscious effort to give the passage of time importance. The beauty of the collection lay in the personal hand painting and the block printing executed personally by the designer that presented a valuable offering. The 23°N 69°E brand by Mohammed Anas Sheikh ensured that an unconventional fashion offering would be presented for the coming season. “The indigenous cotton of Gujarat and the beautiful craft of Ajrakh has been honoured in my collection,” revealed Mohammed Anas Sheikh. Anam Husain - Cut-PutlyAnam Husain’s eponymous brand was all about creativity of the extreme kind. Her collection “Cut-Putly” was metamorphosed from Rajasthan’s Kathpuli dolls, when the designer worked her magic to bring the folk lore of the dolls into a more contemporary story on to the apparel.  The material that enhanced the collection revolved around sculpted denim, which was repurposed from nearly 1,000 kgs of post-consumer waste. The lining of the garments also stayed true to the sustainable path, with discarded hotel furnishing, which was combined with boning, hardware, patchwork and experimental draping.  The silhouettes were a creative merger of geometric forms that mirrored the puppet string concept, while the feminine silhouettes were layered with grainy textures for added emphasis. The “Cut-Putly” collection by Anam Husain was a truly fashion forward offering that will appeal to buyers who favour innovative, new wave fashion. “The Kathpuli dolls of Rajasthan have always fascinated me and I have used their inspiration in a contemporary form for my creations,” explained Anam Husain. Pranita Choudhury - RecallingPranita Choudhury’s Gaach brand was an inspired journey of nostalgia from the poetic version of Rabindranath Tagore’s poem. The collection called “Recalling” was a fashionable medley to Tagore’s “Purono Sei Diner Kotha”, which translates to ‘Memories of the Old Days’. The story of the days gone by, celebrated the bitter, sweet past memories with the block prints of Gaach in Bengali script as well as Kantha stitch and crewel embroidery.  The natural fabrics like Eri Silk, Chanderi, Pashmina silk, Linen silk and corduroy formed the base of the ensembles. Flowing long skirts, basic shirts and comfy gilets were printed in vibrant hues. The relaxed, easy silhouettes brought a cool feminine offering for the coming season. “My brand has always been true to the culture of Bengal which I have interpreted in my collection for the GenNext show,” revealed Pranita Choudhury. Commenting on the fresh wave of talent through the NIF Global Presents GenNext program, Sunanda Khaitan, Vice President at Lakmē, shared, “The NIF Global Presents GenNext initiative remains a cornerstone of the Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI journey. Each season, we are excited to witness a new cohort of dynamic young designers bringing their vision to the runway. The program continues to play a transformative role, offering India’s emerging fashion talent a powerful launchpad, nurturing innovation, and fostering creativity across the country. At Lakmē, we remain deeply committed to championing fresh perspectives and shaping a diverse, future-ready fashion landscape both nationally and globally.” Shaunik Khosla, business head, NIF Global, added, “At NIF Global, we have always been committed to nurturing young talent, and our collaboration with Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI through the GenNext platform allows us to do just that. Season after season, we take pride in providing aspiring designers with the opportunity to showcase their creativity on this prestigious stage, empowering them to debut and make their mark in the fashion industry. ‘NIF Global presents GenNext’ is known for featuring a fresh wave of creativity in Indian fashion and presenting a display of innovation and artistry. NIF Global continues to support the emerging talent of designers, providing a platform for their expression.” Speaking on the programme, Jaspreet Chandok, Group Vice President, Reliance Brands said, “The NIF Global presents GenNext program has long been central to the platform's commitment to championing emerging talent and the premier designer discovery program in India. This year’s winners bring bold perspectives and a distinct design language—further reinforcing our belief in the power of nurturing young voices to push boundaries and reimagine what’s next.”

09 October,2025 04:29 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
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