Here is my take on the 25-year celebration of the promising fashion extravaganza of India, nothing other than Lakmé Fashion Week.
Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 has once again set the stage for India's fashion evolution, and this year, sarees have remarkably reclaimed their spotlight on the runway. Designers seamlessly blended traditional drapery with contemporary aesthetics, offering a fresh perspective on this timeless attire.
Anamika Khanna opened the event with a collection that redefined power dressing for the modern woman. Her sarees featured fluid silhouettes adorned with intricate silver embellishments, effortlessly transitioning from day to night. The collection emphasized versatility, catering to the dynamic lifestyle of today's women.
The gala night witnessed Kareena Kapoor Khan mesmerizing the audience in an ivory tulle saree designed by Manish Malhotra. Embellished with pearls and paired with a delicate cape, the ensemble exuded elegance and sophistication, setting a benchmark for contemporary saree designs.
Satya Paul introduced a monochrome-themed collection titled 'Alchemy,' celebrating the evolution of the saree. Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor turned showstopper, gracing the runway in a striking black and white belted saree. Her appearance paid homage to old Bollywood charm while embracing modern design elements.
Shilpa Shetty brought a futuristic twist to traditional sarees, donning a structured blouse paired with a bold monochrome drape. Her ensemble showcased the innovative direction designers are exploring, merging classic styles with avant-garde elements.
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Designers like Amruta Vankar paid homage to traditional art forms, presenting sarees that featured intricate weaves and patterns reinterpreted for the contemporary audience. This fusion of heritage and modernity resonated with attendees, highlighting the saree's versatility and enduring appeal.
Khadi India captivated audiences with its contemporary reinterpretation of traditional sarees. The collection drew inspiration from India's rich folk art, showcasing designs influenced by Gond, Madhubani, and Picchwai paintings. Crafted from hand-spun and handwoven khadi fabrics—including wool from Bikaner, cotton from Kanpur, muslin from Murshidabad, and Eri silk from Assam—the sarees exemplified India's diverse textile heritage. Enhanced with hand embroidery, natural dyeing, and hand block printing, each piece seamlessly blended age-old artistry with modern aesthetics, reaffirming Khadi's status as a symbol of sustainable luxury.
'Mahboob' by Nikasha at Lakme Fashion Week is a heartfelt expression of India’s most treasured fabric-Khadi, by honoring the legacy of artisanal fashion through timeless elegance.
Lakmé Fashion Week 2025 has reaffirmed the saree's prominence in the fashion world, illustrating its adaptability and timelessness. By integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities, designers have ensured that the saree remains a cherished and fashionable choice for generations to come.
Sumana Bhattacharya completed her Masters in Economics from the University of Calcutta & was working with the Department of Education, Govt. of West Bengal to provide training to the teachers in Government Schools. She moved to USA in 2005 after getting married & is the mother of 2 kids. She is the one that drives IndyVogue every day, every hour, every minute and every second. Salute to her and her undying spirit.
