India Couture Week 2023 SAME BUT DIFFERENT

The 16th edition of the event didn't offer many surprises. But it did show the industry's growing desire to address changing needs

- Pooja Singh

RAHUL MISHRA An embroidered tiger became one half of a blouse, an embellished kaftan turned into a gown-We, The People was essentially a tapestry of the people who are the real stars of fashion: the artisans.

Once upon a time, fashion was supposed to set you dreaming, the clothing on the runway being too fantastical for everyday life. Sometimes you would be left wondering at ideas as absurd as a cotton ball being a cap. Today, however, functionality has become the flavour of the season, even for couture.

This shift was on display as II couturiers presented their collections at venues across the Capital, all part of the 10-day India Couture Week 2023, which concluded on 2 August. Most designers highlighted their signature styles, resulting in familiar, shiny silhouettes. If you looked closely, though, there was innovation. For instance, more bridal clothes than ever had much needed pockets. Garments, in general, were lighter, though they didn't look it.