Indian links at l’oréal Melb Fashion Fest

The intricate craft of Indian artisans inspires two Aussie designers

BY TAlIA KAUR

This year’s L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival has been said to be the best yet. It showcased the works of talented Australian designers, two of whom were motivated by the fabrics, textures and colours which make Indian fashion so unique. But if you didn’t manage to grab a seat at the event, don’t despair! Here are the main highlights - straight from the runway.

LInDA JACKSOn

Designer Linda Jackson added a distinct and incredibly unique approach to her designs. She ventured beyond the conventional seasonal trends in Australia and definitely pushed the limits of Western fashion this year. Using her artistic skills, Jackson added her own individual taste to each garment. Her designs are playful and bright, and the incredible use of colour and detailed patterns allow each piece to make a statement.

MEGAn PARK

Megan Park’s collection this year featured a combination of traditional craft and hand embroidery with today’s most popular shapes and fabrics. Every item - whether a garment or accessory - had been stitched, beaded and embroidered by hand in India by highly skilled artisans. The prints and dyes were also produced using old Indian handcraft techniques which have been passed down through generations. Her designs were feminine and detailed, relaxed and luxurious. Megan created a perfect balance in her collection by pairing colourful handblock patterns and accessories with simple, dark staple pieces such as jackets and stockings. The entire line was beautifully unique, current and timeless. Her inspirations come from around the world, including street markets in New Delhi and Mumbai. Each garment showed incredible attention to detail, making them outstanding works of art.

She drew inspiration from India and Africa to create an electrifying mix of cultural fabrics, textures and styles. Her work included pieces of appliqué (sewing fabric on fabric), patchwork, screenprinting, hand-painting and cutwork – all of which were also inspired by traditional Indian and African handcraft techniques and exuded a definite ‘wow’ factor.