Weaving India into global fashion

Alka

Chopra’s fashion show highlighted the universality of traditional Indian attire

BY PREETI JABBAL

Local Indian designer Alka Chopra’s debut fashion show, held recently at The Manningham Hotel, would have you believe that sparkles belong where they can be seen.

A joyful mix of vibrant colours and embellished fabrics took centre stage with the emphasis clearly on timelessness rather than the ephemeral.

The energy that fuels Alka’s collection was on display as women of all ages and sizes sashayed in various attire.

Focussing attention on the fall of ornate lehengas and the sensuousness of vibrant kaftans, the audience immersed themselves in the grandeur of Indian fashion.

The collection incorporated Indian traditional wear with a contemporary edge; it was a wearable and accessible collection that would make heads turn on the streets, for all the right reasons.

Alka prides herself on being one of the first few to bring Indian fashion to Melbourne on a commercial basis. She currently operates from a boutique on trendy Burke Street and her label offers ready to wear and semi-stitched collections handpicked and sourced from India by Alka.

“I have been in this business from the early 90’s and have been meaning to have a proper show like this for a very long time. I am glad my dream has finally reached fruition,” Alka told Indian Link

“I believe that my collection provides access to a special kind of femininity and I wanted to share my passion for fashion with everyone” she added.

The show was put together, within four weeks, in collaboration with stylist Zareen Zeenath.

Lawyer by profession and model by hobby Jennifer Zaman was the emcee for the afternoon.

Models from various multicultural backgrounds added the glam quotient and enhanced the versatility and universal appeal of Indian garments.

Serious haute couture with all its trappings it was not but there was enough style to create drama and provide theatrics at an otherwise simple show. The audience had the opportunity to mingle and shop post show and get first dibs on garments to which they had taken a shine.

Part of the proceeds were pledged to Swastha Coorg India charity and Make a Wish Foundation Australia.

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