In early August, Anushka Sharma stepped out in a burnt orange floor-length zari jacket, worn over matching trousers and a golden blouse, as she posed for pictures alongside Shahrukh Khan and Imtiaz Ali ahead of the release of Jab Harry Met Sejal. Not many days before this appearance, Anushka was spotted in a forest green and gold number, from the same collection — Urvashi Kaur’s Winter Festive line, Dhara. The effect in both instances was dreamy but with a generous dash of fierceness.
A quick chat with designer Urvashi is enough to come to the conclusion that she is both these qualities rolled into one, and has translated them into her garments with effortless grace. “All of us are travelers, seeking some kind of truth. Dhara has been like a journey for me. It is an expression of all the experiences I’ve witnessed through my journey of life,” says Urvashi, when asked about the inspiration for the collection, which will be showcased at Collage Shop India until the end of the month.
The collection, which is a mix of long tunics, saris, peplum blouses, crop tops, pleated palazzos, dhoti pants and sheer shirts, sees the use of textural details, handblock prints, kantha work, ruching, pleating and the leheriya technique, all of which are central to Urvashi’s signature aesthetic — attention to the finer details. “In our lives, we have lots of different personalities that add colour and character to our existence. It’s the same with my clothes. The closer you get, the more is revealed,” she enthuses. While Dhara is heavy on Indian craft techniques, the garments too are a nod to the country’s textile heritage with extensive use of Kota and Chanderi. “The sheerness of Kota lays emphasis on looking within,” she explains. The silhouettes are structured but have a fluid quality and the colours used are earthy without being staid.
The palette veers from ochres, forest green and indigo to deep rust and burnt orange. “Most of the pieces in the line are versatile. Right from the oversized jacket to the sheer Chanderi shirt with block prints. A multi-hued leheriya tent dress and a chocolate brown skirt, with about 30 panels, are two key pieces from the line,” reveals Urvashi, who will next be seen at the Rajasthan Heritage Week in December.
Rs. 6,500 upwards. At Wood Street. Details: 25566818