Bold colours and modern interpretations of ethnic silhouettes define Parnika’s debut collection 

As far as designer Parnika Jain remembers, she has always maintained a journal, doodling all that she found inspirational— from her visits to the MET and The Museum at the FIT to design studios in Milan. So it comes as little surprise that the 28-year-old’s eponymous label that launched online earlier this month derives its spunk from her quintessential love for graphic design and colour. 

Offering a refreshing take on abstract art through the use of layering, panels and embroidered patches, Parnika’s debut collection is not just an amalgamation of digital prints and colour blocks. “I have always been fascinated by the graphic art medium and have taken visual cues from it to create patterns and colour combinations that lend a dramatic edge to my silhouettes,” explains the fashion design graduate from the Parson’s School of Design. 

Experimenting with the utility and functionality of ethnic silhouettes, Parnika’s debut line throws a spin on the sari, replacing the traditional contours of the garments with crop tops, oversized jackets and a draped sari pallu. “The silhouettes are built on the idea of providing a modern sense of style that is fuss-free and more approachable than the traditional drape.” 

Created as a range of separates including pantsuits, skirts, hoodie dresses, joggers, the collection occupies a niche between formal fits and athleisure, affording the perfect transitional wardrobe for day to night wear.

A colour palette ranging from ivory, powder blue and mint to amber and black, the line makes use of fabrics like suede, corduroy, denim and metallic weaves and includes sequined fabrics, glass embellishments along with metallic fringes. 

Available online. Rs 8,000.