IN DESIGNER SHRIYA Bhupal’s new release for Spring Summer Resort 2019, raffia serves as both inspiration and raw material. Now, that is something that is hard to come by. “Raffia is a palm fibre that traditionally goes into the making of bags, baskets and sometimes, accessories. I wanted to do something different and experimented with it by using it on my clothes,” explains Shriya, who has dressed everyone from Katrina Kaif to Radhika Apte.
Sea faring
The Hyderabad-based designer who worked with the likes of Tarun Tahiliani and Naeem Khan before setting up her own label in 2014, reveals that the sea and all things related to it, such as coral and palms, form the rest of the inspiration. Known for her dramatic yet feminine garments, Shriya continues to stick to her signature aesthetic in this collection too, but one could argue that the clothes this time around, are a lot more demure, with soft pastels, matching embroidery and 3D detailing. “I’ve also used pleats for the first time,” she tells us and cites the example of a pleated jumpsuit. Crafted from silk and silk tulle, this powder blue number features a sheer body with a pleated bottom, designed to look like a dress. “The top is fully embroidered and bears vertically placed raffia on the neckline,” she tells us, adding that the challenge with the fibre was that it had to be sewn onto the garment by hand, as it is delicate by nature.
Blue lagoon
The rest of the collection also employs organza and georgette, and light hues that add depth. Another key look is a corseted draped gown in blue. “This dress captures the idea of the collection accurately, and showcases the finesse we have come to be known for as a brand,” she shares. Sophisticated with a distinct ethereal vibe, the clothes are geared towards the young Indian woman who wants to look classy but is also open to experimentation. Shriya, who finds inspiration in street fashion and fuses that with her luxe designs, has chosen to go darker with burnt colours for Autumn/Winter.
Rs.20,000 upwards. Available online