Tarun Tahiliani's Ethereal 2018 Couture Collection Is Going To Leave You Spellbound

Couture Week 2018-19 got an exquisitely ethereal start with Tarun Tahiliani’s couture show ‘In Elysium- An Ethereal Lightness of Being’ last night. With shimmering florals and weightless drapes, the designer once again proved that he is the undisputed maestro of Indian fashion. The show evoked images of paradise and angelic gardens, where gods and goddesses wandered in sherwanis and churidars, dresses, anarkalis, and pre-draped saris with heavy embroidery replaced by Swarovski crystals.

The garments juxtaposed iconic European construction with classic Indian styles and embroideries, all the while radiating of Tahiliani’s regal aesthetic. The show opened with shades of beige and black, and gradually moved to pale pinks and reds.

The intricate craftsmanship was a breath of fresh air as it moved away from the heavy embroideries and intricacies of Indian atelier. The resplendent layers of Swarovski-encrusted embellishment on the innate buoyancy of crinoline accentuated the silhouette. Tassel, lace, tulle, fringes, French lamè and sheer silk combined beautifully with Indian embroideries of zardozi, ari, gota-patti and chikankari.

We saw three-dimensional florals in the form of ribbon-twisted organza, chiffon couching, twisted sheer silk, laser-cut textiles, and detailed applique - each panel of bridal and cocktail lehengas, concept saris, gowns, jackets, and modern saris layered in multi-dimensional detailing.

The menswear line shares a similar magical lightness, a sartorial finesse which is Tarun Tahiliani’s signature. Sherwanis, bandhgalas and bandhis, long-line kurtas, pre-fitted cummerbunds all had seamless construction in muted monotones of ivory, mauve, powder blue, tea-rose, ebony and burgundy. Contrast detailing in deep peach, ochre, orange and paisley added the vibrant bursts to collection.

The show ended with Aditi Rao Hydari walking the ramp in a breathtaking off-shoulder lehenga in soft pink, embellished with crystals, pearls, and a touch of feathers. The highlight of the garment was dramatic the ombré veil; an example of impeccable finesse and extravagance.

All images courtesy: Tarun Tahiliani

Assisted by Gariyashi Bhuyan