"My show at Amazon India Fashion Week is set against the sacred forest of Mangar, in Aravali Hills. Legend has it that the spirit of mystic Baba Gudariya presides there. Hence, no villager will ever fell a tree. Today, it is home to the Dhau tree and wildlife like leopards, deer, rare birds and butterflies. Through this collection, I will showcase my perception and experience of the sacred forest as I love spending time at my home-stay in Mangar village" Anupama Dayal told me days before the showing.
The danger of a theatrical theme is that the garments could turn out to be unrealistic for everyday or occasion wear but that couldn't have been further from the truth — Anupama showcased languid dresses that brushed the catwalk, fluid skirts, tunics and cocktail dresses, some worn with scarves. The forest references were evidenced in the palette which embraced parakeet green, daffodil yellow, indigo, burgundy and raisin, in the handblock prints of oversized florals and butterflies, and in the textures i.e. crinkling and fringes to give it a nomadic feel.
Where Anupama excelled was when she melded the theme into her signature flirty, fluid ensembles that had great movement. The sexy printed dresses were designed with a crisp yet relaxed hand. PS I just love the way she styled the looks with gota accessories, tassels and jewellery made by women in Munirka village owing to the designer's women's empowerment initiative. And hours after the showing… I can't help marvelling Dayal's dexterous hand at mixing intense colors, prints and silhouettes in contemporary yet culturally rooted sensibilities. My Verdict: All-round Fabulosity.
— JASMEEN DUGAL