The Mumbai skies may have been overcast but there wasn't the faintest trace of a cloud over Nachiket Barve's stunning collection for Lakmé Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI. The designer—celebrated for spectacular red carpet looks and elaborate festive and occassionwear—was in top form this season with "Ephermera". 

The appliquéd cape worn with a bralette and pants and the blazer-style minidress were made for starlit cocktails while the evening gown with cutaway shoulders, thigh-high slit and hand-worked floral motifs and the saris with sexy, sensual blouses is sure to be spotted at star-truffled yacht parties or red carpet nights! Menswear, however, made a quiet impact.

As the collection unfolded on the catwalk, one could perceive the effort invested into handcrafting each look. The surface ornamentation had taken expert artisans hundreds of hours to create, in particular the cutwork, intricate thread embroideries, hand-cut floral appliqués and beading. Another remarkable aspect of the collection was the conscientious use of upcycled fabrics from previous seasons, repurposed to keep waste at a minimum. Huma Qureshi closed the showing in a lavishly hand embroidered lehenga and full-sleeve choli worn with a sheer, ruffled dupatta.The cheering and voracious applause was testament that this collection is a sellout too!!!

— JASMEEN DUGAL