Checking out the first looks it was clear Shruti Sancheti has cleared anything digressive and superfluous and has instituted a regime of meticulous focus. In sync with a commitment to quality she highlighted the brand's well-defined vision of supporting the weaving community. Having worked with the Maharashtra State Handlooms Corporation the designer took inspiration from elements of the state's culture—notably humble weaves—while the motifs like peacocks and nose rings and the festive colors lent this collection for Lakmé Fashion Week a graphic character. "Exploring Maharashtra's handlooom weaving gave me opportunity to research on its unique style which can be summed in a single Marathi word "saaj" i.e. elaborate way of dressing and accessorizing" the designer told us before the show.
The show began with a classical dance that set the mood and underlined the silent appeal from the weaving commuity: "Open your mind and look at the beautiful textiles within our nation." This theme translated into another exercise for the designer.. employing their skill set in the service of high fashion. The celebration of Indian culture rolled seamlessly as models showcased lehenga-cholis and luga pants.. achkans and chogas, asymmetric kalidaars and wrap lungis.. a nine-yard sari worn with a sheer kurta and saris worn with a waistcoat. What caught our attention—and held it—was a ghagra-anarkali styled innovatively so one could wear both garments together. All garments were intricately embellished with Paithani embroidery in addition to Aari and resham.. and styled with Peshwai jewellery. Closing the show was Juhi Chawla in an elegant lehenga and panelled long choli that re-instated its modern festive yet Peshwai character.
— JASMEEN DUGAL