Mona-Pali show at CIFW

The second season of the Chennai International Fashion Week (CIFW) has commenced at

the Le Royal Meridien, Chennai. And designer duo Mona and Pali presented their new collection titled ‘Earth Couture Collection’. This range is about tradition entwined with modern sensibility, old-fashioned charm mixed with contemporary eclecticism and a rich sensuality mingled with polished, urban serenity. The two say, “It’s an ode to the beauty of the feminine form, the mix of absolute antithesis -- rawness and luxury.”

The range described as resort wear meets tribal wear, is a line extension of the portfolio the sister duo displayed at the Seattle Fashion Week at the beginning of May this year. According to Mona and Pali, the styles mostly consist of kaftans, tunics, skirts, tops, bustiers and saris. Soft, sensual, elegant yet structured and in control the silhouette balances contrasts. The fine network in the collection pays homage to ancient jharokhas (screens) of Indian architecture, creating a feel of hide and seeks. Delicate embroidery, mesh work, bead work, thread work and dori work marry hand paint, discharge print and bold graphic patterns to blend into an easy silhouette in soft sensual fabrics that have been juxtaposed with rustic, matt, structured materials on a vibrant color palates like blue, purple, red, yellow, fuchsia, green, wine and orange.

The entire collection has been meticulously handcrafted and is divided into two segments – the casual and holiday line for the prêt-a-porter portfolio and the prestige line for the couture portfolio.