Narendra Kumar to launch couture line

Designer Narendra Kumar Ahmed, known for his prêt line,

is set to launch a couture line that includes high-end dresses, gowns and drapes this October in. Narendra Kumar was part of the first graduating class from National Institute of Fashion Technology while it was still being run in conjunction with FIT, New York, and Trent Polytechnic, UK.

At the just concluded 2nd Van Heusen India Mens Week, the designer presented a Samurai-inspired collection that he says celebrates his 10 years in the industry. The collection boasted of a metallic monotone mix of baggy hakamas (traditional Japanese pajamas) and slim pants, short and slim jackets with embroidery as well as drapes and traditional Japanese flares. Soaked in organic colors derived from flowers like marigold and trifala and hand dyed by slum dwellers from Mumbai, the fabrics for the line included linen, silk linen, wool and natural fabrics made from plants.

The NK line for both men and women is based on modern cuts and silhouettes but integrates the luxurious aspects of specially woven Indian fabrics and handcrafted detailing to give a couture feel. In addition, NK’s company, Arenah Design Studio, undertakes various corporate identity clothing projects for international companies such as the Marriott Group of Hotels, Taj Group of Hotels, HSBC bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Unilever etc. The company works with some of India’s leading textile manufacturers in creating fashion brands and imaging the brands for relevance to the Indian market.