Singh's magical 'Illusions'

The grand finale show at LFW Summer/Resort 2014 by one of India’s top couturiers, Rajesh Pratap Singh, was a scintillating fashion offering that concluded the five day gala. Bringing the curtains down on this season’s fashion extravaganza, Lakmé along with Singh created a visual treat of fashion and makeup under the latest Lakme Absolute Illusion range launched for the coming season.

Inspired by ‘Illusions’ – Lakmé’s statement for the season, the finale saw Singh’s signature styles blend with the makeup conceptualized with the new Lakmé Absolute Illusion range, comprising of eight metallic shimmer eye shadows monos and four limited edition nail colours. Kareena Kapoor Khan, the brand ambassador of Lakme sashayed down the ramp in long sleeved V-neck, low back glittering black gown.

Mirrors framed with lit diyas ran through the centre of the ramp while giant trees added to the impressive décor turning the lawns of the Hotel Grand Hyatt into a magical wonderland. To match the glamour of the Lakmé Absolute Illusion range, Rajesh Pratap Singh’s collection titled ‘Illusion’ had ensembles in sheer fabrics that moved gracefully from relaxed shapes in pastels to stronger solids. Pastels and metallic yarns gradually culminated in black and midnight shades with shimmering silver highlights.

The fabric base had woven experiments in silver, stainless steel, paper, aluminium, hand woven and spun khadi, silk and linen. The design story also saw trademark white shirts by Rajesh Pratap Singh as well as churi sleeves, bundi vest, structured jackets and the veil in more contemporary forms. The pastel palette emerged with skirts, coats, jackets, glittering dresses, blousons; pinafores, coat dresses as well as shimmering shifts.

The black section had mirror work on waistcoats, capris, jackets, tunics, tiny boleros, high waist trousers, belted shirt waisters, and gowns with placement mirrors and horizontal metal stripes. Men’s wear was stylish with jackets, Bermudas, kurtas, blousons with interesting colour blocking and detailing.