Anita Dongre to present rice weaves of Varanasi at LFW

Anita Dongre a textile revivalist and fashion designer turning her focus toward the rice weaves of Varanasi inspired by the finely handwoven cotton in Varanasi, for the coming fashion week in Mumbai.

Her collection this time revolves around ‘Varanasi Weaves’, a tribute to the rich Indian textiles and glorious weaves of India. Contemporary fashion draped in Indian textiles, modern silhouettes with a dash of traditionalism has been this designer’s signature. Dongre has used blocks of different motifs including stripes, lattice work, triangles and floral jaal in her collection.

The silhouettes are modern and contemporary appealing to the style sensibilities of an urban young woman, at the same time preserving and allowing the wearer to take home a bit of the country’s culture with them. The silhouettes move from straight cuts to flares in an eclectic range of pencil skirts and column gowns giving way to voluminous full-length skirts, crop tops with flared pants and skirts – all resonating with the simplicity and keeping the beauty of the traditional textile in the handwoven fabrics from Varanasi unmarred.

The colour palette spins vintage magic with old rose, buttercup yellows and powder blues, to more muted and neutral tones of nude, dull gold and the summer classic white, for a versatile and feminine look.

‘Varanasi Weaves’, her upcoming summer resort show for Lakme Fashion Week SR 2014 is a celebration of the rich weaves of India. The show will be held on the Indian Textile Day of LFW on March 14.

Anita said that there will be a showstopper for her collection as she is someone who beautifully reflects the spirit of brand Anita Dongre, without divulging any details.