Archana Kochhar uses vibrant colour palettes at LFW

To the foot tapping strains of the especially composed song ‘Mumbai Se’ sung by Sameer and accompanied by the live band Samander; Archana Kochhar’s collection called “Mumbai Checkmate” was released on the ramp.

Tiny iconic latkans beautifully embroidered were created by the children of the NGO ‘Project Crayons’ and embellished on various parts of the garments Mixing bold black and white checks with solids, Archana had a vibrant colour palette with neon yellow, electric orange and candy pink highlighting the ensembles.

From form fitting jumpsuits to voluminous kaftans, gowns, flowing dhoti style pants and floor length Anarkalis, the collection moved to lehengas and sheer patio pants worn with clinging body suits. The saris were dramatically pre-stitched with discreet glitter which appeared at strategic points.

Embellishments were varied as neon cut outs, appliqués and cutwork along with crystal dust provided the sparkle on the creation. The colourful wool work added to the beauty of the garments.

Fabrics matched the theme with organic hand woven silk and cotton moving to centre stage. Drapes, rouching, pleating and pin tucks gave the designs a pleasing touch while looped hemlines added an innovative silhouette.

Wide white pants had the Mumbai skyline painted at the hem and the sheer black kalidar covers over a sexy swimsuit were stunners.

The highlights of the show were the sun yellow georgette resort creations with splashes of checks, the sultry saris with iconic motifs, the lush lehengas with eye-catching bright hemlines, the slinky leotards under sheer voluminous skirts and the cute minis under asymmetric covers.

For men’s wear, Archana created easy silhouettes in linen with black and white checked prints being the focal point. The stylish one button jackets worn with slim trousers could be ideal for fun in the sun.

The show stoppers were the petit Shazahn Padamsee in a voluminous Lehenga, choli and elaborate dupatta and the very stylish hot stepper Prabhu Deva wearing a shaded brown/grey jacket grooved down the ramp to the beat of the band.

The 30 women’s creations and 6 men’s wear entries by Archana Kochhar gave lovers of Mumbai, fashionable options from the “Mumbai Checkmate” collection to add to their wardrobes.

Archana Kochhar