After New York, London, Milan and Paris, the fashion parade finally came to India with the Lakmé Fashion Week 2023 in partnership with FDCI (Fashion Design Council of India). The five-day fiesta took place at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi last month.
The event was packed with a plethora of talented designers and brands, making it the ultimate destination for emerging talent, sustainability and fashion businesses in the country. From veterans like Bibhu Mohapatra and Tarun Tahiliani to newcomers and even GenNext designers, the shows presented a stunning array of collections. It's been a season of opulent 3D appliques, look-at-me sheercore, corset techniques and itsy-bitsy micro shorts. While some of these elements will have their two minutes of fame, some will stick around, at least till next season if not longer. Here are 10 trends we spotted at LFW that we expect to see more of in 2024...
3D applique Opulent 3D appliques took over the fashion scene at the Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI, displaying intricate and meticulous craftsmanship. Designers cleverly incorporated three-dimensional embellishments onto their garments, creating an impressive visual impact. The level of detail and finesse displayed by designers, making each piece a work of art, was the standout feature of this trend.
Designers like Bibhu Mohapatra and Falguni Shane Peacock were the prominent ones who embraced this trend. Falguni Shane Peacock's collection was an evening-heavy extravaganza, with transparency harmoniously blended with texture and unapologetic logo mania. The 3D appliques added a sense of depth and dimension to their designs, making them stand out. The collection featured bombers, trouser suits and dresses adorned with the iconic FSP motif, showcasing the perfect amalgamation of opulence and artistic detailing.
New York-based Indian designer Bibhu Mohapatra made a remarkable homecoming with his collection, where dots, bloom appliques, and geometric beading were elegantly incorporated onto floor-length dresses and blazers worn with micro shorts. The collection epitomised red-carpet glam, with 3D appliques elevating the overall allure of each piece. The meticulous placement and design of these appliques made Mohapatra's collection a true standout in the trend of opulent 3D appliques.
Sheercore The sheercore trend brought sensuousness to the runway, fusing sheer fabrics with bold cuts and designs. Designers experimented with this trend to create visually stunning garments that displayed a play of transparency and intricate designs. The standout feature was the balance achieved between delicacy and boldness, offering a new perspective on modern fashion.
Designers like SVA by Sonam and Paras Modi were spotted embracing this trend. Their collection beautifully showcased the delicate play of sheer fabrics, incorporating them into gowns and tops. The strategic placement of sheer elements added a glamorous touch to the garments. The collection represented the perfect fusion of elegance and modernity, captivating the audience with its ethereal charm. The clever play of sheer fabrics in the collection added an intriguing visual element, making it stand out among the myriad of trends showcased at the event.
Power dressing Power dressing was a major trend spotted in many labels. Structured silhouettes with bold shoulders, emphasising the female form, was highlighted. This trend was incorporated in sari blouses as well. Designers showcased pieces with pronounced shoulders that defined and accentuated the upper body, creating a powerful and empowering look. This trend was a perfect blend of vintage elegance and contemporary style, redefining traditional garments.
Raw Mango was at the forefront of this trend, presenting pieces that focused on shoulders. The outfits' structured bodices defined the backs and exuded a daring, self-assured style. Dresses, shirts and pantsuits with power dressing details made an empowering statement in every piece. This style eschewed free-flowing, flowing designs in favour of structure and a strong sense of authority.
Micro shorts The itsy-bitsy micro shorts trend showcased boldness and playfulness, with confidence and a carefree spirit. Designers embraced the 'less is more' philosophy, presenting tiny shorts that made a big fashion statement. These shorts were versatile and added a youthful and vibrant touch to the runway, challenging traditional norms of fashion.
Shweta Kapur of 431-88 embraced this trend, showcasing confidence and attitude through her designs. Paired with blazers or statement tops, these shorts emphasised the legs and brought a fun and playful element to the ensembles. Designers showcased creativity and innovation by incorporating these tiny shorts into their collections, making a bold and exciting statement.
Metallic marvel The metallic marvel trend was a futuristic celebration of textures and colours, embracing the dynamic interplay of metallic fabrics and accents. Designers utilised metallic elements to create visually striking garments that exuded energy and sophistication. The standout feature of this trend was the use of metallics in various forms, ranging from clothing to accessories, giving a modern and edgy vibe.
Designers like Geisha Designs embraced this trend with their collection Profusion, which celebrated the dynamic interplay of textures and colours. The runway shone with metallic fabrics and icy-cool colours, showcasing the perfect blend of modernity and elegance. From icy blues to resplendent metallics, this collection highlighted the versatility and appeal of metallic elements.
Art-wear The fusion of art and fashion was a celebration of heritage and tradition merged seamlessly with modern designs. Designers drew inspiration from art, culture, and traditional motifs, infusing them into contemporary fashion. This trend showcased a harmonious blend of the art and fashion worlds, bringing a fresh and unique perspective to fashion.
Péro by Aneeth Arora was a brand that epitomised this trend, bringing back the 1920s and 1930s with a vibrant reimagination of Alice in Wonderland: The Mad Hatter's Tea Party. The collection featured floral motifs, medallions, and geometric forms realised in 3D through various techniques. The collaboration with global artisans and the infusion of traditional motifs highlighted the fusion of diverse cultures and traditions. Designers skillfully merged traditional motifs and modern designs, celebrating the rich heritage of India in a contemporary and artistic manner.
Glam-leisure Glam-leisure was all about effortless style and comfort, showcasing a blend of glamorous elements with leisurewear. Designers presented garments that embraced comfort and ease without compromising on style. The standout feature of this trend was the fusion of casual and glamorous elements, giving a relaxed yet fashionable look.
Designers who embraced the glam-leisure trend included Kriti Kharbhanda, who showcased trouser suits, sequinned bombers and balloon pants. The pieces were characterised by pronounced bodices and corset construction, adding a touch of structure and sophistication. This trend offered a versatile and stylish wardrobe, blending glamour with relaxed silhouettes.
The glam-leisure chic trend redefined the concept of everyday attire, offering options that were both fashionable and comfortable.
Infinity motif The infinity motif was a symbol of endless creativity and possibilities, splashed on various garments. Designers toyed with this motif, incorporating it into garments like jumpers, bombers and trenchcoats. The recurring theme of the infinity symbol added a sense of intrigue and modernity to the designs.
Designer Pawan Sachdeva embraced the trend, presenting a menswear collection where the infinity motif was prominently featured. The motif appeared on jumpers, bombers and trenchcoats crafted in mesh, symbolising endless possibilities and creativity. The collection showcased the bold use of the infinity symbol, adding a unique and modern touch to the garments. The infinity motif trend symbolised endless creativity and a forward-thinking approach to fashion.
Capes One of the biggest hits on the runway this time around were the long flowy capes. Designer Amita Gupta, in his collection The Age of Urban Reforestation, featured a series of capes and ethnic jackets in femme fatal colours like red, black and white, along with a little geometric detailing. This collection was a hit with the audience for its edgy yet sophisticated appeal.
Parineeti Chopra was styled as the showstopper for Faabiiana’s collection Qurbat in a heavily detailed shimmery cape, with delicate mukaish work. The jacket was an instant hit, as it had the perfect blend of glamour and subtlety. Pankaj & Nidhi also showcased their collection of blazers with a post-modern disco twist. The vibrant and colourful blazers had an eclectic mix of styles and cuts.
Capes made a strong statement on the runway. From bridalwear to resort wear, long and flowy capes were seen in abundance. The lightweight design of the capes makes them perfect for the summer months and their versatility allows them to be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Printed suits A new era of stylishly dressed people in contemporary printed suits is here; say goodbye to the traditional tuxedo look. Modern printed suits are quite versatile. This season, look out for pastel silhouettes — bold and angular patterns, smart cut, bespoke tailoring, and abstract prints on dark backgrounds.
The collection of Park Avenue’s City Casual celebrated individuality. Actor Rajkummar Rao and Shantanu Maheshwari turned showstoppers for the show, each of them making a statement in structured modern suits.
These modern printed suits are perfect for the fashion-forward groom who isn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd. Whether you opt for bold, bright colours or toned-down, understated prints, your modern printed suit will be sure to turn heads and make a statement. The contemporary, tailored cut of these suits ensures that you look chic and sophisticated, while the prints add an extra touch of personality.
