Meditative yet decadent. Luxe yet passionately edgy and raw. Built on a structure of heritage, yet modern in its rendition. JJ Valaya’s ‘Baroda’, inspired by Gujarat, showcased at Hyundai India Couture Week in association with Reliance Brands, an FDCI initiative, at JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity, on Friday, was a tale as rich as India’s culture. A master of senses, Valaya sent out a line of reinterpreted classics, to the tunes of live music. The ‘modern royalty’ as Valaya described his muses as, mirrored the Gen Z that wants pockets in lehngas or a belt to drape her sari with a twist.
And they walked on the beige-and-red stage in their lehngas, Anarkalis, jackets, saris, flared pants that spelt sensational regalia. The signature chevron was layered to dramatic effect as were the chunky jewellery. The embroidery on statement lehngas was an ode to the artisans. There was a bride in mustard and one in blue. There was the quintessential red of course, but plenty of pastels too. Trailing veils added to the romance. A line of prints looked like canvases of joy.
The hair and make-up were gorgeous, lending an oomphy retro splendour. Those eyes and the buns. Full marks to Valaya’s daughter, the enormously talented Hoorvi J. Valaya, the stylist of the show.
His men were sharp and crisp in their stylised sherwanis and mojris. Classic.
With all his muses clapping for him, Valaya’s little jig at the end summed up the mood. Joyful and always present.
