JJ Valaya gives Russian touch to Indian attire

“The collection is all Indian attire, but with a kiss of Russia. I feel we should have some fun on the ramp. The czar and czarina from Russia are known for elaborate headgear, so we wanted to include it in our collection. It was to add a “fun” factor on the runway.”

Ace designer JJ Valaya turned a fashion platform into a cultural cauldron by infusing elements of Russia and India into his collection 'The Bolshoi Bazaar', which he showcased at the Amazon India Fashion Week on Wednesday at New Delhi.

The collection gave subtle hints of its influence from Russia, staying true to Indian traditional roots. There were capes, saris, dresses, skirts, jackets and anarkalis teamed with churidars giving a modern yet distinct Indian look to the ensembles. The collection has been created using signature weaves, crepes, voils, georgette and other fine fabrics with techniques like digital printing, applique and Valaya's signature embroideries.

Valaya narrated a colour story in a very lucid manner with one colour gradually making way for a new shade to rule the runway. It all started with pastel shades, which moved on to antique,metallic and neutral tones with dabbles of green, blue and orange. Another highlight of the collection was the use of head gear.

The designer noted that it was to add a “fun” factor on the runway. “I feel we should also have some fun on the ramp. The czar and czarina from Russia are known for elaborate headgear, so we wanted to include it in our collection,” he said.

Talking about calling his friend for the show, Valaya, one of the pioneering fashion designers in the country, said: “I have a quirky habit of getting my friends walk the ramp. It has happened a couple of seasons back and I did it again with nine super cool people. I can tell you that they were nervous as hell but walked with confidence." Valaya also noted that the collection is not couture. He said: “We will have a completely different spin with the collection when the time comes."