Even unwell Aishwarya perfect for Manish Malhotra at AICW 2015

Designer Manish Malhotra unveiled his newest limited edition collection titled "The Empress Story" at the Amazon India Couture Week (AICW) 2015 and who could be the better choice than beauty queen Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as the showstopper for the final show of the fashion gala.

Despite being under the weather, Aishwarya looked as confident as ever as she walked for the designer in an ensemble that reflected femininity and sensuousness. "I have known him (Manish) from very long . He was with me right from the beginning when I started my journey so it is certainly a proud moment for me to walk for him as a showstopper.

I have viral but I had to be here as I always liked his collection. Its so special," said the globally renowned Indian actress and the mother of one. The showcase was held at a special off-site event at The Leela Palace here on Sunday and since Malhotra is known as the favourite designer amongst the Bollywood fraternity, the show had to possess grandeur.

While the ramp was decorated like a rose garden with chandeliers adding more spunk to the entire feel of the finale, the presence of some of the popular faces from Bollywood added the glamour quotient. While Kriti Sanon, Aditi Rao Hydari, Pernia Qureshi and Pakistani actor Imran Abbas represented the young faces of Bollywood, veterans like Shabana Azmi added their own charm to the fashion gala.

However what took everyone's attention was the presence of veteran actress Jaya Bachchan who was not only seen sharing some light moments with Shabana but also spotted clapping for her daughter-in-law Aishwarya as she walked the ramp. Malhotra showcased his collection titled "The Empress Story" - a line that will debut in Spring 2016 at the first Manish Malhotra Flagship Boutique in London and Dubai.

Sharing his inspiration this time and the idea of choosing Aishwarya as the showstopper, the designer told IANS: "2015 is a very special year for me as it marks 25 years as a costume stylist/director and 10 years of my label 'Manish Malhotra'. What makes it even more special is Aishwarya returned to runway after five years as the showstopper for my show. She is a style icon. She is beautiful and stunning."

The design of the collection was influenced by his passion for reviving centuries-old Indian craftsmanship. Each outfit in the collection was special as there were limited editions and it presented Indian intricate detailing on classic western silhouettes. From textured fabrics, voluminous gown-like silhouettes that could be worn as an ode to 'lehengas', trails of exquisite silk and intricate embroidery were some of the highlights of the line.

The colour palette moved from metallic silver and antique gold to rich burgundy, old rose pink, pearl grey and coffee brown. There were also elaborate mushroom-flower and bird motifs in delicate threadwork, bringing to life the legacy of exquisite craftsmanship that the designer is known for.

The couture soiree also shared a glimpse into the Manish Malhotra men's collection that varied from structured jackets, trench coats and waistcoats, in hues of blue and black with a touch of intricate embroidery. The men's Collection will be available at the brand's standalone men's boutique in Delhi this winter.