Brides as kings!

Designer Payal Khandwala showcased, in association with Lakme Salon, a collection that had everything what a girl getting married dreams for at the ongoing Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) Winter/Festive 2016.

The collaboration between the two brands was a perfect match for the launch of the maiden bridal collection Using these as her inspirations, the celebrated designer unveiled "The New Emperor", a show conceptualised to present fierce, fashion, modern hair and makeup looks for the daring New Age Indian bride.

Here was a fashion collection dedicated to the bride who is not content playing princess but would rather be king. Using the lion as the integral motif of the line, Payal used this icon of the king of animals to also bring forth courage and bravery as the underlying concept of the outfits.

Using her key handwoven, specially developed textiles from Benaras, Payal had the gold threads that illuminated the jewel tones and were reminiscent of vintage heirlooms. Layering played an important role in Payal's ensembles where the silhouettes were long and lean and revealed some men's wear elements. Softer fabrics like rich raw silk however ensured that the complete look highlighted the message of the New King.

Jewel tones like royal purple were perfect for the regal draped shawl blouse teamed with rust pleated pants. The stylish emerald blazer looked stunning with electric blue embroidered skirt and shirt, while the crinkled cape was the ideal cover for a red embellished lehenga. Bringing more grandeur to the collection, the deep purple poncho worn with an antique gold long skirt presented a commanding impact.

In addition the weaves of West Bengal made a stunning appearance on the ramp. Payal also introduced hand embroidery for Winter/Festive 2016 but kept it minimal and lightweight as it followed the brand's aesthetics.

'The New Emperor' fashion range by Payal as well as the superb makeup and hair looks by Lakme Salon experts, Shailesh Moolya and Sushma Khan for the 'Show Stopping Illuminate Bridal Collection' were geared for the bold, adventurous, daring woman who embraces opulence with confidence on the most important day of her life.