Mumbai-born designer Anita Dongre is known for her commitment towards reviving and sustaining India’s craftsmanship and authentic textile techniques. Her collection for the 6th edition of luxury wedding exhibition titled ‘Odyssey’, Vogue Wedding Show 2018, is inspired by Rajasthan’s exquisite craft.
Dongre has always been inclined towards Rajasthani art and talking about the new derivatives for her recent collection, she shares, “I’m pleasantly surprised how Rajasthan inspires my work with every visit. My creativity is rejuvenated as I see and feel something different each time. There are crafts that are thousand years old like the gota-patti which we have revisited with every collection, bringing to life different ensembles including saris, lehengas, bandis and jackets.”
For ‘Odyssey’, Dongre has drawn inspiration from the forests of Ranthambore, that are rooted in many eras of heritage. “These majestic woods have witnessed the harmony and balance of life at its purest. This collection celebrates the promises of love and commitment and the vows of fulfilling dreams and spending a lifetime together,” she adds. The collection is handcrafted in intricately embroidered motifs and the colour palette speaks of a variety of vibrant colours. “This season, the colour palette speaks of a variety of jewel tones with deep ruby reds, emerald greens, sapphire blues and softer pastel shades, enthused by the colours of the vibrant bird species and lakes of Ranthambore.”
The lehengas are classics with varied styles of cholis and contrasting dupattas. The menswear line sees some traditional safaas and further experimentation with fabric texturing and silhouettes. “While the embroideries and motifs have been inspired by the wildlife of Ranthambore, the textiles have been adorned with intricately embroidered motifs such as our signature craft of gota-patti along with handcrafted dori, sequin, pearl, zari, zardozi and kardana work,” shares Dongre, who has dressed some of the world’s most prominent political and royal figures, including Hillary Clinton, Kate Middleton, and Sophie Grégoire Trudeau.
For Dongre, the bridal wear this season is all about embracing the rich cultural heritage of India. “I strongly believe that it’s essential to sustain, preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage and crafts of India. And one of the many ways we can do so is by giving a contemporary twist to these heritage weaves, making them much more appealing to the younger generations. We weave the traditional motifs and crafts into modern designs and silhouettes.”
From handcrafted bridal gowns, embroidered cholis to flirty tulle skirts, Dongre’s pieces are designed for those who want to adorn traditional elements fused with a contemporary sensibility.
(The 6th edition of luxury wedding exhibition, Vogue Wedding Show 2018 will be held from August 3 to 5, 2018 in Delhi)
