Designer duo Ashima-Leena will bring alive the aesthetics of South India in the form of their collection "Dakshna" at the upcoming BMW Indian Bridal Fashion Week.
The five-day extravaganza will open today with Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla's show. Ashima-Leena will display their work tomorrow.
"We have taken inspiration from South India. We have named the collection 'Dakshna' because it is our offering from South India. There, temple worship has been a glorious tradition. Through the collection, we aim to bring the sense of purity and tradition for our brides," Ashima said.
When asked why they opted for South Indian heritage for this collection, the designer said, "I think bridal wear is going back to tradition now. So, we decided to experiment with the traditional South Indian wear and mix it with contemporary style."
The line takes elements from the South in forms of motifs, jewels, fabrics and drapes.
"Finely appliqued temple motifs on rich silks, hand-embroidered jewelled motifs and borders will bring subtle illumination," Ashima said.
She added that organza, French net, specially woven south silk and brocades are the highlights of "Dakshna".
The colour palette includes bright, intense and contrasting hues of indigo blue, crimson red, beige, fuchsia, marigold orange, mellowed gold, emerald green, black amalgamated with the quintessential South gold.
"Re-invented lengths and patterns will take focus, with blouses, necklines, cowl drapes and layering of sheer fabrics. The iconic lehanga-choli will transform into a kaleidoscope of colours and patterns crafted for both the contemporary and the traditional bride," the designer said.
