DEVAYANI MEHROTRA SHOWS INDIAN INSPIRED ELEGANGE @ VANFASHION WEEK F/W 2023

DEVYANI MEHROTRA AT VANCOUVER FASHION WEEK

The eponymous label DEVYANI MEHROTRA showed their collection on April 13th, day 2 of Vancouver Fashion Week. I was so happy to see a brand from India on the runway of VFW. Fashion is influenced by the culture from which it comes. It is commonplace for designers to use their heritage as inspiration for their brands. Sometimes ethnic costume comes into play in a designer's collection, while other times, it is the daily wear from the country of origin. India has a strong identity in its fashion. Clothing varies widely and is closely associated with the local culture, religion, and climate. The saree or sari is the basis for women's dress in India. However, there are many different styles. A long tunic worn over pants called a kurta is a staple in South Asian wardrobes. For men, the traditional dress is a matching set of a jacket and pants (or loin cloth), the origin of Western pajamas.

While western dress is commonplace in India , the hybrid of Indian and western clothing is very common. Recently, the House of Dior staged fashion shows that celebrated the collaboration of Indian and western fashion in Delhi and Mumbai. I found that the collection of Devyani Mehrotra celebrated a vision of Indian clothing that includes the influence of many cultures.

DEVYANI MEHROTRA ON THE RUNWAY

Devyani Mehrotra, who studied in India and Italy, started her label in 2019. Her vision is to “retain distinctive expressions and provide not just things but memoirs and clothes that are lovingly worn and owned”. Mehrotra seeks her inspiration from various cultures worldwide with a freewheeling nomadic attitude. Offering contemporary Indian clothing with global sensibilities, this collection is an eclectic look at combining ethnic clothes with runway fashion. The clothing that came down the runway is full of traditional Indian silhouettes, tunics, slender dresses, and flowing pants, all interpreted by this talented designer in her unique combinations.

The clothes are columns of luxurious fabrics. The rich-toned materials are embellished with embroidered flowers and leaves on hems and sleeves, and bright prints of flora and fauna. Deep teal, chartreuse, and rusty sienna are standout colours. Vibrant-hued silks, full robes, and linen menswear with traditional collarless shirts and clean lines add depth to this collection. The result is a chic, sophisticated collection incorporating traditional styles with bohemian flare. These clothes are highly wearable, comfortable, and have a relaxed elegance. Devyani Mehrotra incorporates elements from many cultures into a collection that is beautifully designed and crafted.