UAE | General
'Lungi' is Rohit Bal's latest inspiration
- By Pamela Raghunath
- Published: 00:00 July 20, 2003
The latest inspiration for Rohit Bal, one of India's top fashion designers, is the 'lungi' and 'dhoti' that has been creatively transformed into a stylish wrap-around outfit for men.
Known for his flamboyant and flashy designs, Bal shocked a packed house at the Lakme Indian Fashion Week with a collection that was not just sober but even wearable for any male who chose class and tradition.
Cream, grey, black and crimson red were the main colours that marked his jackets, trousers, wrap-arounds, long Indian coats and shirts sported by male models who wore 'sindoor', (the traditional red powder that Indian married woman wear on their forehead).
He did agree that his clothes have been toned down to get down to the business of fashion so that "it is accepted by society at large", he told Gulf News after his show. The new style also means his clothes are all reasonably priced from Rs2,000 to Rs18,000.
Combining the drama of launching a new collection and the seriousness of the business, his clothes speak of the "lost art and richness of traditional Indian heritage" as well as the variety of clothes that are worn across the country.
Embellished by tribal art, Madhubani paintings, mirror work of Gujarat and Rajasthan, embroidery of Punjab and Haryana and so on, Bal talks of a "brand new look that shows modern man is in no way less than a macho man".
Talking of his clothes, he says, "Indian men have always worn draped garments. So, why move away from it. I've only made it a little more fashionable." He thinks Indian fashion will one day be on the global map. "We have the talent and a rich heritage to fall back on. What we lack is focus."
He plans to visit Dubai for a show later this year, he said. "My collection for Dubai is usually more opulent, colourful, ornate with intricate work."
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