1970s Bollywood. Whatever your opinion on the quality of content, few can argue that it was copious – and very glamorous. New filmmakers gave voice to the growing angst of India’s youth. A new generation of star-actors effectively broke the previous studio system to become ‘superstars’. Music and lyrics became less sugary sweet and more reflective of the social realities. Perhaps most memorably, fashion from the decade cast aside the previous demureness to become bold – giving a message in themselves.
“We walked so that today’s generation can run.” That’s how Zeenat Aman, one of the most mould breaking actors of that decade, reminisced as she opened the show for designers Shantanu and Nikhil Mehra, who presented ‘Studio Mix’, a collection that refreshed the retro look of the period with a modern flair.
Prints, flares, bell bottoms – the collection captured the aura of the decade remarkably as runway models captured the looks in a rather truncated walkway (the venue was Delhi’s Piano Man, which exuded the ‘70s Bollywood nightclub vibe perfectly) for their label Shantnu & Nikhil.
“The 1970s was a remarkable era that celebrated individuality and bold self-expression, perfectly aligning with our design philosophy,” the designers said. “We are drawn to fashion periods that challenge conventions, and the ‘70s exemplified this spirit. With its vibrant prints and iconic silhouettes like bell bottoms and paisleys, the decade provided a rich palette of styles that inspired us to reinterpret these classic elements for a modern audience, blending nostalgia with a fresh, contemporary twist.”
As for the collection, it was a parade of sleek menswear – think extravagant printed silks in night hues, tonal embroideries and smooth textures. The British paisley has been a favourite of the designers, and is oft repeated in their collections, effectively a signature. This one was no exception with elaborate surface ornamentation and varying interpretations of paisley, including embroidered leather paisleys.
While the silhouettes paid obeisance to the decade, modern touches came via pinstripes, and ruffles with a velvety sheen. The women were similarly attired, also in dark hues. Actor Sidharth Malhotra, who has in his earlier avatar frequently walked the ramp in fashion shows in Delhi, was the showstopper in a dapper outfit. Attired in a black velvet blazer with a massive gold embroidered paisley pattern on each side of the open front over a patterned shirt, he was particularly noted for a series of alluring poses with model Alicia Kaur, also stunning in a silver ensemble!
The collection also saw Saba Azad and Imaad Shah singing and playing music from the era to add another level of nostalgia to the evening, which was a star studded one by Delhi’s relatively celeb-starved standards.
The duo also joined hands with vodka maker Grey Goose to launch a collection of bar accessories. “We always hate missing the excitement of ICW, but the collaboration with Grey Goose, planned months in advance, presented a unique opportunity,” the designers added. “This partnership called for an independent show to truly do justice to the collection’s nature and our contemporary take on Shantnu & Nikhil luxe couture. It felt like the perfect moment to showcase our pivot, and we couldn’t pass up the chance to bring our vision to life in a way that an independent show uniquely allows.”
“As Indian consumers today want more elevated lifestyle experiences for self-expression, we at Bacardi India felt there is a unique opportunity to create memorable moments where French minimalism and style meet a modern Indian aesthetic,” said Mahesh Kanchan, Marketing Director, Bacardi India & Neighboring Countries. “The collaboration between Grey Goose Vive Le Voyage and designers Shantanu & Nikhil, as well as mixologist Yangdup Lama, highlights the coming together of creativity, innovation, and contemporary signatures.”
“This collaboration represents a new chapter for us in India, where the market for spirits continues to grow to be one of the largest in the world,” added Mr. Kanchan. He also emphasized how the new bar accessories collection by Grey Goose is ideal for celebrating personal milestones, professional achievements, or simply enjoying gatherings with friends.
Grey Goose is the top choice in India’s super premium vodka category, according to the brand. “With the ongoing trend of premiumization in lifestyle segments and the growing cocktail culture in India, our leadership position continues to strengthen,” pointed out Mr. Kanchan. “We are looking forward to exploring more partnerships for storytelling to bring the Grey Goose heritage of French excellence to life in a compelling way. We look forward to connecting with our consumers via collaborations in different lifestyle categories that allow moments that bring the French traditions together with an Indian narrative to life.”
Mr. Lama too expressed his delight at being part of this collaboration, saying “What better for a bartender than to have this wonderful collaboration that brings together the world’s best liquid, the best designers and such a beautiful setting. It’s a pure elevation of the martini and cocktail culture as a whole.”
According to the designers, who are not known for particularly following sartorial trends, the current dominant trends in Indian couture include a fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs, featuring intricate embroidery, rich textiles, and innovative draping techniques. “There’s a strong focus on sustainability, with designers using eco-friendly fabrics and upcycled materials. Bold color palettes, statement silhouettes, and a revival of vintage styles like the ‘70s and ‘80s are also prominent. Couture collections often blend Indian heritage with modern sensibilities, creating timeless pieces that appeal to both domestic and global audiences.”
Well, this collection should delight those looking for that glam quotient, with a bit of nostalgia thrown in!
