GQ | 2016
I was invited by GQ to attend the 2nd edition of Van Heusen + GQ Fashion Nights, where top designers get to showcase the latest in menswear. Needless to say, I was thrilled and ended up having a wonderful time. Ever since its inception in 2008, GQ India has been on the forefront of all things related to the modern Indian man. The last 7 years have seen GQ play an instrumental role in revolutionising menswear in India, bringing about a tidal wave of change that has trickled down to the average man on the streets, further substantiated by Fashion Nights, 2016.
DAY 1
Known for their progressive take on fashion, Shantanu & Nikhil, opened Day 1 by unveiling an exclusive line of wearable menswear called “Kashmiriyat 1990”, inspired by the tribal men of Kashmir Valley. Staying true to their identity, the collection highlighted their sensibilities of layering with materials such as leather and metal with asymmetrical draped and structured silhouettes.
Deriving inspiration from the ancient warrior clothing of Japan, Abhishek Paatni's collection included techniques like quilting, sashiko stitching and panel work. The collection captured the undying spirit of the ancient Samurai warrior and their celebration of the art of war. Classics like the kimono and hakamawere were re-interpreted into a modern avatar where functionality met tradition.
On the other hand, Sahil Aneja’s collection drew inspiration from the modern man who has evolved out of his comfort zone into the fusion-led and dynamic international fashion world. With a mix of colours like bottle green, grey, deep wine and dark blue, the collection was fit for the quintessentially refined man who loves a pop of colour with a slight twist.
Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna closed Day 1 with a collection that was minimalistic and architectural, with grid-like structures, retro colours, stripes, surface texture and metal embroidery, giving it a glamorous, classic feel.
The evening also witnessed Van Heusen showcase an exclusive premium apparel line of luxury menswear. Designed with heritage craftsmanship and a perfect blend of sophistication, the range includes finely crafted, sculpted shirts and suits for the urban man.
DAY 2
Day 2 began with Rajesh Pratap Singh's collection that focused on the winter of 2017, with emphasis on garment engineering and deconstruction. The colour palette was deep and dark with a blend of wool silk, wool cotton and wool linen fabrics. The collection highlighted his principle aim of having a core Indian aesthetic that prioritises comfort, irrespective of geographical bearings.
Kunal Rawal's collection "Grey Method" consisted of a wearable line showcasing a diverse play with Indian as well as western silhouettes. He kept the fabrication, colour palette, embroidery and panelling extremely classic.
Rohit Bal's finale collection bordered on adventurous experimentation. His collection highlighted incredible silhouettes with intricate patterns and detailing. Bal's collection was definitely for the bravehearted, embodying the spirit of spontaneity.
Van Heusen showcased an exclusive line called "Fashion Formals", creating a fluidic play between art and fashion. Inspired by Kinetic and Optical art, the range included an array of patterns and hues with optical graphics that represented technological progress in the modern world.
