Ramp beauties: Flirty summer wear, roaring 20s

Isha and Nitin Kartikeya of Dozakh sought their inspiration from the city of Prague while the '20s inspired Sougat Paul's latest line. Photographer: Dominic Xavier

The city of Prague has been a source of inspiration for many artists. Isha and Nitin Kartikeya of Dozakh were no difference. Their collection Koffee with Kafka at Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2012 looked to the very city for inspiration too.

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Using intricate tonal embroidery on backdrop like chiffon and silk, the duo's collection was feminine and breathtaking.

Colours were muted with dusty brown, white, giving way to moss green, chutney, shades of deep fuchsia and red/black ombre tones to finally stark black.

The silhouettes were lean and elegant with the side looped hemlines appearing for midis and gowns.

The overall effect of the collection was one of gentle beauty and grace, with a discreet touch of glitter and embellishments.

Layering took centre stage for most garments which is the designer duo's signature style, but it was elegantly executed to create a timeless appeal.

Designers Isha and Nitin Kartikeya take a bow.

Sougat Paul's collection The Flyaway Kites paid tribute to the roaring '20s that seemed to come to life the catwalk, as models in dropped waist flapper dresses sashayed on the ramp.

As the collection's name suggested, dresses and gowns were inspired by the colours, forms and panels of kites.

Sougat achieved colour blocking with pastels at one end and some sunburnt bright hues at the other. He textured his fabrics to give an innovative feel and a more feisty touch to the garments.
 
Silk jersey, crepe, chiffon, georgette and Dupion silk gave the collection that nostalgic look of a bygone era of fashion and style.

To extend the 1920s look further, the designer had a pink shredded ruffled skirt like this o#8800 a turquoise laser cut skirt for a slender gown and brought in a flamboyant creation with streamers on the garment.

Rikee Chatterjee walks the ramp in an immaculate and utterly feminine maxi.

Sougat Paul takes a bow as two of his models applaud the master.