Rohit Bal: Opulent, over-the-top fashion

Here's a glimpse of the designer's Persian-inspired 'Khakastri' collection, showcased on Day Three of HDIL India Couture Week.

It may have been the second time he showcased the same line of garments this year (click here to see more of the same at Delhi Couture Week in July), but Rohit Bal managed to put on as dramatic a show as can be expected from the wild child of Indian fashion -- without any Bollywood showstopper.

Both ethnic and Westernwear competed for attention on the ramp -- a royal palette of ivory, gold, royal blue, deep red and black defined everything from long jackets to geometric gowns.

Titled 'Khakastari', which translates from Persian as 'colours of ash', the collection was all about luxury and making statements. Take a look.

We start with this creamy cutwork and tulle number sporting a sheer bodice.

Model Carol Gracias is up next, in this nettled number with gigantic spiralling sleeves.

It may not rate too highly on the wearability scale, but this beige gown, with its unique slatted design and tulle skirt, certainly scores bigtime on creativity and finish.

For the men, the designer offers up this white and gold jacket, teamed with an androgynous netted shirt within.

Swirling becomingly, this paisley ghagara and matching jacket are the 'in' thing for the coming wedding season.

Embroidered black silk may not be every man's cup of tea, but those who prefer metrosexual styles will love these breeches and matching jacket.

Who says ethnicwear can't be sexy? Chocolate and gold stripes bring out the best on this plunging EM>anarkali and matching jacket.

We loved this velour coat with fruity and floral motifs, worn over a crushed kurta in grey, gold and orange.

Bal goes the Lady Gaga route with this severe-sleeved blouse, worn over a maroon-gold ghagara.

There's something distinctly Spanish about this red ensemble, with its gigantic swirls and black ribbons.

Tinu Verghese steps out in the showstopper, a gargantuan gown that moves from crochet and cutork on the sheer bodice to giant ruffles and finally, hypnotic spirals.

Bal steps out of the wings with four of his models in white and wades straight into the pool of water that was specially created on the ramp for the showing. Talk about grabbing eyeballs!