Amrita Rao walks the ramp for Archana Kocchar at LFW Summer/Resort 2012

Inspired by the colours of Rajasthan and the vibrant swaying of the Kathputli dolls Archana Kochhar’s “Kathputli Kathak” collection at Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2012 was a mélange of colour and style. It was a blend of Indian silhouettes with a contemporary touch as diaphanous kurtas and kameezes in light weight fabrics swirled down the ramp.

Adding to the drama, Archana had pleats, layers and gathers cleverly used to highlight the creations. Teaming the apparel with Patiala dhoti and harem pants in Lycra, there were majestic anarkalis, Pathani kurtas worn with lehengas to give a festive touch to the line.

Sensuous raw silk, tussore, georgette, Colorado Lycra, cotton and crepe added excitement to the creations while wool work, neon cut-out appliqués and splashes of crystal dust gave shimmer and shine.

The colour story was magical with neon hues of electric blue, fuchsia, lime, yellow, beige, white and black that made the garments dazzle on the catwalk.

Using white as the base there were jumpsuits, minis with contrasting drapes, asymmetrical floor skimming tunics with slashes of neon green, cross over contrast wraps, bias cut flared one-shoulder togas and swirling layered tops.

The long white shirt with contrast collar and cuffs worn over a pristine white tiered skirt will be ideal for resort evenings; while the panelled gowns with ornate hemlines had an eye-catching appeal.

Embellishments came alive in multi hues with the Devangari script cleverly turned into embroidered boleros and the Kathputlis for Latkans or tassels edged the hems; while at other times were intricately bunched together on shoulders, yokes and bodice of the garments.

The petit, Bollywood star, Amrita Rao, looked radiant as she modelled a flowing ivory panelled gown with the beautiful colourful embroidery on the yoke and hem.

For women who want Indian splendour with a modern touch the “Kathputli Kathak” collection by Archana Kochhar will be a show stopper anywhere.