- Avarna Jain,
Chairperson RPSG Lifestyle Media
Designer Punit Balana Brings The Timeless Allure Of Jaipur To The Runway
Punit Balana’s Johari Bazaar collection was a vibrant showcase that paid homage to Jaipur’s eternal joie de vivre energy.
Drawing inspiration from Jaipur’s Johari Bazaar known best for its jewellery and intricate craftsmanship—Punit Balana unveiled his new collection, aptly titled 'Johari Bazaar', at the FDCI x Lakmé Fashion Week. The designer is known best for marrying tradition with contemporary elegance–he put forth a lively showcase.
For the designer, it all started with something straightforward—a casual stroll through Johari Bazaar. Enveloped by the city’s rich tradition, energy and bustling lanes Punit found a new sense of inspiration within himself.
Photograph: Punit Balana
Colourful puppets, carved wooden blocks for printing on fabric, Mughal motifs, silverchaandbalis,jharokha work…all elements that led him to design his latest collection. The runway also saw local elements such as shopkeepers with cotton candy, matkis made out of clay and a singersinging traditional Rajasthan folk songs with electronic tunes in the background.
Actor Gurfateh Pirzada opened the show in a light sage green satin kurta paired with white pants. Actor Sobhita Dhulipala turned showstopper for the show and was seen looking resplendent in a charcoal lehenga set made out of crepe fabric. The look was styled with dainty silver jewellery and the finishing touches included her smokey eyes.
Photograph: Punit Balana
Punit did away from the typical notions and clichés associated with Jaipur. Models walked down the runway in subtle yet statement-making ensembles that showed unmatched attention to detail. On the runway, we sawkhakaprints in mainly three hues jewel tones in pink purple, and sage green.
This time around the designer was big on metallic tissue that reflected shine with just a hint of light. There was also silk organza and the result was equal parts modern and refreshing.
However, we love the silhouettes that Punit introduced this time around. Especially his signature Ghagri Maxi which was reimagined as a playful dress with cutouts and a flowy skirt. We think this would make for such an amazing option the next time you’ll be attending a Haldi function.
Photograph: Punit Balana
Their bestseller bell-sleevedchogawhich has been part of many collections over the past received a new makeover in a stunning Baingani hue and featured Marodi and Dori embroidery. Anyone, who is looking to make a splash during the pre-wedding festivities—check out theirGulabiGulaalSari. Featuring embroidered borders, it is the blouse which stole the spotlight on the runway.
It’s safe to say that it's more than just a collection–Johari Bazaar takes you back in time and makes you reminisce and realise how Jaipur is timeless.
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