Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 opened in great style with the spectacular dual shows presented by DHL featuring the collections of the very talented Masaba Gupta and avant garde designer Amit Aggarwal. Colours of DHL were cleverly brought into the collections by both the designers who revealed their latest line of garments to a very appreciative audience.

The name Masaba Gupta conjures up visions of collections that are feisty, free and fashionable. Star winner of the Gen Next designer show in 2009, Masaba’s rise up the fashion ladder has been phenomenal. Her collection “Wanderess” inspired by renowned poet Roman Payne’s character Saskia, had all the characteristic touches that the young designer lavishes on her garments.

Inspired by the Goan woman whose adventurous and free thinking nature has been iconic, Masaba brought these qualities along with a hint of delicate touches for her line. Going for the vintage 1960’s look, the colour palette burst onto the ramp with lavish use of yellow and neon hues and created that splash of Goan flavour. Masaba’s fabric choice was scuba, satin, jersey and crepe for the trio of prints.

Touches of Goa appeared in the form of geometric leaves and flowers print for loose beach covers over white bikini. Saris with the characteristic Masaba prints in white, brown, black and yellow were teamed with long sleeved black/white leaf print blouse. Flared minis in beige, slinky gowns with multi prints, long sleeved, thigh length jacket with flared pants and cut-out sari gown, brought the mood of the fun times of the 1960s. Trapeze printed top with bell sleeves, attached dupattas for skirts, bell bottom style shararas, long sleeved tail-coat cholis with printed saris and drop waist will-power maxi added to the options that Masaba offered.

For a show stopping entry, it had to be Shilpa Shetty in a slinky black printed cut-out gown with an attached dupatta drape – just the right addition for a beach time soirée 

When it comes to garments that leave a lasting impression on the audience, Masaba Gupta’s “Wanderess” collection will once again create waves in fashion circles.