Anju Modi’s Collection Is Very Royal, But Not Exactly Innovative

The designer brings vintage Rajputana design to the centrestage in a royal way

Any talk of Anju Modi’s collection, Sunehri Kothi, unveiled at India Couture Week 2017 would be incomplete without mentioning its architectural namesake situated in Tonk. Even though it has beautiful gold emblazoned interiors with incredible detail, its exterior is nondescript and unassuming.

One look at the photographs of this kothi, and you will know the designer has done a good job interpreting its myriad textures for her collection.

The couturier also offers us some lovely contrasts, both in terms of texture and colours, that are pleasing to the eye.

But just as the collection’s muse hasn’t seen any new architectural intervention, we don’t see any innovation from Modi as well. There are no new cuts or silhouettes —nothing particularly exciting except for the craftsmanship that is top notch.

Perhaps it’s because of the focus of the collection on the costume of the miniature art of 16th century Rajasthan. Even the showstopper, Dia Mirza’s makeup is very Rajputana.

In which case, as we have mentioned before, it’s a job well done in bringing vintage design back to the centrestage. Our only gripe: thodi innovation maangta!

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