For 25 years, the Payal Singhal label has represented the leading light of fashion in modern Indian bridal and occasion wear with international influences blended with rich cultural heritage. Since its inception in 1999, each collection has paid homage beautifully to tradition and contemporary style, drawing on Mughal art and architecture, yet always imbued with that timeless vintage charm.And the designer’s latest collection showcase was just an example of her design finesse.
But, it was Indian film actress, Shriya Saran’s mesmerising Kathak act which left the fashion lovers totally spellbound. At Lakmé Fashion Week in association with FDCI, Payal gave the audience a trip down memory lane by showcasing her treasure trove. She presented classic designs with an edge. The Silver Jubilee show was a grand affair as it started with Bollywood actress Shriya Saran lighting the runway. But the energy went a notch up as American YouTuber and singer Vidya Vox performed live, and in no time, the duo managed to cast a spell over the audience by making the models come alive as they showcased Payal’s creations.
For this milestone, Payal revisited a few of the most iconic silhouettes and colour palettes of her collection but with a fresh perspective. Deconstructed anarkalis, backless corset cholis, kalidar shararas, and ruffled lehengas made their appearance infused with Mughal-era design elements. Called ‘Tazhib,’ the Arabic art of gilding fits aptly to this luxurious collection of tissue, organza, velvet, and Chanderi set in intricate motifs of mukaish, gota, Lucknowi, and zari. The colour scheme was elegant and said it all while turning the transition of black and white classics into full-scale vibrant tones, a sepia-toned nostalgia reminiscent of the Mughal era.
Payal’s signature deconstructed anarkalis and corset cholis, kalidar shararas, and ruffled lehengas oozed new life on the runway. Each piece was a simplified representative of timeless Mughal design elements by Payal, only enamelled with playful tassels and dramatic cocktail saris that featured exquisitely designed cholis. Harem pants paired with intricately cropped blouses were styled perfectly in models.
Rich and sumptuous fabrics like organza, velvet and Chanderi were what Payal chose to make her collection a combination perfect for the festive season. Mukaish, gota, Lucknowi, and zari, ancient traditional embroidery techniques, were used with an innovative twist, yielding garments that shimmered like an iridescent sheen—very much the meaning of “Tazhib.”
Shriya Saran performs Kathak for designer Payal Singhal at Lakme Fashion Week 2024
The colour palette captured the sepia tones of the Mughal era with splashes of black and white for an all-rounded relief.
“As we mark 25 years of the Payal Singhal label, it was a moment to reflect and evolve further,” Payal remarked backstage post-show. “‘Tazhib’ is indeed about our fervour to blend tradition with modernity. Here, in this particular collection, we have redefined some of our signature statements, coupled with that with a twist as if for the new age. We celebrate our Mughal heritage in conjunction with experimenting and growing,” she added.
Payal Singhal’s “Tazhib” collection is a grand tribute to her Silver Jubilee, marrying signature design sensibilities with modern aesthetics – sure to excite buyers as the festive season approaches.
