Gowns take the casual route

Hyderabad: Imagine a long evening dress in black with only a bow as embellishment — simple yet strikingly beautiful, or simply call it the Armani magic. Designer Naeem Khan too granted a “breathe easy” moment to gowns in his S/S 14 ready-to-wear line. Sticking to the charm of dual tones, he exhibited red appliqué on nude tulle gowns and also opted for monochrome prints and psychedelic prints to carry forward the story of casual gowns.

Vionnet entered the casually inclined gown scene in single tones displaying some brilliant texturing skills. The other V, that is Valentino, explored the relaxed look of the evening dress through Italian print art, leopard print and musical symbol prints in sheer fabrics.

“It’s a definite mood change,” declares designer Lalit Dalmia. “Gowns are no longer reserved for red carpet glory or confined to an exclusive celebrity domain. Women have opened up to the idea of slipping into one, even for the regular cocktail hours. And the transition is quite smooth if you get the basics right. That translates as silhouettes that have switched from voluminous to lean, with or without trails. There is a slight midriff and obliques show, that gives it a less ostentatious yet chic look. Instead of brocades and heavy embellishments, a smart selection of silk georgettes, silk net and chiffons bring out the thought behind the silhouettes. However, the colours can stick to the classics like emerald, blue, green, fuchsia, tones of red and metallics,” he says.

“Remember, for a more wearable spin, minimal embellishments and chic cuts are the fundamental requirements,” the designer says.
A sensual silhouette does not always have to be a lavish one, believes designer duo Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor. They say, “The alchemy of cuts and colours can define understated glamour. Gowns are now seeking that element of casualness, even the red carpet sometimes witnesses that ease. Didn’t we fall in love with the red pant-gown Emma Watson wore at Golden Globe awards this year? That’s the idea of getting away from the conventional and carving a stylish niche. Chiffon, silks and subtle laces are your best options to ease the stiffness out of the gown.”

Taking the casual route to an altogether different level is designer Mayyur R. Girotra. He says, “I would love to see a woman at a high profile event, wearing a silk gown and a denim jacket. Trust me, there is a certain thrill in breaking the glass ceiling. And if you can do it in style, then nothing like it. Gowns can spell oomph and high octane glamour even minus the haute couture essentials.”