Ashima-Leena recreate south India magic at IBFW 2015

With Kuchipudi dance performance and designer duo Ashima and Leena Singh's 'Dakshna' range, the stage of BMW India Bridal Fashion Week (IBFW) 2015 was transformed into south India on Saturday here.

The stage, set up like a mandap with mogra flowers decorated at the ceiling, lit up with a Kuchipudi dance performance, choreographed by Padma Bhushan award winners Raja Reddy and Radha Reddy, at the DLF Emporio here.

The designer duo's collection brought the sense of purity and of temple worship of south India and traditions of Indian brides.

With 18 ensembles, which consisted of bright coloured lehenga choli and saris, 'Dakshna' needed "nine to ten months" of research work, Leena told IANS.

Fabrics like organza, French net, specially woven south silk and brocades were the highlights of the collection and looked richer due to the usage of bright and contrasting colours like indigo blue, crimson red, beige, fuchsia, marigold orange, emerald green, black and gold.

The semi-precious jewels and patterns of temple jewellery on the ensembles were appealing too.

The fashion event also saw known faces like Ramola Bachchan, Suneet Varma and Alpana Gujral.

The five-day fashion gala will conclude on August 11 with the presentation of Varma's latest collection "Couture-A Love Story!".