Masaba Gupta is Wendell Rodricks' 'Source of Youth' face

Wendell Rodricks Saturday showcased a collection titled "Source of Youth" that depicted the bold, free-spirited and individualistic women of today, and Masaba Gupta was the showstopper for his show at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.

Rodricks is said to be the mentor of Masaba, daughter of actress Neena Gupta and West Indian cricketer Vivian Richards, who at age 24, became the youngest fashion director of Satya Paul when she took charge of the brand in 2012.

Since then, she has worked hard to revolutionise the brand.

She walked the ramp in a black-and-red ensemble that had much layering. Her charm was in sync with the theme of the show, sponsored by Fiama Di Wills.

Speaking of the inspiration for the collection, Rodricks said: "In the pursuit of youth, I travelled to the heart of humanity: Africa, an Africa that is very different from what is preconceived. Here is a new continent, fresh with the promise of youth."

Compared to previous shows, the designer has used more fitted silhouettes this time. Some of the gowns were free-flowing, but for the most part, the silhouette was body-skimming.

The show's high point was the use of handloom technique.

"This time we have used mainly linens and silks, but have brought in the hand quality via a suite of six creative crochet pieces. These are done with a total twist on a crochet technique. The other handwork of importance is the exquisite copper wire and bead accessories that were made by Nadia Dajani (American actress) in Jordan," the designer told IANS.

The fabric used has been textured to look handcrafted. Against background of white, red, blue and yellow, the gold and black was shimmering.

Apart from the "unusual showstopper", there was also the live performance of African troupe "Shadow Acrobats" from Tanzania.

Fiama Di Wills, apart from sponsoring the show, also launched the second edition of a signature series of Couture Spa range of gel-bathing bars. Rodricks has designed this new range too.

Talking of the collaboration, the designer told IANS: "My association with Fiama has been going on for the second season. Last year, we did the collaboration to create the packaging for the Couture Spa. It was a resounding success and they renewed the contract this year as well."

"This year we enhanced the bathing experience by adding ingredients for youth. There are three variants: Oats, wild grass and white lotus. All three are known for their beauty properties. Fiama and I are confident that after last season's success, these premium gel soap bars will be welcomed by the public this festive season," Rodricks said.