Saif scorches ramp for Rathore's ready-to-wear line

Actor-producer Saif Ali Khan turned heads as he hit the fashion runway in a black achkan with fitted bottoms to support "Bandhgala Baron" Raghavendra Rathore, who showcase d his ready-to-wear collection here.

Sporting the pencil-moustache from his upcoming film "Rangoona", Saif still managed to look royal even in an outfit from a collection with a strong black and white theme. The pocket square accentuated the look.

Consisting of a collection that is a mix of an intellectual, military and oriental look, "The Imperial India Company" is a brand inspired by the Raj and represents the best of the colonial Indo western ethos.

"This label caters to ready-to-wear customers. We believe in using fabric from our native area. We have used khadi, but it is well disguised. We have also used frog buttons," Rathore told IANS before his show at the Van Heusen GQ Fashion Nights 2015 on Tuesday.

The Indo-western blend of looks in the collection have been designed for men who would like to purchase Nehru jackets, waistcoats, shirts and achkans straight from the stores rather than patiently waiting for their customized ensembles. The collection also includes the modern Indian kurta that can be worn even with western outfits like a pair of jeans.

If Saif enhanced the beauty of the collection, actor Kabir Bedi lauded it from the front row. "24" star Mandira Bedi also cheered for the designer.

"I came here for Raghavendra. I enjoyed the evening. The clothes were very wearable and classy. I was telling someone that I bought some of the jackets and sherwanis from him six-seven years ago and they are still in my shelf. I can wear it now also. His work is timeless," she told IANS.

(The writer's trip is at the invitation of GQ India. Natalia Ningthoujam can be contacted at natalia.n@ians.in)