Today's women don't want to be overdressed: Varun Bahl

Modern women don't want to look overdressed, says designer Varun Bahl, adding that his creations are an amalgamation of Indian and western silhouettes and designs.

From stylish cocktail dresses, elegant saris created with modern designs, sophisticated cuts to anarkali suits, embellished lehengas with intricate handwork embroidery and beadwork - Bahl offers perfect creations for modern women.

"A woman today doesn't want to look overdressed. So, she looks for designs that bring tradition and modernity together," Bahl, known for his signature applique work and block printing, told IANS in an interview.

"My creations are an amalgamation of Indian and western silhouettes and designs. The outfits are perfect for both pre- and post-wedding events. Like a sari-gown replacing a cocktail draped dress, and an anarkali becoming a daywear option," Bahl added.

Ready to showcase his latest fall 2013 haute couture collection on day two of the Delhi Couture Week (DCW) starting July 31, the designer is known for his immense contribution to the fashion industry.

Bahl, who launched his label in 2001, creates simple and structured outfits using varied weaving techniques which are available domestically as well as at 42 stores in Italy and 10 in Spain. His creations are also being sold in the Middle East and other parts of the world.

Bahl's latest one-of-its-kind collection comprises 40 pieces created using fabrics like silk, chiffon, wool-crepe, and bubble-crepe combined with diaphanous gauze, organza, and silk net.

"I started working on the collection three months back. Like my previous creations, this time also I have used winter pastel shades like pale blue, dust pink and powdered moss. You will also see the hints of ochre, fuchsia, red and black," he said.

"Every piece differs in terms of fabrics, cuts, embroideries and designs. Some of the silhouettes are also embellished with hand-embroidery and beadwork. We have not used any standout weaves but focussed on creating beautiful embellishments."

An expert in blending vintage with contemporary silhouettes, Bahl stressed that a haute couture collection is not created in bulk and is made available only on personal orders.

"Also, when it comes to haute couture, there is no price tag because each garment is custom-made to a buyer's order and is not sold off the rack," said Bahl.

The designer, a regular at the fashion weeks, also said he is open to venture into different areas like interiors, carpets and fragrances.

"We are open to all the possibilities. The market for perfumes is complex, and when the time is right, I am sure we will take the necessary steps to capture that segment as well," Bahl said.

(Ritika Arora can be contacted at ritika.a@ians.in)