Of twin pallus and wraparound saris

CHENNAI: With the onset of wedding season, it was perfect time for designer Rehana to launch her bridal lounge showcasing Indian bridal couture in the finest setting. Expanding her reach from custom-made bridal wear to a designer retail outlet that displays a wide range of Anarkali suits, sequined  georgette saris, kundan jewellery and bridal saris, Rehana unveiled her collection to fashion connoisseurs and enthusiasts on Saturday.Talking about the bridal lounge, Rehana said, “All these years, I have been designing clothes based on my customer’s design and satisfaction. Now,  I feel capable of more than that and launched this range of bridal wear to include exotic anarkali suits that are coming back in fashion again.”At the launch, Rehana introduced two of her exquisite creations – The wraparound sari (Malabar sari) and the two-pallu sari. Coupled with the intricate Indian tradition of fine-fit tailoring and structured draping, the two-pallu sari was designed with a western construct –two pallus attached to the sari. The Malabar sari – more like a wraparound skirt with a brocade blouse was a fine example of contemporary Indian couture. Ten years ago, Rehana started the boutique with just one tailor and a pattern maker, but now, she has nearly 40 people working for her, creating high-end bridal clothes. “The Bridal Couture has the finest weaves, embroideries, jewels, stones and techniques. I believe in a new luxe-and-fine fit that is uniquely Indian. My artisans work in my workshop. Only the fabrics are outsourced,”  she says.Her designs are a piece of fine artisanal techniques with patchworks, zari borders and jewellery attached to the clothes - creating a new benchmark in the display of India’s rich heritage styled in a contemporary manner. She added, “Young women these days have a lot of suggestions when it comes to their wedding dress, so you need to recreate each and every design adding new style to it. Most of my clothes have different silhouettes and techniques used on them. None of it will be repeated unless if I have to customise them, based on customer’s taste.”When asked if she is often mistaken for designer Rehane, without thinking she says, “Of course, a lot of people mistake me for her. My line is unique and I specialise only in traditional clothing and jewellery.”Designer Rehana‘s boutique is at 1, McNichols Road, 2nd lane, Chetpet.