Above and right: Binita Ratnakar's Timeless Pause collection fused the richness of Indian cultures and lifestyles. Below: 'Tranquil lakes, scenic locales, and rich tradition' from the Kashmir region form the inspiration behind Archana Raina's Return of Innocence collection, which combined tradition with modernity.

AS THE "Neo-Druids" strutted down the ramp, the music went up. So did the lights. A hush descended in the auditorium. The colours were earthy. The blouses cut well. The skirts straight. The fabric silk woven and "strip-knitted". Arti Sandhu's collection, which included clothes for both men and women, won an award at the end of the evening.
   But that would be telling. So let us get on with the story first and come to the end later. So…
   Skirts and gowns formed a part of the womenswear collection designed by Anupreet Bhui. The Return of Innocence by Archana Raina sought to redefine the traditional silhouettes of the clothes of Kashmir, a state in north India, known all over the world for its scenic beauty. Jacquards, angora wool and silk pashmina lent grace to the chogas and pherans (loose, long shirts) in soft blues, lilacs and greys. Binita Ratnakar's collection also was inspired by an amalgam of Indian cultures and lifestyles, bringing a rustic elegance to formalwear.