Designer Falguni Shane Peacock, take stock of what is in store this wedding season
Falguni and Shane Peacock combine disparate elements — feathers and sequins, bling and applique, contemporary Western silhouettes and Indian tradition — which are in sync with the sensibilities of the modern bride who looks ahead yet is rooted in the past. The designer duo will be exhibiting at the Vogue Wedding Show in the capital. The place is ideal for those looking for a complete solution to their wedding day as it brings together fashion designers, top jewellers, wedding planners, hair and makeup artists, decor experts and gifting specialists under one roof.
What is the wedding colour this year?
Brides are willing to ditch the conventional reds and pinks for pastels, champagne, silver, gold and other colours from the Parisian palette.
What has been your approach towards your ensembles for this year?
For our ensembles this year, our approach has been a juxtaposition between modern, glamorous and traditional silhouettes. Think lehengas with exaggerated gown trails, blouses with structured shoulders and extravagant sleeves. With this collection, we are trying to give the best of both worlds. It will have the perfect balance between ethnic and contemporary silhouettes.
You have stayed true to your signature style of feathers and glittery ensembles all these years while blending and experimenting with it. How has this style evolved?
Feathers and sequins are a big part of our identity and over the years we have experimented with it by using these elements in unconventional ways. From incorporating opulence through feathers, sequins and crystals in dresses and gowns, we have now made them a big part of traditional collections as well. Lehengas bearing feathers, crystal encrusted corset blouses are some of the ways in which we have reinvented our signature style.
Fashion consciousness is being increasingly acknowledged by the Indian population; how do you think this change has come about?
About time, both consumers and designers need to be fashion conscious and sustainable in their approach. I think the change was put in motion a couple of years ago and people are now becoming increasingly aware of it. The consumers now are more educated on the subject.
From designing bridal couture to resort wear, designers have to constantly update their designs as fashion trends keep changing with every season. How do you keep yourself updated and handle the pressure? What keeps you going?
For us, it is not about following the norm or doing what others are doing to keep up with the trend. We have always remained authentic in our approach so what we create comes from what we are inspired by during that time. For example, if we’re travelling to palaces across India, we translate that into our bridal couture, but if we’re vacationing on a beach abroad and are inspired by the tropical nature, we create a line that fits the aesthetic there.
Since most of your designs are dedicated to bridal couture, how do you think the fashion sensibility on ceremonial lines and wedding couture has evolved in India?
The Indian bridal market has evolved enormously over the last few years. The Indian bride of today is well-travelled and aware of international trends which makes her taste and aesthetic global. They like to experiment more with their silhouettes, the cuts, and the colour palettes instead of going for the conventional designs and in the vermillion shade.
Do you think your creative freedom gets restricted in India?
Not really, the Indian audience has evolved when it comes to fashion, they are now at par with global trends, so it’s no longer creatively restrictive. they are far more open and welcoming of newer styles, whether it’s couture or pret, the audiences are constantly looking for something unusual and unique.
Your designs are majorly fantasy-themed, dreamy with embroidery. What made you inclined towards this particular style?
Our brand’s aesthetic has always been inclined towards grandeur and opulence, maximalism has always been the way for us. We like to intertwine fashion with art, therefore, we are always inspired by larger-than-life fantasies that we bring to life through the clothes we design.
You had said, ‘Statement jewellery is a non-negotiable aspect of a bride’s checklist.’ Can you give an insight into this?
It’s all about putting the pieces together when it comes to creating that perfect bridal look. Nothing complements a couture lehenga better than statement jewellery that will instantly elevate your look.
What is new about India Couture Week this year? Apart from this, what are the forthcoming projects that you are working on?
Our India Couture Week collection this year is a celebration of the royal Indian heritage, seeking inspiration from the Fort Amer in the pink city of Jaipur. It is designed for the modern bride who wants to look contemporary yet ethereal.
Fabrics have evolved to be accepted and recognised as an art form. What is your take on this?
Fabrics are one of the most essential components of your garment, It is very important that your choice of fabric translates the vision you have for your silhouette. It should identify with your brand’s aesthetic and enable you to create art with fashion.
(The seventh edition of Vogue Wedding Show will be held from August 2 to 4 at Taj Palace.)
