Understated opulence takes on Mode Ville

Fahad Hussain displayed a variety of designs from his collection. PHOTO: PUBLICITY

The designer who is renowned for his use of dark, subdued hues, had experimented with bright colours in his new  couture. “People usually associate my work with dark colours; so this season I’m staying away from that,” said Hussain.

Thus he had vibrant greens, emerald, orange, pink, peach, red, and vivid tones of blue. These striking hues were furthered accentuated by embroidery and jewelled.Yet some items in dark had still made it on to the display; like black lay-over drapes priced at a reasonable Rs 2,000. The overall look projected by the garments was simple yet sophisticated, representing understated elegance — a  of Hussain’s brand philosophy.

Others who attended the exhibition also admired the use of adornments in the young designer’s work. “Fahad makes the designs for the embellishments, brooches, and gems and then a jeweller crafts them,” explained Arslan Ahmad Khan, the creative director of Verve Event Management. “It’s like artwork — plain but with some beautiful shoulder work. He also does a lot of draping.”

Commenting on the turnout at the exhibition, Khan said, “People have been coming in all day; the pret wear is really popular.” He suggested wearing choridars with the casual pert-drapes and dresses, to get the season’s latest look.

The exhibition also showcased Hussain’s line of menswear comprising denim kurtas, sharwanis, velvet achkans, and shirts with eastern motifs. However, it was the formal and bridal joras on display that stole the show. With intricate work using jewels and real gemstone like jade and amethyst, and high-quality fabric, these outfits range from Rs35,000 to Rs150,000. For the typical bride who shop at upscale multi-label stores like Mode Ville, the prices of Hussain’s couture were a mere pittance.