The Future Of Fashion: Virtual Catwalks And Digital Couture

The Future Of Fashion: Virtual Catwalks And Digital Couture

In the past years, technological innovation and shifting consumer behavior have changed the fashion game. The latest, most exciting ones to date, are the virtual catwalks and digital couture—changing the way fashion is represented and consumed but more importantly created. Yet these innovations are some fleeting fad, providing a sea change in the landscape of fashion to talk about in times to come when digital and physical blend seamlessly. The Rise of Virtual Catwalks The concept of a virtual catwalk isn’t precisely new. However, the way it was executed over the years has changed drastically. Traditionally, fashion shows are at the epitome of the industry, allowing designers to have parades showcasing their newest creations to the elite. With the COVID-19 pandemic and its restriction on physical gatherings, this suddenly changed as designers turned to digital presentations to meet their audiences. Virtual catwalks are an interesting alternative, for they allow the designer to do digital showcases of collections. These shows can be broadcast live or pre-recorded to allow viewers the flexibility to participate from any part of the world. Compared with actual catwalks that are essentially limited by construction and rigidity, virtual catwalks can be created with new staging and lighting effects. It enables creativeness, and thus, more engaging and creative presentations can be carried out, which at times may not be practical in a physical space. Moreover, catwalks democratize access to fashion. While real shows are mostly exclusive, virtual presentations allow reaching a large number of people around the world, even people who were not given the chance to be part of any famous fashion events. This shift falls into the general trend of openness that fashion is undergoing presently, opening itself up to various kinds of audiences. Digital Couture: When Fashion Meets Technology Another breakthrough revolutionizing the fashion world is digital couture. The latter, in contrast to traditional couture, is handmade. Instead, it’s a completely virtual process for creative design, where the designer makes digital clothing using special software. It never really leaves the virtual realm but can be displayed during a virtual fashion show, sported by avatars within the digital space, or used for augmented reality experiences. Probably the most outstanding feature of digital couture is that it can go beyond the physical. It can flout basic tenets of physics, thus offering designers the kind of freedom to come up with fairy-tale pieces that would turn out impossible to obtain with classic materials and techniques. Impact on Fashion Commerce and Consumer Experience The nature of fashion commerce and consumer experience is also being changed by this digital couture catwalk. Virtual fashion shows and digital garments help to enable new levels of engagement between brands and customers. Other interactive features—like the ability to try a digital garment virtually or examine 3D models of the garments—further enhance the shopping experience and hence provide an immersive manner for consumers to connect with fashion. NFTs have also been part of brands’ experiments in fashion. Since they are distinct digital assets, NFTs could be used to prove ownership of digital garments or limited pieces of fashion. By using NFTs, designers and brands can be allowed to give out unique digital fashion pieces that can be traded, sold, or purchased in virtual marketplaces. This fusion of blockchain technology opens new streams in revenue creation and links exclusively with digital fashion. Challenges and Considerations While virtual catwalks and digital couture open up a field of tantalizing possibilities, they are not unproblematic. One of the most significant challenges is how to ensure that advances in technology are equally at the disposal of designers and consumers alike—the ‘digital divide.’ As digital fashion becomes more established, questions of intellectual property and digital rights management will more and more need to be confronted in support of the creations of designers. Looking Ahead The future of fashion will undoubtedly be linked to the new virtual and digital technologies. Virtual catwalks and digital couture are not momentary innovations; rather, they portray some important changes in how fashion is conceptualized, created, and consumed. The extent to which these developing technologies will further shape the fashion industry and how designers and consumers engage with fashion remains to be seen. Conclusion Inclusive creativity and sustainable style are what the future of fashion is about, and virtual catwalks with digital couture show the way forward. As the industry embraces these innovations, it will go on to evolve, inspiring and opening up a glimpse into the future wherein fashion will be only bounded by one’s imagination.

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 7 Sustainable Fashion Brands In India Worth Your Attention

7 Sustainable Fashion Brands In India Worth Your Attention

Over the last few years, sustainable fashion in India has gained a lot of prominence with the increasing realisation of consumers about the environmental and ethical impact of clothing. With growing concern over whether the industry can ever shape up and be responsible for its actions, some Indian brands are putting themselves at the forefront of this change, combining style with real sustainability. Here are seven sustainable fashion brands in India making waves and are worth your attention. Sustainable Fashion Brands: Fabindia Fabindia is one such pioneer of sustainable fashion in India, truly upholding the spirit of traditional craft while taking care of the ecosystem. Incepted in 1960, the company sources raw materials from rural talent to produce garments that pay a fitting tribute to the rich textile heritage of India. Fabindia mainly employs natural dyes and organic fabrics, therefore hugely reducing final product ecological footprints. Fabindia has already set a benchmark in India through its practice of promoting responsible fashion by supporting local artisans and advocating for sustainable practices. No Nasties No Nasties hails from Mumbai and champions the cause of 100% organic and fair-trade fashion. It sources in organic cotton, making its stocks in clothes stylish and contemporary, while ensuring each garment is free from harmful, unwanted chemicals and pesticides. This brand believes in the welfare of the workers and thus it has in place good labor practices that ensure all workers get good wages and work safely. No Nasties is focused on reducing its carbon footprint through eco-friendly packaging while minimizing waste. Upasana Upasana is an innovative label with a powerful approach to sustainable living and contemporary design. Started in 2007 by Upasana S. in Auroville, the name is emerging and is associated with the use of organic and natural materials like handwoven fabrics and recycled textiles. Upasana incorporates sustainable production methods through transparent supply chains and assures ethical labor conditions based on fair trade. The zero-waste concept supports creativity in using all offcuts and scraps of the material. Buna Buna is a relatively young brand in the sustainable fashion sector, but it has caught a lot of attention due to its different approaches toward providing eco-friendly garments. At the very heart of handcrafted, organic, and upcycled materials, Buna often reflects traditional Indian techniques—hand block printing and embroidery in its designs—creating modern aesthetics married with sustainable practices. Khadi & Co. Khadi & Co. is a brand that celebrates the traditional Indian fabric, Khadi, in a very modern way by giving it a cool and sustainable twist. Khadi is a handspun and hand-woven cloth identified with Indian heritage and is known for its minimal environmental impact as against machine-made textiles. Given new meaning, Khadi & Co. revives the traditional weave with contemporary and trendy clothing all the while staying true to its origin. Its commitment to being a ‘sure jack’ for rural weavers and eco-friendly practices makes it very well-placed within the sector of sustainable fashion. Doodlage Doodlage is another brand that has made quite a name in reimagining fashion’s waste. Initiated by Kriti Tula in 2014, Doodlage solely stands by the basic principle of upcycling fabric waste and additional material supplies towards developing fashionable sustainable clothing. The brand is known for its special application of upcycled materials and methods that convert such materials into wearable fashion. Not only does Doodlage speak volumes in promoting a less wasteful lifestyle, but it also reflects how fashion can be innovative and considerate towards the planet. RMS RMS is a high-end fashion brand with a sustainable nuance. Created by Reetika Manchanda, RMS leads when it comes to natural, eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, linen, and bamboo. In every collection, classic, graceful designs are embodied into pieces that are designed by and created for quality and sustainability. This label promotes ethical means of production that respect both the people and the planet when making each garment. Conclusion The birth and rise of sustainable fashion in India resonates with a growing awareness and community of commitment towards embracing not just the beautiful, but also the good and the true in fashion. These seven labels—Fabindia, No Nasties, Upasana, Buna, Khadi & Co., Doodlage, and RMS—are a vanguard in this movement, giving consumers stylish options in tune with their values. In buying from these brands, you are truly making a statement in style while returning the due respect to the planet for a more sustainable and ethical future. Take one step closer to embracing these options sustainably and be a part of the positive change in the industry.

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 Nouria- Celebrating The Essence Of The Modern Woman

Nouria- Celebrating The Essence Of The Modern Woman

Nouria – a brainchild of Dipti Advait and Nouria embodies a fine balance of comfort and elegance, transcending textiles to become a canvas for power and self-expression. Designed for versatility, Nouria’s pieces are crafted to be worn in myriad ways, catering to the dynamic needs of contemporary fashion.    Nouria embraces the idea that independent thought and self-expression are the true luxuries in today’s time. Our clothing is ideal for regular women who are doing exceptional things, exploring the world, owning their unique stories, and embracing bold and confident styles. To know about the brand in detail, here is a small questionnaire that was answered by the founder, Dipti Advait herself.  Q. Inspiration and Design Process: How do your travels, cultural experiences, and  personal passions influence your design aesthetic for Nouria? What is your creative  process for transforming these inspirations into wearable pieces? Ans: At Nouria, our designs are deeply influenced by my travels, cultural experiences,  and personal passions. Each collection is a reflection of the places I’ve visited, the  vibrant cultures I’ve encountered, and the stories that resonate with me. For instance, a  trip to Rajasthan might inspire a collection rich in intricate embroidery, while a stroll  through a bustling European market could lead to a line that blends old-world charm  with modern silhouettes. My creative process begins with absorbing these  inspirations—whether it’s the colors of a sunset, the texture of traditional textiles, or the  energy of a local festival—and then transforming them into wearable pieces that speak  to the modern woman. Sketching, fabric selection, and draping are key stages where these ideas come to life, ensuring each design captures the essence of its inspiration  while remaining true to Nouria’s aesthetic.  Q. Celebrity Collaborations: How do you approach collaborations with celebrities like  Kareena Kapoor Khan? What factors do you consider when designing pieces  specifically for them?  Ans: Collaborating with celebrities like Kareena Kapoor Khan is an exciting opportunity  to merge our design vision with their unique style. When designing for a celebrity, I  consider their personal aesthetic, the event or occasion, and how Nouria’s design  philosophy can complement and enhance their look. It’s important to create pieces that  feel authentic to both the celebrity and the brand. For example, with Kareena, known for  her timeless elegance and confidence, we might focus on designs that are  sophisticated yet bold, ensuring the pieces reflect her personality while staying true to  Nouria’s ethos of modern femininity.  Q. Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality: Nouria is known for its blend of comfort  and elegance. How do you achieve this balance in your designs? What are the key  considerations when designing pieces that are both stylish and functional? Ans: Nouria’s blend of comfort and elegance is achieved through thoughtful design and  meticulous attention to detail. When creating a piece, I consider how it will feel as much  as how it will look. This means choosing fabrics that drape beautifully while allowing for  ease of movement, and designing silhouettes that are flattering yet practical. Our Mia  Shirt and Tina Skirt coord set is a perfect example—it’s versatile enough to be styled in  multiple ways, offering both chic appeal and comfort. The key is to design with the wearer in mind, ensuring that every piece not only looks stunning but also feels  effortless to wear.  Sustainability and Ethical Practices: What steps is Nouria taking to ensure  sustainability and ethical practices in its production process? How do you balance  the desire for luxury with environmental responsibility?  Ans: While Nouria is not yet fully sustainable, we are committed to taking steps towards  sustainability in the near future. We recognize the importance of ethical practices and  environmental responsibility, and we are exploring ways to incorporate eco-friendly  fabrics, upcycle materials, and work closely with artisans to ensure fair compensation.  Our goal is to balance luxury with sustainability as we continue to evolve, creating  pieces that not only look and feel luxurious but also reflect a commitment to a more  responsible fashion industry.  Q. Future Trends and Innovations: What are your predictions for future trends in  fashion design? How do you see Nouria evolving and adapting to these trends? Are  there any innovative techniques or materials you’re exploring for future  collections?  Ans: Fashion is ever-evolving, and at Nouria, we stay ahead of trends while remaining  true to our brand’s essence. I see a future where sustainability will play an even greater  role, with innovations in materials like biodegradable fabrics and sustainable dyes. We’re also exploring technology-driven designs that offer personalization and  adaptability. Nouria will continue to evolve by incorporating these trends while  maintaining our focus on timeless, versatile pieces that empower women. Innovation  will come not only in what we design but in how we produce and present our  collections.  Q. Empowering Women through Fashion: How do you believe fashion can empower  women? What message do you want to convey through Nouria’s designs? Ans: Fashion has the power to empower women by allowing them to express their  individuality, confidence, and strength. At Nouria, our designs are created to celebrate  the modern woman—her authenticity, her free spirit, and her ability to balance elegance  with boldness. Through our collections, we aim to convey a message of self-love and  empowerment, encouraging women to embrace their unique style and feel confident in  their skin. Q. Challenges and Opportunities: What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in  building Nouria? How have you overcome these challenges, and what opportunities  have they presented?  Ans: Building Nouria has been an incredible journey filled with both challenges and  opportunities. One of the biggest challenges has been scaling our production while  maintaining the quality and craftsmanship we’re known for. We’ve overcome this by  fostering strong relationships with our artisans and investing in sustainable practices   that allow us to grow responsibly. These challenges have also presented opportunities  to innovate, whether it’s through exploring new markets, launching exclusive  collections, or expanding our digital presence.  Q. Brand Expansion: What are your plans for expanding the Nouria brand? Are there  any new product categories or markets

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 JD Design Awards 2024: Celebrating Bengaluru’s Next-Gen Design Innovators

JD Design Awards 2024: Celebrating Bengaluru’s Next-Gen Design Innovators

JD Design Awards 2024 concluded its Bengaluru event with a captivating design extravaganza featuring three spectacular shows. Each collection showcased at the event carried inspiring narratives, blending imagination and innovation. Here, young designers boldly explored the future of design through the lens of speculative fiction. The event drew participation from influential figures across media, academia, premium brands, and the design industry. The event was inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp by Mrs Jyotsna Dalal, Mr Nealesh Dalal, Managing Trustee of JD Institute of Fashion Technology and Founder of JD School of Design; Ms Sandra Agnes D’Souza, Director, South – JD Institute of Fashion Technology; Mr Vinod Jain, Director of Arjunaa Jewellers; and Mr Vinesh Gupta, General Manager of The Den Hotel, Bengaluru. The organisers of JDDA 2024 extend their heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed sponsors for their invaluable support in making the event a grand success. The Den Bengaluru, Whitefield, served as an exceptional hospitality and venue partner, providing a stunning setting for the occasion. The event was powered by Arjunaa Jewellers. Lakme Academy, as the make-up partner, and TheStyle.World, as the content and styling partner, made remarkable contributions. A special thanks goes to the photography partner, Invalesco Creations, for beautifully capturing the essence of the event. The future of design transcends mere aesthetics; it involves crafting designs that narrate compelling stories. The design aspirants from JD School of Design and JD Institute of Fashion Technology showcased a comprehensive range of advanced designs, introducing groundbreaking ideas. With intricate detailing and technological integration, the show embodied innovation. The JD Design Awards aim to mobilise the youth and shape meaningful experiences, highlighting next-gen talent from Bangalore with a passion for leading the future of the fashion & jewellery industry. Mr. Nealesh Dalal states, “JD Design Awards is poised to disrupt design thinking and its disciplines. The youth of Bangalore have illustrated what it takes to be at the forefront of fashion and jewellery design. This is only the beginning. We see JD Design Awards as a platform that will elevate young designers globally, shaping the future of design itself.” On the occasion were Ms Pragati Adhikari, Counsellor, Art Therapist & Art Therapy Educator, White Minds, Bengaluru/ MIT-ADT University, Pune; Mr Lohit Singhal, Retail FOSSIL India Pvt Ltd; Ms Pooja Bagati, AVP Kids Category Landmark Group; Ms Roopali Rawat, Refab Creations Private Limited Brand: Fab Point; Ms Consuela Rusu, Creative Director; Prof Dr Venkateshwarlu, Hon Vice Chancellor Tumkur University, Tumkur; Ms Naida Zamzam, Senior Officer, Karnataka State Administrative Services, Registrar Tumkur University, Tumkur; Ms Jayanti Ballal, Founder Jayanti Ballal; Mr Padmaraj Keshri, Traceability Manager, Polo Ralph Lauren; and Mr Gurpreet Singh, Founder World of Brands. Walking down the ramp in the stunning jewellery collections by talented designers at the JD Institute of Fashion Technology & JD School of Design, where Bengaluru’s vibrant influencers are: Punam Chetry: Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Influencer, Fashion Designer & Stylist Namrata Kumari is Fashion, Travel, Luxury & Beauty Influencer Rimple Rai: Fashion, Luxury, Travel, F&B, & Lifestyle Influencer Shikha Bharti, Lifestyle & Travel Influencer Amit Pandya, Fashion Director, High Fashion Stylist & Ramp Walk Etiquette Coach Jyoti Bhujel a Fashion & Travel Influencer Navmita Jyoti: Luxury Lifestyle, F&B, Fashion & Beauty Influencer Dhanalakshmi HB, Fashion & Lifestyle Influencer Deena Pinto is a style enthusiast and lifestyle connoisseur. Raoul Rahul, Content Creator & Co-Founder, Reviewmedia Shrishti Jaiswal, global Influencer Witnessing the incredible talent on display and the excitement of presenting the awards created a truly cherished memory for all the young designers involved. Showcasing exceptional talent in fashion design were: JD Design Awards 2024: Celebrating Bengaluru’s Next-Gen Design Innovators Best Pret Wear Award (Women’s Category) was awarded to Abhay Sahu & Neelam Prajapath R for the collection Bastar Essence Revived Sustainable Fashion Champion Award was awarded to Priyanka P for the collection Heptad Aura Future Thinking Design Award was awarded to Kavya Prakash for the collection Eternix Fashion for Empowerment Award was awarded to Anshul Rander for the collection SarasWitty: The Knowledge Wars Ready-To-Wear Innovator Award was awarded to Saraah Umrethwala for the collection Decolonised and Ishwari Chongbang for the collection Ningwaphuma Yuma Fashion for Diversity and Inclusion Award was awarded to Theerthaa N & Rachna Arvind for the collection 50 Metres Style Innovator Award was awarded to Jeevapragathi J, Pooja L., & Saloni Nishad for the collection Express Verse Trailblazer Award was awarded to M Lisha for the collection Chronicles of Origami Fashion for Social Change Award was awarded to Shreni S & Kavya for the collection Heritage Glow Best Design Disruption Award was awarded to Yashaswini Reddy for the collection Memoria: The Rebirth Within Golden Needle Award was awarded to Anarghya Alias Oshin P Inamadar for the collection Kaizen The Alchemist Award was awarded to Roshni Gehlot & Nirosha C N for the collection Dvandva Sustainable Fashion Designer of the Year was awarded to Vinaa Varshini for the collection Auga Critic Award was awarded to Vismitha HM for the collection Grand Millennial and Pooja R for the collection Sakura Nexus The Thread of Innovation Award was awarded to CT Zohmangaihi for the collection Weave of Love The Tech Couture Award was awarded to Joshika K N & Sandhya B for the collection Cyber Futurism Best Avant-Garde Collection was awarded to Shiuli Banerjee & Shruthi H.S. for the collection Eco-Chic Decay The Metamorphosis Award was awarded to Shona R & Dharshini R for the collection Pixelated Paradoxes Fashion Forward Award was awarded to Disha Bohra for the collection Wired The Enigma Award was awarded to Madhuri NM & Hemalatha D for the collection Romantic Goth Glam Anti-Fashion Award was awarded to Harshitha A for the collection Kaló Sto Karkó, Good in Evil The Unconventional Couture Award was awarded to Goutham Kothari for the collection Karmic Aura The Surrealist Style Award was awarded to Gyamar Chach & Kushi P Jain for the collection Arcane Spectrum Infusing their visionary creativity into the realm of jewellery design were: Best Design was awarded to Jayashree S for the collection Sapthaloka

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