Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI brings craftsmanship, and creativity to the forefront

Before the new season is in session, we're looking at the style mavens to show us the way. Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI has officially kicked off this October at The Grand, New Delhi, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration of style, craftsmanship, and creativity. As one of India’s most anticipated fashion events, this season promises an exciting lineup of designers. Over the next few days, the runways will come alive with trend-setting collections, sustainable innovations, and show-stopping celebrity moments; offering a glimpse into the future of Indian fashion. Here's a look at what transpired on the first and second day of Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI.

The opening show of the event was a joint showcase between multiple designers, held at The Kunj. What makes the location even more fitting as a fashion venue is that the new retail-cultural complex in Vasant Kunj is India’s first permanent mall dedicated exclusively to handicrafts, handlooms, and artisan-made goods. The show stood out as a true ode to Indian handloom and craftsmanship, redefining what “Made in India” represents on the global stage. Each piece reflected the mastery of traditional techniques blended seamlessly with contemporary design, showcasing the richness of indigenous textiles in a modern context. 

Akaaro’s showcase of the Starlight collection at Lakmé Fashion Week brought a sense of quiet yet vibrant sophistication to the runway; primarily by blending contemporary design and bright pops of colour with mindful craftsmanship. Known for its fresh spirit aesthetic and focus on textile innovation, the collection reflected a refined balance of structure and statement. 

(Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor's rich Indian homage in a Kashmir-inspired resham saree)

Anavila’s Sarmast collection for the Festive ’25 season was nothing less than a poetic celebration; dreamy, joyful, and glowing with subtle charm. Embracing soft tones like cerulean blues and gentle neutrals, weaves with handcrafted details shone without overpowering.The collection married her signature handwoven textiles with modern silhouettes designed for festive wardrobes that want to feel both, special and effortless.

The Edit’s showcase at Lakmé Fashion Week brought a refreshing, contemporary energy to the runway. The collection balanced on-trend silhouettes with wearable elegance, offering a cohesive visual narrative without overwhelming theatricality. 

Aseem Kapoor’s collection Akaar at Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI drew inspiration from the ancient Nazca Lines of Peru, translating their mystical geometry into intricate textile art. Featuring motifs like spirals, hands, and hummingbirds, the collection celebrated sacred symbolism through contemporary design. The show opened with actor Anasuya Sengupta, who set the tone in a striking one-shoulder embellished ensemble.

The NIF Global show, The Runway, once again drew attention as one of the most anticipated showcases of the season. Creative student designers presented five collections under the theme “Reimagined Heirlooms", exploring personal and cultural legacies through fashion. Drawing inspiration from cherished family artifacts, traditional crafts, textiles, and embellishments, the young talents transformed inherited traditions into contemporary design expressions.

Enamor, in collaboration with Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika, unveiled a luxurious new lingerie collection at Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI. Inspired by celestial elements and cosmic energy, the line blended style, opulence, and empowerment through rich hues and intricate craftsmanship. The showcase redefined lingerie as an expression of confidence and individuality, merging high fashion with bold self-expression.

(Also Read: Anamika Khanna on Indian representation and AK|OK's London Fashion Week debut)