National, 15th March 2024: Anamika Khanna, the creative force behind AK-OK mesmerized fashion enthusiasts at Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI. In collaboration with Ajio Luxe, she presented a captivating showcase of her Spring Summer '24 collection, blending tribal motifs with contemporary urban wear.
Drawing inspiration from the adventures of a nomadic biker hailing from Orissa's Bonda Tribe, the collection stole the spotlight, captivating attendees with its distinctive fusion of heritage and modernity. Stemming from an informal chat over tea with a dear friend, each piece blossomed into a breathtaking ensemble, effortlessly blending tribal elements with contemporary aesthetics.
Renowned for celebrating India's vibrant culture through intricate weaves and motifs, Anamika Khanna elevated her signature approach by infusing Bonda colors, motifs, and embroideries into ensembles suited for urban settings. The collection featured a diverse range of garments, from jackets to slouchy pants, drapes, and kaftans, each reimagining staple pieces into bold statements of style.
Denim formed the foundation of the collection, adorned with a palette ranging from quintessential whites, ivory, and blacks to prints and vibrant hues of red and pink. Anamika Khanna ingeniously combined thick threadwork embroidery, reminiscent of biker studs, to reinvent the concept of urban wear, infusing each garment with rich detail and character.
Reflecting on her collection, Anamika Khanna shared, "India is home to thousands of native tribes, each with a distinct identity expressed through their clothing and way of life. The Bonda community of Orissa, renowned for their fearless spirit, inspired this collection with their signature rich beaded clothing adorned with neon beads, shells, and brass neck rings, complemented by fabrics woven at home. In an era fixated on erasing diversity, it's essential to celebrate and preserve the cultural heritage of tribes like the Bonda, ensuring their legacy thrives for generations to come."
The young starlet and emerging fashion icon, Shanaya Kapoor, mesmerized audiences with a distinctive AK-OK creation, blending Indian heritage with global influences. Her high-fashion ensemble featured a breathtaking white shirt dress adorned with intricate golden embellishments, paired with a striking bra top featuring delicate embroidered motifs. Bringing the look to life on the runway, this showstopping creation was complemented by an array of elegant gold jewelry adorning her waist and neck. The ensemble was flawlessly rounded off with chic high boots, showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
The set was a vibrant tribute to the colorful essence of the Bonda tribe, mirroring the spirit of contemporary women through modern fashion. Inspired by communal gatherings, typical of the Bonda tribe, models dressed in key looks were seated together, creating human installations reminiscent of the tribe's unity and strength. The ambiance was further elevated by live music, featuring popular DJ Shri and talented percussionist Jonqui, whose performances added an extra layer of energy and rhythm to the event.
The event took place at Jio World Convention Centre, situated at Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai. Jio World Convention Centre is one of India's foremost convention & exhibition centers and a leading destination for conventions, exhibitions, and social events spanning over 1 million sq. ft. Since its launch in Mar 2022, the Centre has hosted over 1300+ events and experienced a footfall over 2.5 million.