Fashion's Trendsetters

KATHMANDU, Sept 1: As the rare blue moon rose above the Kathmandu night sky on August 31, another fashion event in the city took place, giving us the glimpse of local designers trying to showcase something ‘different’. Trendsetters, was a mixed bag of styles, designs and colors and a well dressed audience.

The Regal Ball Room at the Hotel Yak & Yeti, Durbar Marg, was the venue for this fashion event organized by Vootoo Entertainment along with House of Alternative Apparel (HAA).[break]

Touted as one of summer’s hottest fashion events, it was graced by seven designers and attended by close to 600 guests.

Sadichha Shrestha wearing Nuzhat Qazi

Shreya Sotang’s charged up performance kick started the event with all designers taking to the stage. Sotang’s rendition of Nima Rumba’s “Miss Cat Walk” was a surprise, as it showcased a different side to the demur singer.

Choreographed by Sijan Bhattachan, the stream of 37 models, including show-stoppers in the form of actress Jharna Bajracharya, Priyanka Karki and actor Karma Shakya, walked the ramp and the viewers were offered a wide array of style.

Tenzin Tseten Bhutia’s collection Keti was a refreshing update to his fashion portfolio, while Astik Sherchan’s understated elegance reinforced the notion – less is sometimes more.

“Such shows are great learning experience as we get to interact with some of the best designers around, and that too under one roof,” gushed a relived Bhutia, after the event.

Bina Ghale’s hand painted wedges, fitted jacked added a splash of color, against Subexya Bhadel’s gothic chic, which left the onlookers mesmerized with its play of different shades of black.

Tenzin Tseten Bhutia with Jharana

HAA’s take on functional chic should definitely see them go beyond the confines of runway and prospering in the retails.

Nuzhat Qazi’s impromptu design on the ramp drew quizzical brow from spectators. The designer herself appeared on the stage draping a model, while her fashion line from House of Fashion was being showcased.

The event also saw the launch of a new denim collection, “Now”, which is a collaborative effort between Astik Sherchan and HAA.

“It was a resounding success, and the event went smoothly,” sighed Manish Pandit of HAA, “Our aim is to set new standards, and hopefully this is the start to a new trend.”