Adarsh Gill's collection unveiled at the Atelier in Delhi

Check out the shopping malls in Delhi. The accent is clearly summer. For compulsive shoppers, the holiday season is the best time of the year. Going by the spate of fashion shows and glitzy seasonal launches, seems like it's ditto for Indian designers. Last week, the capital witnessed the unveiling of at least three summer lines. The champagne flowed and so did the fabrics. Aparna Chandra's Spring-Summer 2002 collection, presented at Delhi's Devils in South Extension, was based on the soft, romantic theme with looks and colours to match. So there were lots of blues, beiges, whites and reds ruling the ramp. But the fabric was undoubtedly cotton.

Chandra's line spells romance

Those who missed the fashion show can take a look at Chandra's new line at White, Santushti Complex, Delhi. Call: (011) 688-2802. There was new talent too. Like fashion grad Preeti Meshram Kapoor who started out at Ogaan. She unleashed a range of khadis in the pret category. Yet another designer who unfurled her inspirational look this summer was Adarsh Gill, who told the story of spring through her line. Flowers, fuchsia and fluid silhouettes dominated. Sunshine yellows, vermilion and varying shades of white emerged through detailing in thread, crystal, diamonds and appliqué work. The look was studied casual: capris, linen pants, and short tunics with long scarves. Less is more. Call: (011) 465-6530.

SHELF LIFE

On the Racks: That Ebony, one of India's leading retail names, has an in-house brand called Ebony ETC is old hat. But the brand now includes a new summer collection of casual kurtas, T-shirts, formals and evening wear at its flagship store in South Extension, Delhi. The launch was preceded by a show last week (right). The ETC label also spans menswear and accessories. Call: (011) 608-1417.

Cards to Crayons: So far, Archies only sold greeting cards. Now, it will also sell "kids' stationery" as part of its new venture. The products will include a whole new range of desk-products: like "funky erasers, naughty pencils, playful rulers, and cartoony pencil boxes". Great gift ideas too.

Mock Wedding: We've heard of dream weddings. Now hear of dream launches. To launch their new "Swyamvar Collection", Delhi store Study By Janak got Indian models Mark Robinson and Waluscha d' Souza to stage a mock wedding to unveil the new line. For bridalwear, try N-9, South Ex-I, Delhi. Call: (011) 463-1504.

BAZAAR news

Design Platform: Come May, Delhi's Pragati Maidan will witness the setting up of a 4,500 sq ft design showcase sponsored by National Institute of Design and itpo. Called Showcase Design, it will present a mix of classic and sponsored exhibits, besides award-winning designs from young designers. Look out for lectures too.

Leather Fare: The just-concluded International Leather Fair 2002 at Delhi's Pragati Maidan saw over 173 participants from abroad. Leather garments, shoes and accessories were up for sale. Despite peta's (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals) best efforts,there were still takers.

TREND SPEAK

The glitter of brightly-cut crystals, sparkling enamels and polishes on metal heralds a new trend in jewellery design. Understated glory and timeless chic are in.

--Compiled by Methil Renuka