Tahiliani (center); models in some of his earlier creations

It has been a month of twists and twirls, ups and downs, on the country's fashion runways. Ace designer Tarun Tahiliani has just launched his prêt line called Zero Gravity. For the record, he has always been associated with high couture. This time, his range encompasses ready-to-wear, linen, saris and chiffons in bright colours, from Rs 1,900 to Rs 14,000. Word is the racks were emptied out in no time at the line's launch in June at Ensemble, Crossroads, Mumbai.

The students of the National Institute of Fashion Design-please don't call it nifd, pleads the institute's publicist-had their annual showing called Sukriti 2000 at Delhi's Ashok Hotel last week. Delhi's fashion-hungry public can't seem to have enough of such shows, good or bad. There were fits, frills, tacky colours, and 21 sequences in all, with themes such as vintage and shadow and fabrics like brocade and silk. There were jury awards too. Those who missed it can catch up with the institute's fashion sense on FTV (Fashion TV).

Shoppers, Stop Here: Lifestyle major Shoppers' Stop has some new shopping ideas lined up: from capris and tees to mugs and rugs. Worth checking out is bed linen that starts from Rs 595 onwards. Also the contests. Call: (022) 624-3793.

True Colours: There's a new outfit called Hues in Delhi's upscale GK-I calling itself an "exclusive high fashion store" selling high heels and high fashion. There's apparel, shoes and accessories for both sexes. The launch was preceded by a party celebrating "the spirit of youth". Only for the young. At E-26, Greater Kailash-I, Delhi. Call: (011) 652-7631.

Serial Silver: Episode, the silverware outfit from the House of Whorras, now offers international-standard Indian ware at its new showroom in Bangalore fashion store Ffolio. The silverware includes the Manna Studio Line, Viva Leather Accessories, and Arome Candles. At N-10, GK-I, Delhi. Call: (011) 214-8582.

TREND SPEAK

"In hair styles, the wispy look is in. Give your mop more texture, more body, more movement and even streak it red, copper, burgundy and blonde."
Blossom Kochchar, Delhi-based hair stylist

BAZAAR NEWS

Body Art: Street styles are in. Complementing the peasant look is body art. Tattoos have always been around, but metal body art is gaining currency. Recently, Delhi boutique Pierce Metal organised a Metal Body Art Festival that had the capital's adventurous lot queueing up for permanent tattoos and metal body buttons. Call: (011) 6146257.

Fashion Fest: The Fashion Design Council of India, the country's apex fashion body, has announced the Lakme India Fashion Week 2002, from August 2-3. Lots of hot designers and models will walk the ramp. Watch this space for more on when, where, what.

-Compiled by Methil Renuka