Fashion: Vintage glamour from Pria Kataaria Puri

It's that time of the year again when India's premier designers pull out all the stops and present their spring-summer collections. With the Lakme Fashion Week 2010 just about a week away (March 5-9, in Mumbai), preparations are revving up for the first major event in the fashion calendar for 2010.

Here we take a peek at what designer Pria Kataaria Puri has in store.

The 'Maharani Gayatri Devi: The Jewel of India' collection draws inspiration from and attempts to capture the essence of the Maharani -- her grace, her independence and her style.

Pearl whites, yellow topaz, smoky topaz, shades of turquoise, shades of coral and jade to rich emerald shades have been used through the collection with embroidery in crystals, semi precious stones, kundan and long strings of pearls to create a glamorous yet elegant look.

The collection boasts a variety of Indo-Western styles for every occasion ranging from the classic sari, anarkalis, shararas, lounge gowns, formal gowns, kaftans, tunics, jackets and dresses with a focus on empire waists and arched shoulder sleeves, pleating and construction.

The dress lengths vary from thigh to knee-length.

My collection is dedicated to the Maharani's iconic stature -- the maharani with flawlessly chiselled features, pretty as a picture with a reflective, distant look in her eyes," says the designer.

French chiffon where Maharani's favourite and Puri has sourced the French chiffon and satin silk from France and had them printed in Mumbai. Tulle, silk georgettes, silk cotton jersey, Egyptian cotton are some of the other fabrics seen in the collection.

Pria Kataaria Puri will be showing on opening day of LFW (March 5) at 7 pm.