Fashion: A tribute to the nautch girl

Designer Vijay Balhara showcased the latest line, 'Borala Nautch', from his label VJB on the third day of Lakme Fashion Week.

Inspired by the dancing girls of the Mughal empire, 'borala' refers to the ornamental headgear worn by North Indian village women, while 'nautch' (derived from 'naach') refers to the dancing style of young girls at ancient royal Indian courts. Take a look.

Follow the Rediff Team at Lakme Fashion Week here

Carol Gracias opens the show in a sophisticated pair of pleated white pants and long-sleeved blouse. A tiny bolero adds to the overall appeal.

Ending in harem pants and showing off bits of glimmer, this brown one-piece is a definite hit.

Ethnic-style pants go beautifully with a matching kurta and ochre sleeveless jacket.

Another ochre blouse, this one with puffed sleeves and becoming ruffles, sets off a pair of printed shorts.

We're not too sure of this one -- the silhouette is great, but those giant polka dots, exaggerated scarf and headgear seem to give it a clownsuit appearance!

Balhara scores a hit with this shimmering-sleeved cocktail -- those ruffles gently layering towards the hemline are sheer poetry!

Diandra Soares goes the bold route in a plunging neckline and futuristic shoulder pads; the skinshow is balanced by the twirly skirt and long sleeves.

Carol models the showstopper -- another swirling skirt with a one-shouldered puffball-sleeved blouse.

Balhara looks very much in style himself in a jacket and crops, as he leads Carol down the ramp.