An Abhishek Dutta show is always a medley of experiences, and the recent showcase of his Summer Resort Collection 2023 on March 5 was one such. Planned as a sundowner experience on The Barge Company’s historically restored vessel, The Bengal Paddle, it was a presentation on the open-air deck of the sailing vessel. Starting from the Outram Ghat and cruising between the Vidyasagar Setu and Howrah Bridge, the models walked down the 102ft ramp set on the deck, with a view of the sunset sky on the backdrop. The audience sat on either side of the ramp or stood by the railing enjoying their sunset drink and the mellow evening breeze as models walked in the collection ‘Immerse’ — a storytelling on sustainability and creativity with contemporary fabrics and design detailing influenced by international trends.
“The collection is inspired by the beauty and devastation of our polluted waterbodies. As the world faces the immense problem of contaminated oceans, lakes, and rivers, we stand in awe of the natural wonder tainted by human waste and negligence. This collection reimagines the colours and textures of pollution through sleek and sustainable designs, reminding us of our duty to protect our planet,” said Abhishek.
Swimwear, cover-ups, dresses, jumpsuits and jackets comprise the collection in interesting pleated and sheer textures made of eco-friendly materials like recycled nylon and repurposed cotton and linen. “The collection embraces the hues of plastics, oil spills, and chemical waste — muted pastels and dark washes that reflect the sombre reality of our water crisis. The fabrics chosen offer a luxurious yet responsible alternative to traditional fabrics. The designs remain minimalistic yet bold, reflective of the clean lines and shapes of industrial structures that have contributed to the pollution of our Earth’s precious water sources. Each piece is designed to convey a message of hope, as well as a call to action. The swimsuits are sporty and chic, featuring asymmetrical cuts. The cover-ups are flowing and elegant, made from soft, breathable fabric that highlights the collection’s commitment to sustainability. The dresses are simple yet striking, made from lightweight fabrics that drape effortlessly over the body,” added Abhishek.
Feminine, smart and wearable, it did not miss the signature Abhishek Dutta touch with asymmetrical designs, cutout and leather detailing, a play of the recently launched logo-ed accessories and jacket looks. The soothing hues of blues, beige and white sprinkled with greys on sheer fabrics looked summery and complemented the show’s mood. Gelled-back glitter hair by make-up artist Bhaskar Biswas enhanced the look and feel of the looks. “We used eco-friendly materials and modern designs to shed light on a global crisis. We hope to inspire our customers to take action and to join us in our mission to save our planet’s precious water sources,” said the designer.
Snapshots:
Julia’s look was a set of summer comforts in a sheer bomber jacket paired with a ruffled and embroidered bikini and widelegged trousers.
Kutubuddin Sheikh channelled a relaxed vibe in a pleated overlap shirt designed with a one-side attached belt. It was paired with textured linen pants with stripes.
Ankita Singh walked in with a touch of elegance in a rippleembroidered toga cape teamed with an asymmetrical skirt and high-neck crop top.
Priyanka Das swayed the ramp in a cutaway pleated jacket dress with 3D leather kirigami details on the shoulder, accessorised with a custom belt.
The asymmetrical cotton lycra top worn by Swagata Das was teamed with a layered ripple-embroidered A-line skirt, styled with custom leather belts.