Spread over 2,200sq ft and divided into three sections — couture, pret and Western Wear — designer Deepika Agarwal opened the door to her flagship fashion store, Deepika Agarwal. Tucked away in a quiet south Calcutta neighbourhood, at Heysham Road, the fashion store is housed within a residential building which is a perfect example of an adaptive reuse project. As Calcutta bears the imprints of multiple eras, the designer wanted to retain the integrity of the building’s architecture yet create a new mood. The city’s rich culture spanning many centuries inspired the creation of a cohesive mix of the traditional and the contemporary.
Exposing the original inner brickwork at the lehenga section creates an earthy aesthetic without the extensive use of new materials. This section features lehengas in pretty pastel shades with beautiful embroideries perfect for any upcoming occasion
The collection of the flagship store makes the bride’s journey a dilemma-free one as one would have the option to choose from chic dhoti skirts with embellished blouses to flowing capes to shararas, anarkalis, cocktail saris, drapes, the brand’s signature lehenga sarees that come with attached dupattas, all under one roof. The brand has also curated a whole new line of Westernwear which features some ace designers such as LoveShafali, Naina Seth, I Am Trouble and Coeur by Ankita Khurana. Designer Deepika Agarwal generally works with a lot of flowing fabrics, and pastel shades to the glamourous cascading silhouettes and drapes. Careful detailing of katdana, French knots, sequins, threadwork and mirrors are details that would make a fairy tale wedding outfit or for any other occasion. Under the Western category is a mixed bag of all coord sets sequins, bling jackets with trails, satin dresses and the new edgy pants with folds.
The hand-painted wall of the vestibule area is done in a Chinoiserie style reflecting the opulence of the centuries past. The contemporary aspect is lent by the choice of material which includes Italian marble and wooden parquet flooring. The choice of white motifs on the turquoise wall is traditional giving a sense of royalty. The gothic arches of the gateways of the three sections are inspired by Calcutta's colonial history
So, this festive season, drop in the store for the new collection to dress your best and sparkle through the season. Also, they have a wide range of lehengas and pre-draped saris targeting the upcoming wedding season for the brides and their bridesmaids.
A strategic use of colours, graphics, surfaces, lighting effects and decorative fixtures has enabled the complete facelift of this existing space. The golden-hanging lotus fixture adds the desi touch to the Indo-Western section. We loved this co-ord set with shells, floral embroidery and print making it a perfect Diwali wear. Love boho-chic, grab this one!
Update your wardrobe with the newest Western fashion trends by designers like LoveShafali, Naina Seth, I Am Trouble and Coeur by Ankita Khurana, featured in the Western section highlighted with the dramatic use of lighting.
What: Deepika Agarwal
Where: 5A Heysham Road
Timings: Monday- Saturday: 11 am- 7.30 pm. Appointments on Sunday