Bangalore (Karnataka) [India]: The Indian Institute of Fashion Technology celebrated its 20th edition of Fashionite 2023, an annual fashion extravaganza that featured the work of 78 talented designers who unveiled a stunning collection of 131 creative ensembles. These captivating designs graced the runway, showcased by 20 striking models on a specially crafted catwalk at the Chowdiah Memorial Hall in Bangalore. The event, held on the evening of October 4, 2023, commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.
Distinguished guests in attendance included luminaries from national-level universities, fashion mentors, industry leaders, employers, and members of Rotary clubs. Notable figures like Prof. Smt. B.K. Thulasimala, Vice Chancellor of Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women's University; Sri C.N. Sridhara, Commissioner for Textiles Development & Director Handlooms & Textiles, Govt. of Karnataka; Sri. Lingaraju, Joint Director for Textile Policy & Cauveri Handlooms, Govt. of Karnataka; Sri Prabhath Singh, Executive Director of Gokaldas Exports; and Dr. Arun Kumar H.R, Managing Director of Karnataka Trade Promotion Organisation, Govt. of Karnataka graced the occasion.
Mrs. Manjula Harish, Principal of IIFT, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, esteemed attendees, proud parents, dedicated educators, students, and representatives of the media.
As the models strutted down the runway, the audience erupted with thunderous applause and excitement, showering each designer with appreciation. The designers themselves wore expressions of pride, confidence, and anticipation as they presented their creations to a crowd exceeding a thousand, comprising friends, family, and industry delegates.
A jury of experts meticulously selected 15 finalists from the pool of 78 participants, evaluating criteria such as adherence to the theme, fabric choices, color aesthetics, innovation in silhouettes, presentation with accessories, attention to detail in ornamentation, styling, and originality.
The themes explored during the show ranged from Futuristic Fashion and Handloom to Mythical, Zero Waste, Paddy Fields, Tribal Art, and more. The colors and fabrics used conveyed various messages to the audience, showcasing a blend of wearable and non-wearable materials. The designs incorporated a wide array of fabrics, including Pure Silk with traditional Indian motifs, Jute Rice Bags, Organza, Satin Cotton, Glaze Cotton, Linen, Velvet, Chiffon, Georgette, Brocades, Netted fabrics, and many other trendy textiles. Some garments featured elaborate headgear, handcrafted jewelry, bags, and intricate embellishments like Zardozi work, Macrame, Aari work, traditional Indian embroideries, hand painting, and printing, highlighting the fusion of materials from different regions.
Each design told a unique story, captivating the hearts and souls of the audience through visual storytelling.
The magic of these stories left the audience spellbound as all 78 designers unveiled their innovative fashion collections one after another.
At the conclusion of the event, all designers were honored with prestigious IIFT mementos and certificates as a token of recognition for their dedication and hard work.
Awards were presented in several categories, including the IIFT Best Designer of the Year 2023, Best Designer Award in B.Sc Fashion & Apparel Design, 'BEST DESIGNER-NON TEXTILE,' Best Designer Award in Fashion Designing and Boutique Management, Best Collection, and Best Theme.
The audience was left mesmerized and delighted by the extraordinary creativity displayed by their loved ones. The event promised a regal and joyful experience, serving as a visual treat for the eyes and featuring international and national celebrities from various segments of the fashion industry.
The show concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Ms. Seema Savio, Head of Department and HR at IIFT. For more information, please visit www.iiftbangalore.com.