Archive for the ‘Ultra Kochi Fashion Week’ Category

Fashion without function?

It is that time again when the fashion-conscious Kochiites can see unconventional outfits with funky shades and designs enhancing the mystique of the female form and the brawny male models assuming stoic expressions as they walk the ramp. Yes, the Kingfisher Ultra Kochi Fashion Week is back for its second edition allowing the bigwigs of the fashion fraternity to showcase their exquisite collections.

The fashion week introduced to the city last year was expected to change the outlook of the average Malayali towards fashion. Kochi model Nibu Joseph says, “A drastic change is visible in the second edition of the Kochi Fashion Week. As you can see, international designers have stepped in this time and good crowds have come in despite the IPL fever and Easter celebrations. This in itself shows the change in the mindset of people and reflects the interest they have in becoming a part of this extravaganza.”

There are no two arguments about the fact that Kerala has a long way to go when it comes to fashion but many believe that the potential that the State has is huge. Miss Kerala 2011 Elizabeth Thadikaran remarks, “The fashion scene here is slowly changing. It is indeed a huge initiative to organise an international fashion week in Kochi. People will get to know the changes happening in the fashion world and this will help alter the conservative mindset of people. With regular events, people will also get used to this culture.”

Not all experts agree, however, that the fashion week has any significant impact. For instance, casting director and stylist Lukman is of the opinion that public awareness is limited in Kerala. “People are just coming in and plainly enjoying the show while there are no potential buyers. If there are no buyers, what is the purpose of hosting a fashion week?” asks Lukman.