Visit: Lakme India Fashion Week: A Sify Special

New Delhi: Fashion shows have almost become like a family event, so designers can't go superwild, says leading fashion designer Rina Dhaka whose "Fall collection" set the ball rolling at the Lakme India Fashion Week.

"The objective of fashion is not to stir emotions and create scandal," said the trendy designer known for her bold and off-beat outfits.

India's biggest fashion extravaganza got off to a shimmering start yesterday with Rajesh Pratap Singh, Payal Jain and Niki Mahajan, Ashish and Smita Soni also showcasing their collections.

Dhaka's "Fall collection" was subtle and dominated by hues in ivory, beige, honey and brown, creating the effect of light shining through sands. The sheer, embossed fabric was embedded with metallic prints that shimmered and shone as they caught the light.

Dhaka said she was targetting the fall holiday line for the overseas market especially London, Italy and New York where her clothes are well-received as well as the hi-end fashion market in India.

She also said she was keen to sell in the West Asia but would have to adapt the length, keeping in mind the local sensitivities.

"My clothes are already well-received in Dubai," Dhaka said in India designers worked under lot of limitations.

There was hardly any finincial backup and they had to perform the roles of administrator, labour, marketing and financial manager.

"We need a system where buyers and designers can meet at the same platform and conduct business. LIFW provides such a platform to us."

Dhaka's collection focussed on slinky body fits achieved through stretch knit skirts that skimmed the waist, ending in gathers and flounces.

"I tried to give a new way to look at the past, recreating the romantic and glamorous look of the 40s and 50s," said the designer.