As Indian couture continues to redefine itself on the global stage, Aseem Kapoor reminds us of the beauty of staying rooted while evolving. On Day 1 of Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, Kapoor transported audiences to the bohemian landscapes of Peru with his collection Akaar – a visual symphony that gave a refreshing new edge to maximalism.
When asked about the inspiration behind his collection, Kapoor shared, “It draws inspiration from the Nazca geoglyphs – spirals, hummingbirds, hands, and cosmic pathways.” What unfolded on the runway was a hypnotic confluence of mythology, geometry, and couture, merging ancient mysticism with modern design sensibilities.
Renowned for his ability to seamlessly balance art and textiles, Kapoor’s signature mastery was evident in every silhouette through intricate layering and textures. Reflecting on how Akaar differs from his previous work, the designer added, “We’ve introduced various new silhouettes, perfect for powerful and structured looks. We have used a lot of bold Nazca Lines-inspired motifs on sheer fabrics and heavy embroideries, giving the garment a much richer look.”
The showcase came alive with an eclectic mélange of earthy hues, sun-baked tones, and unexpected contrasts, each ensemble breathing life into the seamless dialogue between ancient scapes and modern silhouettes.
Each look was a masterpiece in its own right, but Kapoor’s personal favourite was the opening look worn by Anasuya Sengupta – an off-shoulder, flowy yet structured piece paired with a pleated mermaid skirt, accentuated with heavily embroidered and ornamented motifs.
With Akaar, Kapoor reimagines sacred symbols through artful embroideries, nomadic prints, and sculpted forms, creating a collection that feels both timeless and new-age – a mesmerising dialogue between heritage and contemporary couture.
(All Image Courtesy: Aseem Kapoor)