Day 2 of Lakmē Fashion Week 2026 saw Pawan Sachdeva explore new ground with Trailblazer – bringing a nuanced take on denim to the forefront through a lens that felt both rooted and progressive. Drawing from the spirit of Swadeshi, the collection brought together the raw authenticity of khadi with the ease of contemporary silhouettes, setting a compelling narrative in motion.
With exquisitely crafted pieces that transitioned seamlessly across settings – a versatility seldom achieved – while remaining anchored in their origins, the Trailblazer collection reflected a modern approach to dressing that celebrated an instinctive ease.
We took the conversation beyond the runway to decode the vision, craft, and philosophy that shaped it all, with the mastermind himself.
FL: With “Trailblazer,” you return to denim. What specific direction were you looking to explore within the fabric this season?
PS: With “Trailblazer,” the direction was to reimagine denim as a more elevated and versatile fabric. My focus was on refined tailoring, innovative textures, and contemporary silhouettes – balancing its rugged character with a sense of sophistication to create pieces that move effortlessly across contexts and occasions.
FL: From washes to brushstroke treatments, the finishes feel considered and varied – what went into shaping this surface language?
PS: The surface language emerged from a deliberate interplay of technique and intuition. For me, it was about exploring nuanced washes and expressive brushstroke treatments, with each finish thoughtfully developed to accentuate the fabric’s inherent texture. The result is a layered, tactile narrative – where raw authenticity meets a refined, almost painterly sophistication.
FL: There’s a clear tension between oversized, anti-fit silhouettes and sharper tailoring. What informed this interplay?
PS: The interplay was driven by a desire to balance ease with precision. Oversized, anti-fit silhouettes bring a sense of freedom and nonchalance, while sharper tailoring introduces structure and intent. Together, they create a dynamic tension – reflecting how I see modern individuals move between relaxed self-expression and refined sophistication.
FL: Inclusivity sits at the core of the collection – how did that translate into decisions around fit and construction?
PS: Inclusivity informed every decision around fit and construction. My approach moves away from rigid sizing toward relaxed, adaptive silhouettes, flexible structures, and thoughtful detailing. The aim is to create garments that accommodate diverse body types and personal styles – ensuring comfort, ease, and a sense of individuality without compromising on form or finish.
FL: Designed to move from everyday wear to resort and occasion dressing, what allows the pieces in this collection to adapt so fluidly?
PS: The adaptability lies in the balance of fabric, form, and finish. Khadi denim brings a natural ease, while refined tailoring and versatile silhouettes allow the pieces to be styled up or down. Subtle detailing and considered construction ensure they transition effortlessly from everyday wear to resort and occasion settings.