up to the dominant use of velvet and net fabrics in sarees, lehengas, salwar suits, and even tunics, all available off the rack, Bollywood's favorite fashion designer Manish Malhotra in his show “Destination Wedding” at the India Couture Week this month used a lot of net, velvet and chiffon. The collection had an apparent emphasis on texture and less of embroidery. Stealing the show was the designer's showstopper, actress Kareena Kapoor, who was dressed in a pale pink velvet lehenga with silver leaf embroidery; and a silver sleeveless top bedecked with multiple pearl strings in the front, strutting down the ramp along with actor Saif Ali Khan. The duo, as well as the bridal collection, was an instant hit. Earlier in the fashion week, designer Pallavi Jaikishan's show featured a range of lehengas with pre-draped dupattas in fabrics of net, satin and velvet. Net sarees have virtually never been out of fashion and now net sleeves in flared tunics, kurtis, as well as ethnic wear, are in vogue. Velvet, due to their rigid and voluminous look can play a dampener if you desire a slim look. However, with stylish cuts and minimal use of the fabric, you can still get your act right. For example, a velvet patch in the bodice (upper part) of an anarkali dress gives it a rich and luxuriant look without making it bulky.
