Manish Malhotra reinvents the design wheel with “Diffuse” at LFW’22

When it comes to how we dress, there is an inextricable link between the choices we make for fashion and with what is going on with the world at the time. For Bollywood’s favourite couturier Manish Malhotra staying up to date with trends and intermingling them to create fine silhouettes never seems to be a problem — and that holds especially true with his new collection “Diffuse” showcased at FDCI X Lakmé Fashion Week 2022.

The collection's colour palette revolves around a galaxy of blacks, reds, pinks, purples, blues, greys, and gradients. The runway was set ablaze with a play of majorly colourful prints and textures, creating almost a psychedelic mood board.

Edited excerpts from our conversation with Manish follow...
 

Your latest collection “Diffuse” was intrigued by an instant flash of prints, glamour and luxe aesthetic. What was the inspiration behind it?

I had created some limited edition abstract prints a while back on stylised silhouettes in blocks of vibrant colours, mainly for the younger clientele. They loved it, so I thought, let's make an entire line on it catering to the youth demographic. Furthermore, in an ever-changing algorithm of trends, I was focused on bridging the gap from luxury with a line to cater to the screen-scrolling cohorts. Therefore, the line is consciously priced too.

From being a costume designer to launching a label to becoming an entrepreneur across cosmetics, jewellery and home décor; what inspires you to keep innovating?

I love what I do — ventures and collaborations are a part of the journey. It never hurts to try something new. With the required effort and my long-standing experience, I can transition from one segment to another while maintaining my signature aesthetics. I view fashion as an integrated look that encompasses design, styling, and makeup. My love for cinema has graciously enabled me to create looks on-screen while mounting a whole brand simultaneously. At the moment I'm fulfilling my childhood dream of sitting on a director's chair, bringing the magic of fashion, films and fun to life.

How does it feel to be back to a complete physical format at fashion week, this year?

Ah, it's always great to be back on the runway, and I'm so pumped, stoked, and energised. Though running a digital show behind the screens was a whole new experience during the pandemic. But, since everything is now stabilised, a runway show had an entirely different vibe.

Your collections’ patterns and colours run high on the spirit of summer, yet seasons out all year round, and the formal silhouettes join forces with youth-centric celebrations. How do you plan on remaining relevant in a space that is heavily influenced by trends?

I have never been one to follow trends, I have always done what I have felt inspired to do at that time. However, I have always believed in changing with the times. One must observe the world around themselves and see how it’s changing rapidly. It is important to constantly connect with your audience and give them what they are looking for. That’s how Diffuse was born. 

Diffuse came with a lot of planning, research and observing the shift in the market’s demand. The brand's alter ego was manifested and amplified in every design. We also kept in mind that the new segment had to be more accessible and approachable in wearability and pricing to keep up with the young demographic.

With fashion weeks playing an eminent role in creating trends, what according to you is the future of fashion? Does it befit the ever-changing consumer-scape or does it really channel the language of fashion that remains perennial?

The future, like the present and past, will have fluctuating phases. The most beautiful part about the fashion industry is that it's super dynamic, and there's a vast scope to create and innovate. Yes, one can be inspired by trends; but what matters is how you make your world in the ever-changing algorithm of trends. I love change; it's always exciting to build something new every day while making sure you never diverge from your aesthetics. 

Image courtesy Neil Chakraborty.