The
Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale, held today in the
capital left the spectators cheering and in a
standing ovation by presenting an inspiring
story of transformation from gloom to glory on
the ramp with JJ Valaya’s ‘Kingdom of Love’. The
theme expressed the journey with exquisite
pieces crafted to perfection by the acclaimed
designer complete with a dramatic rendition,
meticulous presentation and delightfully
attentive detailing that have always been a
signature of the Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale.
Firmly entrenched in his throne, JJ Valaya dons
the mantle of the kingdom’s maverick maharaja
and claims that "He was thinking about how
fickle mortals today are, how easily they
collapse under pressure and how decreased they
are in their capacity to fight back for what is
rightfully theirs".
The
signature Valaya tailored jackets, sensual
jodhpurs and crisp tops worn with detailed
skirts crafted out of the finest of fabrics with
stunning prints and ornamentation made for a
collection of womenswear and menswear that
celebrates optimism and energy. If one had to
brainstorm the quintessential formula for Valaya-
“the nomadic rockstar royal”, then, on the
pragmatic side, this richly layered collection
will separate out into dozens of delicious
separates and on the other, there is a whole
series of exceptional masterpieces.
The
Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale Autumn/Winter 2009
collection unfolded through a brilliantly
scripted and masterfully presented three Act
drama. An enchanting collection all in black
sashayed the ramp in Act I as the Wills
Lifestyle Grand Finale unveiled amidst a setting
that cued gloom, despair and imminent
destruction. Act II saw those splashes of
colours and lighter tones as, riding on optimism
and will, the veil of darkness lifted to see
some light and hope. Act III followed and all
was gold, glitter, glamour and celebration. The
clothes gleamed in opulence, the set was
magically transformed into a rich, bright stage
befitting the royals and the erstwhile softer
music climaxed to an exhilarating festive high.
A 3D projection throughout the show created an
ethereal effect that enthralled the audiences.
It was a truly splendid sight and the applause
went on for indeed long!
Commenting on the grand finale, Atul Chand,
Divisional Chief Executive - ITC’s Lifestyle
Retailing Business Divison, said, “Wills
Lifestyle Grand Finale has always set new
benchmarks in creativity and has been a great
mix of fashion and entertainment. JJ Valaya is
India’s undisputable czar of couture and each
ensemble today on the ramp was dazzling with his
creative genius. The result has been sheer
magnificence.”
He added, “Our partnership with Valaya
extends beyond the ramp. Today’s grand finale
collection will further enrich the Wills
Lifestyle India Fashion Week line, Wills
Signature, and Valaya’s collection will be
retailed at our stores across the country”.
Speaking on the occasion, JJ Valaya said,
“With this collection I would like to put across
the sentiment that I personally believe in…that
life is all about positivity and progression.
Having said that I have always believed that
words can never quite replace the feeling of
watching a brilliant execution of an inspiration
unfurl before ones very eyes”
