It was a magical evening at the Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale today, as the ramp came alive with Manish Arora's Circus collection, complete with clown pants, voluminous jackets and ruffled skirts. The atmosphere during the Grand Finale was one of frenzied excitement as Manish Arora interpreted the drama of a circus in his own signature style.

The Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale Spring/Summer 2009 collection saw the ramp bedecked with iconic prints reminiscent of a classic animated and lively circus. A 3D projection of a performing juggler and clown, dressed in Manish Arora costumes, was hovered through the show area/arena creating an ethereal effect that mesmerized the audiences. It was a truly spectacular sight! Playing alongside was live music by Bollywood Brass who had flown in from London.

Commenting on the collection, Atul Chand, Divisional Chief Executive, ITC Lifestyle Retailing, said "The Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale has been setting new standards edition after edition. This time too the show was magnificent with the fabulous combination of Manish's creative energy and talent and a meticulous eye to the smallest of details. The collection was stunning and the show, yet again, was a treat for the senses." He further added, "Our partnership with Manish extends beyond the ramp. Today's Grand Finale collection will be the inspiration for our Wills signature line of exclusive designer wear and will be retailed at the Wills Lifestyle stores across the country."

Speaking on the theme of his collection Manish Arora said, "I feel that Circus is a part of everybody's life. The way we live our life these days is like a circus - entertaining and hilarious. It may seem to be a common theme, not something out of the box, but as always, it is closely associated with life."

The collection explored innovative techniques of embroidery like hand sown appliqué, digitally printed sequin as well as traditional Indian gota embroidery. Unique textures were achieved with the use of unusual leather sequins. Silhouettes in the collection included short dresses, mini skirts, trousers, voluminous jackets, ruffled skirts and dresses as well as pieces largely inspired from circus costumes as was evident from the clown pants, bra tops, bat-wing sleeves, multiple bows and jumpsuits.

The audiences at the Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale were spell bound as they saw the ramp turn into a rich medley of colour, creativity, dramatic renditions of the world of circus and a stunning collection true to the creative genius of the brilliant designer. It was a show that would leave a strong impression on one and all and remembered with awe. Original, innovative and a vibrant mood setter is how the Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale can be summed up as and it closed the spring summer '09 edition of WIFW on a perfect note.