The chants of cheering sports fans boomed from speakers at the Dhruv Kapoor venue Monday, its flooring mimicking a running track.
The fall coed show was not necessarily about sportswear — although a few pieces were tossed in, including soccer jerseys — but the narrative helped the Indian designer convey his message of togetherness during challenging times.
“I’m not one to delve into political spaces, but obviously I could not ignore the turbulent scene that is happening around the world. And I wanted to somehow use the opportunity and the brand as a metaphor to unite,” the young designer said backstage.
Taking a few distinct pathways, he threw core sports gear into the mix, parading soccer jerseys-cum-frocks spelling out “One World” and layering a two-tone hoodie reading “Better Together” under a burgundy long coat.
Tailoring, one of two backbones of the coed lineup, was nicely done, especially in the sleeker versions, from the military green short jacket and matching pants with a pleated shirt peaking from underneath and the boxy, cropped suit with Bermuda pants, to the female peacoat turned into a vest. Some of it featured Kapoor’s signature floral bead embroideries, this time falling apart as if dripping.
Sartorial ambition was evident in the minidresses with heart-shaped bodices and neoprene ruffled frocks, while cargo pants, skirts and denim pieces with a youthful, rebellious whiff didn’t add much to the collection.
Kapoor unveiled a Nike collaboration, which saw the designer repurpose deadstock clothing into patchwork jerseys, hooded vests and short jackets.
