This past season we were all supposed to be frugal. The economy was not, ahem, in the best of states.
It was all about consumer consciousness, about not going over the top.
Interesting then, to note the frou frou that found itself on many a runway.
There were the intricate ruffles and pleats at Givenchy.



And that was not even the couture collection…
Of course, it was present in couture at Chanel.

The collective pouf reminded me of McQueen from a few years back.

Designers in the Motherland – a country known for embellishment – went full on with their frill as well. Archana Kochar showed this gown made of stunning organza flowers.

The big skirt was also present at Valentino couture. Liya Kebede looked glorious in Elle Italia.
The lainga – the original desi ballgown, complete with gilded tassles – was not about red ink at all.

Loved the simple suit and ruffled coat at Nikasha Tawadey, too.
My favourite frou was at Lanvin – feminine and delicate – and perfect on Rosamund Pike at the BFAs.

So, were designers off their custom made rockers?
Or were they just trying to give us an escape?
Western collection shots courtesy of Style.com. BFA shot courtesy of Glamour magazine. All others, courtesy of Vogue India.