Surily's Trans-continental Journey

If one were to take away the stars from Surily Goel's debut Lakme Fashion Week show, there were few moments that really made an impact.

Her collection titled 'Roses Are Forever' was inspired by the many moods of a woman in love, from shy and flirtatious, to sultry and passionate. While the collection had a lot of colour and glamour, it tended towards a lack in innovation, with certain shapes like the flounced panelled skirt appearing too often and the Rose theme not often enough.

The sequence was divided into four parts each representing a different mood, each with a romantic title. I'll just walk you through the ensembles that represent each.

Here you see Neelam Kothari in an ensemble from the line 'Wild Temptation', which was a printed cotton resort line with African tribal prints on halters, skirts, minis and tube dresses in vibrant hues of red, turquoise, mustard and sunshine yellow. An interesting line, but one which doesn't quite fall within the Rose theme.

Paisleys ruled on kimono-inspired silhouettes in the second line titled 'Sweet Sensation'. With a definite Oriental flavour in all-over prints on muted tones of grey/blue satin, this line consisted of blouses, dresses and tiny tops as well as long slim skirts with crochet lace insets.

'Tender Love' the third collection replete with charming English touches such as this lacey parasol, had elements of an ecru crochet base with bright georgette insets.

Finally, 'Pure Passion' with abstract rose inspired prints in red and blue on a black satin ground, brings to mind the sensuality of the Spanish dancer, as can be seen here on the lovely Nina Manuel.

One came away with the impression that the designer was attempting to explore roses in their pale English softness, as also their vibrant Spanish lusciousness, their dramatic Oriental avtaar, and not to miss their sub-Saharan African quality, but the final effect appeared fragmented thanks to these very varied points of reference. And while I concede it's no joke putting together a collection, somewhere along this journey across continents, Surily left us feeling a tad disoriented.

Photos: Rediff.com, Reuters.