Four new brands innovate at GenNext show during Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI

Up and coming designers Padma Saldon of ‘2112 Saldon,’ Ananya Arora of ‘Ananya The Label,’ Ranjit and Saurabh Maurya of ‘Margn,’ and Sakshi Vijay Punyani of ‘VJ’ pushed the boundaries of fashion at the GenNext showcase at Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India on October 10.

“At Lakmē Fashion Week x FDCI, we embody the ever-evolving spirit of fashion and beauty, constantly pushing boundaries,” said Lakmē’s vice president Sunanda Khaitan in a press release on October 10. “This season’s GenNext designers embody the resilience and creativity of a new era, reflecting our dedication to discovering, nurturing, and empowering young talent who will shape the future of global fashion. We believe our country is brimming with talent, and with able mentorship, these individuals can significantly influence the industry with innovative and sustainable ideas. We are delighted to watch these promising designers unveil their collections, bringing their creative storytelling to life.”
 
For her brand 2112 Saldon, Padma Saldon showcased a collection titled ‘A Cultural Tapestry’ which celebrated the traditions and culture of her native Ladakh. Saldon used patchwork and resist printing techniques to show the beauty of sheep’s wool and reference traditional Goncha and Sulma clothing in vibrant hues.
 
Ananya Arora’s brand Ananya The Label presented menswear collection ‘Zazen,’ inspired by Odilon Redon’s painting of The Buddha. The relaxed, fusion style collection featured phulkari embroidery and textiles used included handloom and kala cotton denim.
 
“We have always been committed to nurturing the brightest minds in Indian Fashion at Lakmē Fashion Week x FDCI and are looking forward to witnessing the 38th batch of GenNext designers showcase their creativity on the runway this season,” said Reliance Brands Limited’s group vice president Jaspreet Chandok. “The #NIF Global presents GenNext program, has been instrumental to this platform’s journey over the past several years. From giving some of the nation’s most creative minds a stepping stone into the fashion industry to mentoring and empowering newer talent across the country, the platform has significantly impacted the Indian and Global fashion industry.”
 
Ranjit and Saurabh Maurya brand Margn showcased a bold yet functional line of menswear titled ‘Fall/ Winter 2024’. With textiles including recycled wool boucle, cotton twill checks and Bamberg lining on trousers, the collection added hints of tradition to utilitarian looks.
 
Sakshi Vijay Punyani’s label VJ explored the idea of the acceptance of grief through intricate knitwear garments. Taking merino, alpaca wool, cotton, recycled banana polyester, and silk yarns, Punyani used patchwork and hand knitting techniques to render translucent gowns and cover-ups.
 
“The GenNext program has been a crucial part of FDCI’s journey, and we look forward to seeing the new batch of GenNext designers take over the runway this season,” said FDCI chairman Sunil Sethi. “The fashion scenes in India and throughout the world have been profoundly influenced by this project. The program acts as a transformative platform, providing some of the most talented youth in the country with an essential launchpad.”
 
Lakmē Fashion Week x FDCI runs from October 9 to 13 in New Delhi. The event launched with a showcase from Péro and will feature brands from across India.