Fashion Unlimited

Scoped out the range of colourful kurtis, skirts and other ethnic ensembles at Nutan Sarawagi’s little store called Kurtiz. Beautifully co-ordinated and block-printed rather than mass-produced like the chain store offerings, these are just right for the season.
Striped leggings. Gothic tops. Laced-up boots. So not October. So not me. What with the current heat and the upcoming festivities, I just want one great place where I can pick up ethno-trendy wear with minimum fuss. And I think I’ve found someone who understands my needs like no European designer can. But my extra-special discovery was the mojris she stocks. Not to be confused with the crassly crafted creaky leather creations that we get at Colaba Causeway, these are the real thing from Jodhpur. And perhaps even better.

They’re superbly shaped and stitched by a master cobbler, but also have Nutan’s contemporary stylistic sensibilities sewn into the pliant-as-papaya uppers. Colours, designs, embellishments, they’re all orchestrated by her in close consultation with the master cobbler’s wife. This woman, who’s been doing ari-work embroidery from her childhood, now creates breathtakingly beautiful designs on jootis. I was floored by the swirl of peacocks, flowers, and other traditional-turned-trendy motifs that she brings to life in perfect symmetry on every pair.

And besides loving the careful selection of colours to suit my city palette, what I simply adored were the matching pendants that adorned each foot. Some with ghungroos, some inlaid with precious stones, each one adding another dimension to the footwear. How perfect, I thought, to wear with my raw silk skirt, corset and stole! Or, on a day when I’m not feeling up to my peep-toe stilettos with denims, how fabulously easy to slip into these cushioned flats for a relaxed chic look. No wonder I’m feeling festive already.

And besides loving the careful selection of colours to suit my city palette, what I simply adored were the matching pendants that adorned each foot. Some with ghungroos, some inlaid with precious stones, each one adding another dimension to the footwear. How perfect, I thought, to wear with my raw silk skirt, corset and stole! Or, on a day when I’m not feeling up to my peep-toe stilettos with denims, how fabulously easy to slip into these cushioned flats for a relaxed chic look. No wonder I’m feeling festive already.