By Saba Ahmed

Generation takes a bold step to reconquer the fashion trailblazer they used to be. Coming out with contemporary cuts and daring pattern work, Generation gives prêt lines a run for their money. Presenting something for everyone and of all ages, the pieces are equally fitting for a black tie soiree, a shaadi event, and a casual brunch.

Generation’s intimate sneak peek, hosted spectacularly by Generation’s Khadija Rahman, was a charming affair complete with melon balls, gelato, light swing music and an artistic fervour captured in a mood video. This new collection takes its inspiration from nature and the elements. The symbolism of animal instinct and elemental potential energy is worked in the outfits with meticulous innovation.

Rocks and marbling, tortoise shells, moth wings, cow skins, ink blots and leopard prints have been re-read, a decisive step away from your average cheetah print shalwar kameez

Rocks and marbling, tortoise shells, moth wings, cow skins, ink blots and leopard prints all have been re-read, a decisive step away from your average cheetah print shalwar kameez. Each texture and pattern is worked in a different craft, each local and indigenous, yet used in a new way. The reptilian scales become funky in silver and purple hues of mukaish and the detail in the moth’s wings become the embellishment for wide leg pants in appliqué and multiple embroideries. Everything from gota, mukaish, and haath ka tanka to ralli and kaanta has been employed to bring to life these outfits.

The denim pieces use fabric created exclusively for this collection by Generation itself. Denim has been worked with mukaish again and custom created cut-work patterns with experiments in prints and washes. “With the new cuts, it’s just fun to do a slightly different line,” says Khadija. There are variations too from ramp to rack, showing to audiences and fashion newbies the recommended pairing and styling of certain pieces. Especially, as Khadija explains, for cholis, there are many a fashion faux pas and queries relating to what to wear them with, the catwalk helps to clear misgivings. Equally important, Generation gives a wide variety to its shoppers — a certain piece can be found with and without sleeves on the rack, for example — and this is the hallmark of Generation’s lasting success.