SACHIN & BABI | NYFW F/W 2017

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Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia’s works analyze the intersection of British and Indian culture during the British Raj. The British Raj was the rule of the British Crown in the Indian subcontinent between 1858 and 1947, a rule which extending over India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The resulting political union was also called the Indian Empire, which later partitioned British India into two independent sovereign dominions of India and Pakistan. This act received royal assent when it became a separate British colony, with India gaining independence on July 18, 1947. Sachin and Babi’s opulent Fall/Winter ‘17 collection merged two cultures in perfect harmony. As Indian immigrants who have made New York City their home, Sachin and Babi wanted to express India’s rich cultural history while demonstrating that the inclusion of other cultures does not harm or take away from theirs, instead creating an inclusive environment for all. This idea of union was effectively shown through the juxtaposing of English rose prints with Maharani Necklaces and Raisin Cambridge stripes with Jodhpur sleeves.

The sumptuous collection entitled, The Inevitable Raj adhered to the Sachin and Babi core aesthetic, presented through alluring textiles including a putty silk taffeta dress, an ivory poplin blouse, a navy lame tunic dress, a black lace gown with ruby and fuchsia lace patchwork, and a black crepe strapless gown with accompanying Jodhpur lace sleeves. Each look spoke of affluence and luxury in its purest form, seamlessly mirroring the location at the National Arts Club. The National Arts club is a national historic landmark of New York City, and has been since 1898. Situated in Gramercy Park, it’s aim is to “stimulate, foster, and promote public interest in the arts and to educate the American people in the fine arts.” –Charles DeKay, Founder. The Inevitable Raj created an effective culture clash, but also an atmosphere that encouraged cultural collaboration.