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For the peacocks!

Anuj Kumar speaks to some of the designers who are participating in the ongoing Castle Men's Fashion Fair-2006 in Bangalore

STRIKING STRIPES A model sporting a Hemant-Laconaet outfit showcased at the Fair

When it comes to fashion, Indian men are said to be lagging behind. Not any more.

As the Castle India Men's Fashion Fair 2006 CIMFF takes off in Bangalore, some of the participants have previewed their collections in New Delhi.

Says Rohit Bal, who is using the opportunity to take his all-white tone on tone Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week collection to Bangalore, "I find a majority of Indian man conformist when it comes to dressing up. I design for 0.1 percent of them who want to have fun and hope with fairs like these the attitude rubs on the rest." As his models whistle past the aisle in embroidered linen jackets and trousers, those with chakra and jaal embroidery and blue tape detailing charm the crowd to reciprocate likewise.

Taking men's fashion beyond the obvious are designers Hemant Sagar and Didier Lecoanet, who are showcasing on the Indian stage for the first time. Called "Secret Life of LH", the collection is sharp and edgy. Watch out for the blue outfit where there is Red Fort at the back with a peacock peeping. And it screams Standard Fireworks.

"This is also the first time that we are trying our hand at menswear. We are trained in women's fashion in Paris, so even if we want to we can't break certain rules. Here there was no limitation. In India, men wear clothes that they need. I wanted to create something that they want," shares Hemant.

Paharganj connection

As for the outfit, Hemant says, "I went to Paharganj and was besotted by the banner of a fireworks shop. Instead of fireworks, I bought the banner and turned it around into an outfit. If I get the orders, I will create it in better stuff."

Another stylist to look out for is Bangladeshi designer Bibi Russell, who is working with Rajasthani artisans for the past five years. Once a celebrated model, who walked the ramp for Armani among others, Bibi turned designer a few years back and is now working in collaboration with the Rajasthan Government.

"I wish Indian men to come out of the shirt-jeans mental block and go for the traditional outfits. This will not only sustain the heritage but also provide sustenance to craftsmen." Here she has tried Jodhpuri pants and kurtas in Kota Doria and khadi.

The event is presented by style guru, Prasad Bidappa. He says, "All along, men's fashion has been saddled with other segments.

Here we are trying to give it, its due importance by putting all the prominent brands together.

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