A Tribute to Timeless Craftsmanship
Renowned for his unwavering dedication to promoting Parsi Gara embroidery, designer Ashdeen Lilaowala has ensured this traditional craft remains in the spotlight. As an award-winning textile designer, author, and curator, Ashdeen’s eponymous label has become synonymous with the revival and celebration of the Gara. His creations have graced both Indian and international celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey, Priyanka Chopra, Sonam Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit, Tabu, and Waheeda Rehman.
At Lakmé Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, Ashdeen’s collection titled Fragments of Time explored a bold new dimension for the Parsi Gara craft.
Artistic Inspiration Meets Heritage
For this collection, Ashdeen drew inspiration from Dutch artist Patrick Bergsma’s works, influenced by Japanese art forms such as Bonsai (the art of cultivating miniature trees), Ikebana (flower arrangement), and Kintsugi (repairing porcelain with golden seams). The theme reflected a reverence for nature and beauty, much like the Parsi traditions, and allowed the embroidery to shine with intricate details.
Focus on Hand-Embroidery and Contemporary Silhouettes
The collection embraced pared-back silhouettes, allowing Ashdeen’s signature hand-embroidery and embellishments to take centre stage. Rich florals intertwined with delicate lace, patchwork, and appliqué techniques created an elegant and modern fusion. The lineup included cocktail dresses, shirts, skirts, pants, long jackets, and saris—each piece layered yet effortlessly wearable.
A Showstopper in Gara
Photo : Perfect Shadows / FDCI x Lakme Fashion Week / RISE Worldwide
Actress Alaya F closed the show in a stunning, fully embroidered “will-power” dress, featuring a scalloped high slit at the hip. The gown was a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of Parsi Gara embroidery, adorned with florals and touches of gold, blending lightness with opulence.
A Legacy of Craft and Luxury
“Patrick Bergsma’s artwork and the Japanese philosophies it draws from deeply resonate with the Parsi reverence for nature and beauty,” said Ashdeen Lilaowala. “We wanted to celebrate these ideals while keeping the focus on our hand-embroidery expertise, all infused with an optimistic, festive spirit.”
Alaya F shared her excitement about walking for Ashdeen, stating, “It was such an honor to close Ashdeen’s Spring/Summer 2025 show. The gown I wore was light yet luxurious, fully hand-embroidered in Parsi Gara tradition with florals and golden details. I could easily picture wearing it on the red carpet.”
A Collector’s Dream
Ashdeen Lilaowala’s Fragments of Time collection promises to be a timeless addition to the world of haute couture, offering pieces that will likely become heirlooms, preserving the beauty of Parsi Gara embroidery for generations to come.
