Indian designer Anamika Khanna is set to present her label AK|OK in London. The show takes place at Hamleys toy store during London Fashion Week.
Hamleys offers a playful and unexpected venue for a high-fashion showcase.
Some of Bollywood’s biggest names are expected in attendance.
Inspiration Behind the Collection
Khanna describes the new collection as an emotional exploration.
She draws from Indian mythology, astronomy, Upanishads, Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Yet she refrains from literal representations. Rather, she layers emotional threads with relevance for today.
The collection reimagines traditional silhouettes through modern cuts and shapes.
For instance she takes the angrakha and wraps dhoti styles into new proportions.
Cultural Roots, Global Lens
Khanna affirms strong pride in India’s craft, textiles and heritage.
She believes Indian artistry is among the richest in the world.
Also, she notes that global audiences often find Indian shapes striking.
Thus she aims to present them in ways that feel both familiar and novel.
Designer’s Rituals and Philosophy
Khanna says she often rejects many ideas before embracing one.
She values perfectionism alongside instinct in her creative process.
A personal ritual: her mother’s silver coin accompanies her to every show.
This coin grounds her, connecting past to present.
Broader Implications
AK|OK’s London debut marks another milestone for Indian designers abroad.
It demonstrates that traditional Indian craft can travel seamlessly into global fashion circuits.
It may also shift perceptions about where and how fashion shows should happen.
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