When it comes to drama, quirk, magic and design, no one does it better than the star Indian designer Manish Arora. The 38-year-old designer, a veteran in Indian fashion, pulled off yet another dramatic feat whilst showcasing his collection at the Paris Fashion week. The show was based around a Russian illusionist performing for his show. The models appeared and disappeared from a glass case as they showcased his autumn/winter 2011 collection, inspired by magic dolls. It comprised the bling factor, and the sequin and patchwork crafted and tailored with finesse outfits kept the Indian flavor alive. There were his famous bell-shaped skirts and body-con dresses in velvet and satin in cheery hues. Arora managed to wow the audiences with his quirky act.
Indeed, Arora is well-known for his penchant for theatrics on the ramp and the crazy inventiveness of his clothes. This time, however, he resorted to actual magic tricks as he got illusionist Benjamin Dukhan to add a new dimension to his show. The magician, channeling Gothic glamour with his flowing black robes and a beard, wheeled an empty cage onto the runway, covered it with his cape and pulled it back with a flourish to reveal the model who had suddenly appeared inside. At one point, Dukhan even sawed one of the girls in half.