It's Carnival Chic for Malini Ramani

I

t's amazing how much she transfers herself into her garments all the time and so well," said Tarun Tahiliani [ Images ] about designer Malini Ramani's Carnival Chic! collection at the Lakme India [ Images ] Fashion Week 2005.

He wasn't kidding.

In a three-pronged collection about three girls -- Maya, the Bombay Bohemian, Maria, the Carnival Girl and Tara, the Guru Girl -- Malini unveiled decidedly sophisticated ensembles in mix-and-match, ruffle skirts, corsets, kaftans, and cholis. Her collection reflected her trademark bright colours.

"It's about their journey in search of glamour and fashion -- from Bombay to Benaras to Bali. The clothes are a reflection of their journeys," said Malini.

Former model Feroze Gujaral said, "I think it was very unusual, looked a little bit like the Kill Bill [ Images ] collection, but some of the pieces were really beautiful."

Malini's collection is priced between Rs 3,000 and Rs 20,000.

Photograph: Jewella C Miranda