The Armoire, a one-day luxe popup curated by Nandini Varshnei, was launched at Buva House. It showcased the best of Indian and contemporary fashion from an eclectic mix of 25+ designers and labels from across the country. The event boasted a unique collection of ‘affordable luxury’ from a slew of designer names, but also promised to be easy on the pocket. On display at the pop up was a range of wardrobe essentials for all ages as well as a contemporary and modern take on festive staples for destination weddings, summer brunches or the soon approaching festival of Holi.
The Armoire was proud to present designer Kavita Bhartia for the first time in the city’s pop up circuit. The eponymous label showcased its latest Spring/Summer 2018 collection ‘Diary Of Flowers’ which remained true to the designer’s love for feminine hues, floral motifs and geometric patterns. Also coming to Chennai for the first time were fashion week designers Nupur Kanoi, Mrinalini and Arcvsh by Pallavi Singh. Nupur Kanoi specialises in handcrafted fusion wear using high quality natural fabrics, intensive embroideries and techniques like tie and dye, while Mrinalini is known for her practical organic clothing in light weight fabrics like linen. Arcvsh by Pallavi Singh’s collection was inspired by Japanese craft, with relaxed fits in handwoven fabrics and a wide use of hand block and screen printing.
The Armoire also brought back bestsellers Soup by Sougat Paul, Vedika M, Divya Jain, Kanelle, Aruni, PoshPride, and NEH with their latest collections. Latest collections from Designers such as Meghna Panchmatia with her collection of ombré shaded tunics in natural fabrics, Divya Gupta with her unique drapes and colourful palette, Harsh Harsh with its collection of contemporary looks in interestingly cut silhouettes, 335th with its bold construction and expert colour blocking, and Neiv By Stuti Kejriwal who brought in tow her collection of indo-westerns with floral appliqués and embroideries were displayed at The Armoire. Those who were looking for something more traditional shopped from Rupali Singh and Saumya boutique’s collection of ethnic wear. Accessory buffs looked forward to jewellery that doesn’t break the bank by Zariin and Pipa Bella, stylish juttis by Pastels & Pop and statement bags by Namrata Kumar. A range of home and gifting solutions from Vintage Notes Papery was also a part of the pop up.
With so many powerhouses under one roof, The Armoire did not to disappoint the discerning shopper. The event had been curated by founder Nandini Varshnei. After completing her degree in entrepreneurship at University College London (UCL) and a long stint with a multinational bank, Nandini decided to channel her creative energy and follow her passion of putting together eclectic ensembles via her pop up shops. She asserts that The Armoire is very different from conventional exhibitions by being personally curated, on trend, and offering customers a more organised shopping experience. Despite having moved to New Delhi recently, she is determined to continue organising pop ups in Chennai owing to her love for her home city and the need to fill the gap in the market for affordable luxury wear.
