Latest Eid collection pays homage to history

Sonya Battla embodies regality of the subcontinent in ‘The Grand Trunk Road’

KARACHI: Sonya Battla’s ‘The Grand Trunk Road’ collection is an unswerving journey of motifs adapted for her luxury prêt collection releasing this Eid. The collection we previewed on Friday comprised unique pieces that one can possibly wear on a holiday to a resort locale.

On the choice of title, ‘The Grand Trunk Road’, the designer shares that she’s been following British historian William Dalrymple’s work dedicated to India and its surrounding areas.

“One would find innovation of sorts in this particular collection. You can sport Kolkata kurtas with the motif of women dancers and 1850 era paisley designs,” Battla tells The Express Tribune. According to Battla the collection embodies how ‘The Grand Trunk Road’ was a passage for the British people to enter India and how on their journey, they met fascinating storytellers and dancers.

“This collection truly pays homage to the writings of Dalrymple. There is creativity and imagination coming from his writing that inspires my line. I would like to see how a traveller from an ancient time lives in ours.”

For the Eid collection that hits racks on Monday at her Studio located on E-Street, Battla terms it as “subtle”. “The collection is not heightened and is not as dramatic as it usually is for fashion week showcases,” she says. The Eid compilation is also limited. “It’s a limited edition, which only a few people will own. I don’t want the same apparel for everyone and digital prints can easily become repetitive.”

Her luxury prêt limited edition is priced between Rs13000 to Rs24000 and the silk range consists of exclusively designed digital prints. Her cotton collection won’t be as steeply priced as her silk anthology though.

Making progress online gradually, Battla keeps active on social media and remains connected to a larger cluster of fans and consumers. “Facebook, along with other social media has helped us excel, all while reaching out to fans and fashionistas.”

Post Eid, the designer will be occupied with taking exclusive bridal orders.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 13^th,  2015.

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