Tarun Tahiliani redefines 'India-modern' with Tasva at Lakme Fashion Week 2025

On Day 4 of Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI, designer Tarun Tahiliani presented his latest collection, Tasva, showcasing a fresh interpretation of modern Indian couture. The collection combined traditional craftsmanship with contemporary silhouettes, reflecting Tahiliani’s signature philosophy of “India-Modern”, a balance between heritage and wearable luxury.

Tasva, a collaboration with Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail, opened the day with garments crafted from silk blends and custom jacquards in shades of ivory, jade, taupe, gold, and salmon. The collection featured intricate techniques including zardozi, pearls, applique, mirrorwork, Aari, and Dori machine embroidery. Designed for grooms, family members, and guests, the line offered Indian craftsmanship in refined, comfortable, and accessible pieces.

The bandhgalas, jackets, and kurtas presented on the ramp emphasized structured yet fluid silhouettes, allowing ease of movement while retaining luxury. Jewel-toned jackets, kimono-inspired cuts, and bomber styles incorporated chiffon and satin, accented with pearls and talismanic charms. Lakme described the collection as “quiet glamour,” highlighting its understated elegance.

Earlier this year, Tahiliani marked 30 years of his label with Quintessence, a couture collection showcased at The Oberoi in New Delhi. That line featured 95 pieces, including panelled kalidars, concept saris, corseted blouses, and embroidered jackets, accompanied by live piano and cello music. The designs focused on proportion, comfort, and movement rather than overt embellishment, reflecting Tahiliani’s approach of preserving tradition without nostalgia.

Tasva continues this ethos, presenting Indian craft in a form suited for modern lifestyles. The designer’s focus on architectural precision, thoughtful detailing, and wearable luxury was evident across the collection. Each garment emphasized how the fabric moves with the body, rather than how the body must pose for the garment.

Despite a recent hip replacement, Tahiliani oversaw the show with precision and humor, reinforcing his reputation for dedication and resilience. His work bridges the gap between high-end couture and everyday wear, demonstrating that Indian fashion can be both luxurious and practical.

India-Modern, as defined by Tahiliani, is not merely the fusion of East and West but the seamless integration of traditional craft with contemporary sensibilities. Tasva exemplifies this philosophy, offering garments that are rooted in heritage yet accessible and elegant for daily occasions, weddings, and festive celebrations.

With Tasva, Tarun Tahiliani continues to set benchmarks in Indian fashion, combining craftsmanship, innovation, and wearability. The collection underscores the designer’s enduring influence and commitment to evolving Indian couture for a global audience.