Words, Images Judith Ecochard
EMBRACING "THE ART OF OUR HERITAGE” IN A RTW COLLECTION
A presentation in a gallery space downtown Manhattan was a great way to discover a label that’s new to us: SACHIN AND BABI for ANKASA.
Ornate, but in a good “western” way ---meaning done as highlights-- in edgy, easy to wear hip silhouettes--- were the takeaways for us---of these well done separates for modern gals.
The deft way with intricate beading and sequins makes sense as this married couple has been in the business for fifteen years, doing complicated embroideries for other contemporary and top designer RTW labels…in their own factory in India.
“We know what we’re doing,” Babi informed us.
And we concur, as the fabric manipulations of knits, silks, jersey etc and details of sequin overlays and embroideries- are astounding.
A lot of handwork is involved…yet the collection is priced well…comparable to a Catherine Maladrino or DVF’s collection. (Mostly $190-topped out at $$665 for a knockout silk long sleeve top with gauze sleeves and allover crystal and bugle bead embroidery).
BACKSTORY: The duo, Sachin and Babi Ahluwalia met at FIT. Ankasa is the name of their home décor collection…that is available for sale at their store:
135 East 65th Street
New York, NY 10021
212.861.6800
and at stores like Calypso St-Barths
INFO: ANKASA
