Gauri Khan at Bollygoods Edition 2

Recently I attended BollyGoods Edition 2 in London. A unique exhibition inspired by the celluloid world, presented by the extended Bollywood fraternity. Inaugurated by First Lady of Bollywood, Gauri Khan, BollyGoods is the brainchild of Delhi-based entrepreneur, Promila Jain Bahri, a design enthusiast who has enjoyed a successful career in the world of aesthetics. Bringing the concept to the UK is London-based luxury consultant, influencer and stylist, Shivani Ahluwalia. She says, “I’ve worked in the luxury sector for years and bringing BollyGoods to the UK is an incredible opportunity for us to showcase the art, craft and design that is synonymous with the industry to purveyors of luxury goods and Bollywood enthusiasts alike. The UK has never before hosted an event of this kind and we are extremely excited to be bringing BollyGoods to London.”

In the London edition, I explored some great brands and met some interesting designers. Here are some of my favorites.

Gauri & Nanika – They are a red carpet favourite of Bollywood’s A-list. Design duo Gauri & Nanika showcased their latest collection recently adored by some celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra, Kriti Sanon and many more. Inspired by European fashion history, art, music, books, theatre, old Hollywood, red carpet glamour and pictures of their mother from the 70s, the brand has always exuded a feminine and romantic design philosophy, with styles that are luxurious yet understated. The pieces are meticulously crafted and have a timeless appeal, where old world charm, fantasy and elegance are modernised.

Poonam Kapoor – Absolutely stunning chikankari collection by Poonam Kapoor. Chikankari should be your go to option for summer weddings. The work is so lightweight, delicate and comes in range of soft pastel colours. The stunning collection on display had beautiful pastel shades saris, suits and lehngas. Poonam Kapoor the lady behind this brand was wearing this lovely chikankari cape, which I thought was such a great idea. She looked every inch classy. Contact Poonam Kapoor on poonamkapoor1958@gmail.com

Abha Dalmia – I was so impressed by this lady. She had the most gorgeous collection of traditional Benarasi saris. Every new bride needs a red Benarasi sari in her trousseau and Abha Dalmia is your go to lady for that red sari. She was herself so impeccably dressed. A true epitome of grace. They only sell through exhibitions so you can contact them via email – life7000@rediffmail.com

Studio AV by Gaurav & Nitesh – Wow! I so loved their collection. They had some really stunning outfits and interesting pieces like this one which I tried (on my denim shirt). This outfit makes you look so regal and elegant. The use of rich banarasi gold brocade fabric adds that royal touch. These guys are based in Calcutta and have a lovely range of Saris, Suits and Lehenga. Make sure to check them out o Facebook here.

Onita – They showcased a very opulent collection from Shamaeel Ansari, Rani Emaan and some more south Asian designers at the event. See their Facebook page here

Shri Hari Diagems – If you are getting married and need some real traditional jewellery, then do checkout their collection. They created the exquisite jewellery worn by Deepika Padukone in, Bajirao Mastani. They had some grand pieces on display. Every piece was a work of beautiful craftsmanship. The brand has been going on for 226 years so they know their game well. Checkout their Facebook page here.

Red Dot Jewels – Red Dot Jewels displayed their latest jewellery range. The new collection was splendid. Red Dot now have a store in Pinner Village so do go and see for yourself.

I also tried this lovely chikankari outfit from Neetika Couture. I really liked the colour combination in the chikankari embroidery but it was bit too long for my liking.

Further jewellery exhibitors included Manish Arora, AM PM and Roshni Chopra, actress, television presenter, winner of NDTV Imagine reality show and now designer.

See photo diary below.