Pop icon Madonna inspired Indian designer's collection showcased at the Lakme Fashion Week (LFW).

Drawing inspiration from the 49-year-old style diva, designer Nandita Thirani came up with a very funky yet an elegant collection under her label 'Contradiction' that embodied the spirit of reinvention in a person's life.

Working around three basic colours - black, white and hot pink, she put up a collection of classy cocktail dresses in sheer fabrics of georgettes and chiffons.

Short funky dresses in chessboard designs stood out for their simple cuts and feminine elegance.

"The theme of collection is Madonna Affliction. It signifies reinventing yourself, because Madonna is a pop icon who keeps on reinventing herself. It's a very young collection and it's very elegant," said Thirani.

Meanwhile, debutante designer Kunal Rawal's casual and chic men's wear for the coming Spring-Summer 2008 titled "Free Hugs", carried hints of the 80's era to suit the modern-day male.

Relaxed and comfortable clothing in a mix of flashy neons, racy acidic colours with shades of blue, white and grey, brought in a dash of freshness that embodies the spirit of spring-summer.

Bermudas, shirts, pullovers, hooded jackets, jumpers and semi-formal wear completed the couture.

Minimalist style detailing and bright slogans created a synergy between psychedelic and simplicity.

"The idea is to focus on comfort and relaxed clothing. I don't think anyone is taking care of designer casual wear in India. I think it's a very big market especially for a country like India that is being hit by globalisation so hard and so fast," said Rawal.

The fashion week has seen designers experimenting with strong colours rather than seasonal whites and muted pastels.

LFW is the first event independently organised by fashion accessories major, Lakme.

(China Daily/Agencies October 18, 2007)