Bengali designers Dev 'r' Nil's (the 'r' means 'and' in Bengali) collection opened to the soothing strains of a French tune. Models sashayed down the ramp wearing subtle make-up and coy, innocent expressions on their faces. Their hair was pleated and draped like wreaths.

The collection used lots of satin, silks, georgette, velvet, pashmina and crinkled fabric. The colours -- plum, mauve, ochre, red, moss green, purple, beige and muted gold. We saw lots of fitted pants with subtle stripes, some with two different colours for the front and back.

Balloon skirts and corsets were back on the ramp, looking very trendy and more wearable by the minute. High heeled and medium heeled pumps made for stylish footwear.

And we also saw interesting accessories - pieces that resembled necklaces but were actually stole-like and draped around the shoulders. We also saw long sheer sleeves, pleats and skirts with a few inches of tulle below the hemlines of all skirts. Also an interesting bottom piece with a pocket on the outside, which resembled a little pouch.

Here we see a pretty, simple beige top and red skirt with a pouch-pocket.

Can you wear this? Yes, yes, yes. Fantastic subtle colours, smart pumps, neck accessories and detailing.

Text: Merril Diniz
Photo: Jewella C Miranda