This designer brings heritage to Gen Z and home décor with a modern twist

Hand-woven linens, soft silks, organzas, intricate lace blouses, and elaborate floral motifs meet embellished sheer socks, Mary Janes, and sarees styled in unexpected ways. That’s Anavila Misra’s latest collection, ‘Sarmast’ for you. At first glance, it might seem nothing like your typical Anavila showcase, but in every sense, it stays true to her signature style.

Of contrasts and confidence

On May 29, Misra unveiled Sarmast at The Leela Hyderabad. The runway? The grand lobby of the property, at the heart of which stood an elaborate, regal display of chandeliers, grazing boards, flowers, and the works. The lights came on, and on cue, a model walked in an oversized-sleeved blouse paired with an intricately embroidered lehenga, while others strutted in slacks embroidered with floral trails, or sarees paired with sheer tops, or pant suits with Nawabi caps. Metallics, layered pearls, and echoes of Nizami regality were everywhere as was a sense of modern freshness. 

The line-up is a true reflection of Misra’s design language and her passion for hand-woven textiles, but it also speaks to her evolving creative vision. “A collection or a brand reflects how a designer perceives themselves,” Misra explains.  “Up intil Payanam (Misra’s 2014 collection showcased during the Chettinad Heritage Festival), my work mirrored how I liked to drape my sarees or what I preferred aesthetically. But with Sarmast, I wanted to break free from those silhouettes. I see how GenZs, regardless of what they wear, carry their confidence. I admire that they are unafraid to experiment with their style and are a lot more confident in their skin. Sarmast has been designed to make these textiles and craft appealing to a newer generation.”

Artful Touches for Your Home

The launch of the collection coincided with the label’s retail expansion at the newly opened Maison Isa, at The Leela Hyderabad. The boutique also houses the designer’s home décor line, which has found an audience at international design fairs and is set to debut in India. Created in collaboration with Deepthi Reddy of The Leela Hyderabad, the collection includes everything, from rich upholstery, textured cushions, throws, and accessories that blend traditional techniques with Misra's signature, craft-forward approach. 
 

All images: Anavila

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