For the first time in nearly two years Babi Ahluwalia was able to return to India to see her family, friends, and the factories she operates with her husband, Sachin. Next door to one atelier is an art gallery showcasing the work of “real Indian masters,” she said on a FaceTime call, explaining how revisiting Indian heritage and craft inspired her brand’s pre-fall collection. Light, airy fabrics are dyed lilac or vermillion, accompanied by a renewed emphasis on decorative trims. Lace, tassels, and simple embroideries bring a new texture to the Ahluwalias’ work, ideas that were mostly absent during their lockdown collections but feel right for a reemergence world.
Silhouettes are breezy, with tiered skirts, off-the-shoulder necklines, and a new selection of halter tops to appeal to the brand’s younger clientele. The working woman who may have come to Sachin & Babi years ago for her occasionwear is still on the designers’ mind too. An elegant strapless gown in blue brocade with coral flowers and a shocking pink draped V-front number close out the collection with cautious optimism—even with the Omicron variant the Ahluwalias are planning for some joyous partying in summer 2022.
