The exposition themed “Artisanal- Bringing the Craft to the Fore’ promises a new benchmark in showcasing India’s rich heritage styled in a contemporary manner.  In what will be a fusion of Indian Couture and international construction, the collections will be an amalgamation of the finest weaves, embroideries, jewels, stones and unique techniques.

Keeping in mind the tradition of the event, the “Swarovski Apsara” will adorn the venue helping create a world of grandiose and vibrant beauty.  Symbolic for the ephemeral enchantress, Swarovski Apsara – will be the muse for the bridal couture exposition.

Talking about the Apsara, Tarun Tahiliani said “The Apsara is the symbol of the exposition – giving a new modern shine through use of SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS to a traditional form – as is the thrust of Bridal Couture Exposition this year. A new way for our glorious artisanal traditions.”

“We are delighted that our long standing association with Tarun Tahiliani has been redefining luxurious weddings and raised Indian bridal fashion to the level of artistry via this collaboration with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS.  Tarun is one of India’s most celebrated designers and we are very pleased to be able to support him at every important landmark in his career, said Sanjay Sharma, Director, SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, Swarovski India.

Manish Malhotra as the Grand Finale Designer for Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/ Festive 2011, scheduled from August 16 – 21 in Mumbai. Manish Malhotra is the first Lakmé Grand Finale designer who showcased his Shimmer Shine Sparkle collection way back in 1999 and presented the Free Spirit Collection in 2007. This year, he is poised to bring to life the high performance long-wear makeup range, Lakmé ABSOLUTE. This will be the third time where he will be showcasing his collection at the Lakmé Grand Finale.

Revolutionizing costume design and introducing the concept of styling in Bollywood films has made Manish one of the most recognized names in the fashion industry globally. Synonymous with contemporary Indian wear, he is known to create glamorous ensembles with Indian color and, textures combined with international fashion sensibilities.

Excited about showcasing his collection at the Lakmé Grand Finale, Manish Malhotra said, “My association with Lakmé began more than a decade ago with the first Lakmé Grand Finale show and it has only strengthened over the years. I’m very excited to once again present my new collection at the Grand Finale this season. My winter festive collection would showcase contemporary Indian evening wear garments. Lakmé ABSOLUTE is inspired by the contemporary Indian woman who effortlessly plays myriad set of roles across her personal and professional life. Akin to my style, the collection adapts contemporary fashion to the needs of the Indian woman.”

Capital Group has announced the next season of DFW Spring/Summer 2012 (SS12), which will run from 20th to 24th October 2011, at The Arena, Dubai World Trade Centre.

Commenting on the upcoming season, Umang Suri, Chief Operating Officer of Capital Group said, “We remain committed to Dubai Fashion Week and are working with leading experts in the business to grow this event as the most important fashion design trade event in the region. This is an important platform for emerging and established designers to showcase their seasonal collections to industry stakeholders, and we want to give them the right avenues to grow both, their business and the regional fashion industry as a whole.”

The four days of grandeur and ornateness in the Mecca of fashion, Paris will kick off today with the Couture Week Autumn/Winter 2011, unfolding the high end creativity by the venerable names of the fashion.

Christian Dior sans John Galliano after 14 years will open the week which will later witness the Chanel, Givenchy, Elie Saab, Giorgio Armani Prive, Valentino and Jean Paul Gaultier exhibiting the finest and most exquisite designs on the runways of Paris throughout these four days.

This twice in year fashion extravaganza turns out to be meeting point for the Hollywood celebs, royalty of the world and the fashion loving billionaires ready to splurge exorbitant sum for the exclusive pieces carrying one-of-its-kind tag.

The highlight of the week is the bold and outspoken Tunisian Designer, Azzedine Alaia whose recent commentary on Karl Lagerfeld and Anna Wintour left many mouth open. The designer will make a return to Fashion week by her semi couture designs. Besides, Givenchy will exhibit with conceptual couturiers like Maison Martin Margiela and Bouchra Jarrar and for the first Giambattista Valli will present his couture range on official couture circuit.

Beyonce sparkled in a crown by Farah Khan Ali for Swarovski Runway Rocks in her highly anticipated upcoming album ‘4’ artwork.

Beyonce chose to wear this one of a kind couture piece, entitled ‘Goddess’  It was made as celebration of femininity; the wearer of this crown represents the goddess within all women. The crown designe d by Farah Khan Ali is encrusted with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS in shades of gold and orange.

"The inspiration for this crown is "Goddess", she is the source of life, adored for her beauty and grace. Beyonce is such a style icon and idealized all over the world; she is a "Goddess" in the true sense of the word” says Farah Khan Ali.