Pardey key Pichey

From a good friend of mine, I got an offer to help backstage at Ritu Beri’s fashion show, which was held on 5th July at Lido in Paris. At first, I wanted to deny this proposal, but on second thought, it seemed like it might be fun to be there with friends, so I nodded my head in approval. Ace fashion designer Ritu Beri is the first Asian to have joined a French fashion house, making a slow transition from Indian Haute Couture to Prêt-à-porter (ready to wear).

Believe me, it was a 30-minute affair in a one-hour show. The work involved helping models get dressed in a mélange of meticulously designed Indo-western outfits. The dresses, along with accessories and shoes, were properly tagged and kept ready for each model. With barely a 15-second gap between changes, each of us was allotted a particular model to assist in changing and getting dressed. Sometimes, the fitting wasn’t quite right, requiring special attention from Ritu’s assistant to get them stitched or tucked at the last moment.

You could see the stress on Ritu’s face, but she managed it bravura. For me, although I wasn’t a spectator, it was just as much fun being backstage, peeping through curtains to get a glimpse of the stage and making comments.

Since my co-helpers forgot their cameras, I was persuaded to take photos. In the process, I ended up taking more photos than I had intended. Thanks to all those unknown models who posed for an amateur like me.

For our 30 minutes of help, we were all given a token of gratitude from Ritu’s collection—a sequined crushed silk top.

Though this event took place in the first week of July and I posted the pictures in the gallery that very day, I didn’t get an opportunity to wear the top. So, I kept pushing this post to the backburner until today.

The excitement and energy backstage were palpable. The models were a blend of grace and nerves, flitting in and out of outfits in mere seconds. The Indo-western designs were a sight to behold—rich fabrics, intricate embroidery, and bold accessories. The colors ranged from deep, regal hues to soft, pastel shades, each ensemble telling its own story on the ramp.

Ritu Beri, with her keen eye for detail and unparalleled creativity, orchestrated the show like a maestro. The hustle and bustle, the quick changes, the last-minute adjustments—it all culminated in a flawless presentation that left the audience in awe. Even from my limited vantage point backstage, I could feel the electrifying response from the crowd.

The camaraderie among the backstage helpers was heartwarming. Despite the chaos and pressure, everyone worked together seamlessly, helping each other out when needed. There was laughter, shared glances of relief, and a collective cheer when the final model walked the ramp. It was a shared experience that bonded us, even if just for that brief time.

Reflecting on the experience now, I realize how much I learned about the intricacies of a fashion show. It’s not just about the glamour and glitz; it’s about meticulous planning, teamwork, and handling unexpected challenges with grace. It’s about the passion and dedication of every individual involved, from the designers to the models to the backstage crew.

Wearing the sequined crushed silk top now, I’m reminded of that whirlwind day. It’s not just a piece of clothing; it’s a memento of an unforgettable experience. It’s a reminder of the creativity, hard work, and sheer magic that goes into creating a fashion show. And most importantly, it’s a reminder of the fun and friendships that made it all worthwhile.