JJ Valaya to preview Fall-Winter 2002 collection at exclusive Swarovski exhibition in London

Indian Fashion takes its first steps towards the International Arena

New Delhi, June 20, 2002: Swarovski’s sole brand ambassador for India and India’s leading couturier - JJ Valaya, is all set to enthrall the international fashion community, as he previews his latest Fall / Winter 2002-03 collection at a special Swarovski exhibition in London, which starts on the 24th of June, 2002. This exclusive exhibition is being held at the Swarovski Creative Service Center……………………………………………… . A curtain raiser to the Fall-Winter 2002-03 shows to be held in Delhi and Mumbai in September 2002, this collection will feature select creations from the House of Valaya’s three labels - JJ Valaya, Studio Valaya and Valaya Home. The one-month long exhibition is part of Swarovski’s endeavor to promote Indian fashion on a global platform.

The JJ Valaya exhibition will feature 5 collections, which utilize along with exquisite Swarovski crystals, various embroidery techniques including handwork using silk-thread, beads, metal and moquaish besides custom printing and weaving techniques. The collections move from a soft pastel palette into a brighter Indian one and finally into rich jewel tones. The entire collection is made only using natural fabrics. The JJ Valaya Fall - Winter 2002-03 collection was conceived over the last 6 months and used the skills of over 200 embroiders.

JJ Valaya is the first Indian designer to be invited by Swarovski to hold an exhibition internationally. To commemorate the occasion, Ms. Nadja Swarovski, Vice-President, International Corporate Communications, Swarovski, would be hosting a lunch meet for Mr. Valaya with prominent international media and fashion journalists on the 25th of June. This will also provide an opportunity for the international fashion media to gain an insight into Indian fashion.

On the eve of the exhibition, JJ Valaya said: “Both Swarovski and the House of Valaya share similar basic values of timeless appeal and exquisite beauty. Needless to say, I am greatly honored to be a part of the Swarovski family. Ever since my inception as their Brand Ambassador for India last year, I have thoroughly enjoyed myself with this exciting medium. For this exhibition and for all our future endeavors, I look forward to continued experimentation and opportunities to exploit this versatility of Swarovski crystal components.”