Alaya F’s gunmetal Monisha Jaising look took 500 hours to create

For a recent Diwali soirée, Alaya F eschewed the expected jewel tones and shimmer-laden saris in favour of an unconventional gunmetal silver sculptural outfit by Monisha Jaising. The molten hue, neither loud nor understated, illustrated a futuristic edge and was a perfect match for the actor’s modern sensibility.

“Alaya’s ensemble is a modern sculptural drape in a gunmetal silver hue, blending the fluidity of a sari silhouette with the edginess of contemporary couture,” shares Jaising. The designer’s concept draws from the idea of liquid metal, “where there’s an interplay of movement, light and texture that feels alive and ever-changing.”

The drape skirt with cut-outs on the sides, crafted from a laminated metallic georgette, bore a subtle crinkle texture and a reflective surface that mirrors the aesthetic. The silhouette is a study in contrasts, where a traditional style is reimagined with an architectural sensibility. The embellishment, too, pushes boundaries. An intricate mix of hand-embroidered crystals, gunmetal beads, emerald-toned stones and metallic chains come together seamlessly. “This piece took about 400 to 500 artisanal hours,” she explains, “because the intention was to make the fabric itself feel sculptural as if it was moulded by light.”

The blouse, a structured number with a halter neckline and open-back design, tied the narrative together. It is accented with the same surface ornamentation as the skirt, while its chain-style beaded strings cascaded across the bodice for some extra drama. It featured the same intricate crystal and gunmetal beadwork that echoed the detailing on the draped skirt, creating a seamless dialogue between structure and shimmer.

Alaya F kept the styling minimal, accessorising with nothing except one diamond ear cuff on one side. For makeup, she went the elegant and edgy route with a wash of silver eyeshadow and glossy pink lips.