Designer duo Shantanu-Nikhil open WIFW 2012

New Delhi: Designer duo Shantanu and Nikhil gave a head start to the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn-Winter 2012 with Bollywood actresses Dia Mirza and Sameera Reddy gracing the front seat.

The designers, whose label is synonymous with luxury and known for elegance and sophistication, took the centre stage with their collection at the opening of the 19th edition of the event.

Models sashayed down the runway in metallic hued dresses and gowns with bright colors like pink and green thrown in. The evening wear styled pieces were in chiffons, crepes with innovative necklines and back. Saree-inspired gowns were also a part of the range.

Designer duo Shantanu-Nikhil open WIFW 2012

A model walks the ramp during WIFW 2012

As the designer duo came to take a bow at the end of the event, they pulled up Dia and Sameera onto the ramp.

When asked why they did not walk as showstoppers for the designer duo, both Dia and Sameera said, "We did walk the ramp though. I think it was better as a surprise. We did not expect to be pulled onto the ramp. It was very nice."

Dia, who has a longtime association with the designer duo, was all praises for their new autumn-winter collection. "Four and a half years ago I bought my first Shantanu-Nikhil gown. Then I coaxed them into designing my costumes for a film and we have been inseparable since then. Their clothes are about women who are confident and know their body."

Sameera, who wore a hot pink flowy gown, also chipped in her support for her favourite designer. "What I like most about their clothes is that it makes you look very slim. That's something every woman likes," she said.

Talking about their collection, designer Nikhil said, "The designs are inspired by the women of today, like Sameera and Dia, who want to feel special. The designs are different but not out of the box. It is simple, wearable. It is all about mix and match. Accessorization is a big part of our collection."