India, Barneys, Indian crafts, Freida Pinto
It was about the beautiful city of Varanasi, of endangered silks and a way of life that is under threat. Barneys New York with Freida Pinto, David Adjaye and Wendy Schmidt hosted a private dinner to celebrate the the luxuy brand Maiyet Varanasi Silk Capsule Collection and the nonprofit Nest Varanasi Silk Weaving Facility which through an innovative partnership are bringing new hope to weavers, helping them to redefine and rethink their craft production. It’s all about preserving the centuries old tradition of handloom silk by creating high demand creations and a whole new market.
Freida Pinto herself wore a stunning Maiyet jacket in green brocade teamed with a turquoise midi dress – bringing beautiful peacock colors to a fabulously Indian evening in the grand ballroom of the Indian Consulate, a period townhouse near Central Park. Candlelight and live Indian music underscored the mood of the evening.
The evening was planned in partnership with the Consulate and guests included Consul General Ambassador Dynaneshwar Mulay, Daniella Vitale, CEO of Barney’s New York, Paul Van Zyl and Kristy Caylor, founders of Maiyet, David Adjaye, Richard Perry, Christiane Amanpour, Amanda Hearst, Princess Khaliya Aga Khan, Rula Jebreal, Floyd Cardoz, Alexi Ashe, Ariel Ashe and many other noted names.
Pinto is a big supporter of NEST. The silk saga is ongoing and has a happy ending for the weavers: NEST and Maiyet are creating a facility in Varanasi, designed by architect David Adjaye, which will streamline the production process and keep the art of silk weaving vibrant for the next generation.
(C) Lavina Melwani
(This article first appeared in Hi Blitz)
