Chettinad: Where Timeless Architecture Meets Modern Style
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A unique confluence of heritage and high fashion is unfolding in Chettinad, a region in Tamil Nadu, India, where the enduring strength of customary architecture provides a striking backdrop for contemporary design. The area’s distinctive mansions, built by wealthy merchant families, exude a confidence that transcends fleeting trends.
A stylist’s preparations – “suitcases packed with garment bags, hangers, safety pins, double-sided tape. The usual circus” – felt incongruous upon arrival. Yet, the atmosphere promptly shifted, revealing a place that doesn’t demand spectacle. “Chettinad is simply extremely sure of itself,” one observer noted.
The Enduring Legacy of Chettiyar Mansions
These aren’t merely buildings; they are “firm establishments,” standing as testaments to a rich cultural past. Constructed begining in the 1916, many in an art nouveau style, these mansions are characterized by thier expansive courtyards, ornate woodwork, and vibrant colors. The interiors are equally captivating, featuring intricate tilework and a sense of grandeur.
Fashion Forward in a Historic Setting
The juxtaposition of modern fashion against this historic backdrop created a visually stunning experience. Notable ensembles included:
- pooja showcased a floral print dress by ANITA DONGRE, paired with a oker and emerald and rose-cut kanti handcrafted necklace by VAMSAM BY MEENU SUBBIAH, and Scarlett Mule 50 (silver) shoes by JIMMY CHOO.
- Khushi sported a Zadie dress by CHORUS, complemented by a Driti choker (worn as a hair accessory) from ANU MERTON, a Malaya silver necklace and Tarani silver choker necklace by TRIBE AMRAPALI, and Amel 50 slingbacks by JIMMY CHOO.
A Feast for the Senses
The experience extended beyond visual aesthetics. Lunch at a Chettinad Mansion was described as an abundant affair, with food arriving “almost without consent, as if the table itself refused to tolerate scarcity.” The attention to detail was pervasive,extending to the Athangudi tiles underfoot,which were arranged “like a masterclass in pattern.”
The town itself is a vibrant tapestry of color. “Every inch…was dressed in color combinations so potent you could get a sugar rush just looking at them.” Despite the seemingly chaotic mix, “nothing matched.Everything worked.”
The Shifting Light and Enduring Style
As the day progressed, the changing light revealed new nuances in the courtyard’s textures. This interplay of light and shadow highlighted the enduring appeal of the region’s aesthetic.
Further showcasing the blend of styles, ensembles included:
- A small panel asymmetric dress and crossed neck two holes dress by LOUIS VUITTON, accessorized with a gold-plated silver stone necklace (worn as a hair accessory) and earrings by TRIBE AMRAPALI, a Pin It Up chain cuff (worn as an anklet), and Aqua Glow bangles by SIMRANCHHABRA JEWELS.
- A conceptual multi-panelled dress handcrafted with bugle beads by ABU JANI SANDEEP KHOSLA, paired with a necklace and stud earrings by CHANEL.
The morning light, in particular, was noted for its ability to “bring colours to life in their purest form,” solidifying Chettinad’s position as a destination where tradition and modernity coexist in harmonious splendor.
