Ahmedabad: The much-anticipated Ahmedabad Times Fashion Week 2024, an initiative of The Times Group and the biggest fashion extravaganza in the city, kicked off in grand style on September 13 at the Hyatt Regency, Ahmedabad. The first day set the tone for a thrilling celebration of fashion, with a fusion of heritage, innovation and glamour that captivated audiences.The opening show, Heritage Patan Patola, was a visual homage to Gujarat’s rich weaving tradition. The Salvi family, custodians of this ancient craft, presented their collection “Ikat Pitara”. The intricate Patola sarees featured motifs like Manek Chowk and Narikunjar, offering a nostalgic nod to the royal past. Neepa and Hetal Salvi, alongside master weaver Kanubhai Salvi, transported the audience to a bygone era, with showstopper Kajal Pisal exuding regal grace in a Patola ensemble. The collection seamlessly blended tradition with contemporary appeal,including lehengas and menswear, ensuring that Patan Patola continues to resonate with modern fashion enthusiasts.The runway then lit up with Silver Oak Institute of Design’s “Daybreak Collection”. Inspired by the soft glow of dawn, the collection featured a harmonious blend of indigo, white and peach, reflecting serenity and optimism. Natural dyes and flowing silhouettes added a touch of eco- conscious elegance to the show. The young designers at Silver Oak proved their prowess, howcasing a perfect balance of tradition and modernity. The collective creativity of the team made the entire presentation a showstopper in itself.