A new fashion business, based in Stanmore, which specialises in Indian dress, is bringing the best of traditional fashion to the high street.

According to Purvee Shah, who runs the business from her home in Bush Grove, it is Princess Diana who has managed to help propel Indian traditional dress, like the saree, into the mainstream.

She said: "There are a lot of English people who come to my house now and buy clothes from me. The effect that Princess Diana has had on Asian dress wear is incredible."

This season's catwalks were littered with references to Hindu culture. Henna dye and heavily embroidered tops and beaded cardigans were matched with Western accessories.

Indeed, as Miss Shah admitted, the English women who buy the clothes tend to only buy bits of outfits, rather than a whole garment, whereas the Asian women who buy the clothes will not dilute the traditional dress down.

Cultural identities are expressed in many ways throughout the world and non more so than in the form of fashion. With British and American designers taking their inspiration from countries such as Japan, China and especially India, where traditional dress is one of then most prominent forms of maintaining and supporting a collective cultural identity, perhaps the cultural divide can find some kind of harmony in fashion at least. Afterall fashion is said to be an international language.

Miss Shah can be contacted on 0181 952 3202. Viewing is by appointment only. Prices start at £100.

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