A model presents creations by Mandira Wirk during the Fall-Winter 2004-05 fashion show in New Delhi. Picture taken October 20, 2004. [See Photos]

Mixing fabrics, colours and elegantly styling the finished product is what Bibhu Mohapatra is adept at. Mohapatra, director of design with the famous French label J. Mendel, acknowledges that his Indian background influences him.

As the only Indian with the fashion label and one who enjoys an influential position within it next only to its head Gilles Mendel, Mohapatra in his official capacity covers the entire range of the collection - from concept and design to selecting each item for the fashion show.

This fall, he says, the hottest elements in fashion are alligator combined with silk chiffon, fur discreetly mixed with fabric and rich shades of brown and pale shades of beige.