One of India’s most eminent designers, Rajesh Pratap Singh, is set to debut a capsule collection at the upcoming Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI. This collaboration symbolizes the seamless integration of fashion and sport, paying homage to the timeless tradition and prestige of Polo in India.

In alignment with this celebration of polo heritage, the collection will feature exclusive pieces inspired by the colonial-inspired aesthetics of the GUARDS Polo Club collection from La Martina. Taking center stage as the opening evening and the inaugural off-site spectacle of the season, this partnership brings together two heritage brands to unveil an exhibition that exudes legacy and distinction.

La Martina, synonymous with luxurious polo attire, recently introduced its SS24 collection, which celebrates the essence of polo culture through diverse themes and styles. From the adventurous La Martina Argentina line to the colonial-inspired aesthetics of the GUARDS Polo Club collection, each piece reflects the brand’s dedication to expert craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Through this collaboration, Rajesh Pratap Singh seamlessly integrates his design language into La Martina’s existing lineup.

The upcoming collection is a tribute to the deep connection between Jaipur and Polo, effectively celebrating the city’s vibrant culture and profound ties with the sport. Filled with nostalgia, this collection serves as a respectful honor to the players and stalwarts of Polo in India while also acknowledging La Martina’s relentless authenticity and dedication to the sport. Distinguished by intricate details, the collection perfectly fuses heritage and innovation, featuring elements such as flat knit intarsia, fine mercerized flat knits, chevron intarsia variations, zardosi badges, hand block printing, miniature art-inspired polo digital art, Jaipur architecture-inspired all-over embroidery, custom-woven jacquard, silk twill and satin prints, fine linens, and riding breeches, all meticulously curated to enhance the ensemble to a world of refined elegance.

The amalgamation of polo spirit and Rajasthan heritage is evident in the collection, with handmade and hand-block signatures. Polos carved from the finest fine Pima and mercerized yarns showcase true polo heritage styling.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Mahalaxmi Racecourse, the showcase promises a day of exciting events. Kicking off with a friendly polo match between the Guards Polo Club team and La Martina’s official team, graced by renowned players such as Phoebe Leake, Edward Morris Lowe, and Malcolm Borwick. Guards Polo Club, founded in 1955 by HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, stands as one of the world’s top polo venues, with 600 games each season hosted in the heart of Windsor Great Park near Windsor Castle. The official La Martina polo team, representing India in the friendly match, boasts an impressive lineup featuring Navin Singh, Gaurav Sahgal, and Dino Dhankar, representing the spirit of polo heritage and excellence, and infusing the event with a thrilling fusion of fashion and sport. Post-match, an engaging masterclass will provide attendees with unique insights into the world of Polo. As the sun sets, the grand finale will unfold with the eagerly awaited display of Rajesh Pratap Singh’s latest capsule collection for La Martina, perfectly blending heritage, fashion, and sport.

“For the Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI collaboration with La Martina, I’m excited to bring forth a collection that speaks volumes about the enduring charm of Polo in India. It’s more than just fashion; it celebrates heritage and sport seamlessly woven together. The intricate details and vibrant cultural nods in the upcoming pieces embody a heartfelt tribute to Jaipur’s dynamic spirit,” renowned fashion designer Rajesh Pratap Singh expresses.

Adrian Simonetti, co-founder, and president of La Martina, expresses, “Polo is one of those sports that could be considered the last frontier to luxury. There are so many beautiful things connected, like passion for the horse, the lifestyle that comes with it, beautiful landscapes, and beautiful people going to those. The more sophisticated customers are now scratching the surface saying, ‘I get the appeal, but what’s original?’ They go a little bit deeper into the category, and that’s where we get discovered.”