Bhubaneswar, Feb. 24: A fashion show with outfits made from traditional textiles of Odisha was held as part of the National Handloom Expo.

Weavers from various states across the country have displayed their handloom products at the fair organised by Boyanika, Odisha State Handloom Weavers' Co-operative Society Limited.

Around 12 models who had come from Mumbai and Calcutta walked the ramp yesterday.

To begin with, the models walked the ramp showcasing saris designed by prominent weavers from the state. In the next two rounds, the models wore outfits designed by the students of National Institute of Fashion Technology, Bhubaneswar.

"I hope the collection makes Odisha's fabrics visible in the fashion industry. The attempt is unique and it needs to be promoted in fashion circles. It should be a concerted effort by everyone, including the fashion designers, artistes and fashion enthusiasts from the state," said Sreeja Poona, a fashion designer who attended the event.

The designers kept the outfits elegant with interesting motifs and myriad hues. Meant for women of all ages, the collection involved bright colours and intricate stitches.

With the launch of the collection, Boyanika aims to change the mindset of customers in Odisha who often go to metros outside the state to buy designer clothes.

"There are several people in the state who feel fashionable clothes are not available in two or three-tier cities. I feel the young designers in the state can do a lot by using the traditional designs and fabrics available around them. This is how the bridge between need and accessibility can be gapped," said an official from Boyanika.

Around 110 kiosks have been put up at the fair with participants from 18 states. Several local handloom traders are selling fabrics of the state such as Sambalpuri, khandua and ikkat.

An array of garments, including salwar suits, casual and formal kurtis, stoles and saris, in a variety of fabrics are available.

The fair has registered a cumulative sale of Rs 6 crore and the department has targeted a business of Rs 10 crore by the end of the fair that concludes on February 26. The aim of the exhibition is to facilitate sustainable livelihood for weavers and providing them a common platform for understanding trends in the handloom sector.