Leading Assamese designer Meghna Rai Medhi's latest collection proves that the humble jute cloth can be the basis for chic and trendy evening and lounge wear.

Characterised by simple, flowing lines and hues like cream, white and pink, Meghna's creations in jute included mini skirts, pants and even bikini tops with matching skirts and shorts.

"When I was asked to put together the jute collection, I was a bit apprehensive as thought I might not have too many options. I wasn't even sure that the jute dresses would look good," Meghna told IANS after the "Vastra" show at the Grand Hotel here Thursday night.

"But I'm very happy with the way things turned out," said Meghna, who is best known for her saris and evening wear made with traditional Assamese cottons and silks and featuring tribal motifs of the northeast.

Her jute creations were in complete contrast to the colourful saris she is usually associated it. "I decided to keep the jute dresses very simple and not too colourful, with the stress on the cuts," she said. 

"There were very few embellishments - just some coins and sequins. Jute is very transparent and we blended it with cotton to get better results. In that sense it was also a challenge as there was minimal use of buttons and accessories."

Meghna said the entire collection of 30 outfits was created in about 20 days for the show that was sponsored by the Jute Manufactures Development Council and the North East Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corp.

"Some of the cuts were even based on Egyptian styles with long flowing lines," Meghna said.

The outfits were shown off on the ramp by leading models from the northeast, including Monikonkona Dutta of Assam.

"Vastra", which was inaugurated by Textiles Minister Shankersinh Vaghela, also featured 30 of Meghna's saris and dresses made with Assamese cottons and silk.

"These are my traditional creations, using Assamese handlooms and tribal designs. But I made use of more cotton than silk in a simple line of clothes that would be wearable in the summer," she said.

While some saris featured Meghna's trademark silver and gold embroidery, others had simple borders featuring traditional Assamese designs in red, maroon and orange.

"Well, this show has proved that jute is something that we can wear, and that jute is not just for making mats and carpets. Now we have to see whether people accept it," Meghna said.