Why doesn't BDSM fashion impress Indian celebs?

Fashion can't seem to get enough of the whole dominatrix and bondage trend. It’s been over four years but the obsession with S&M inspired clothing just doesn’t let up. Each time I think this is one topic I can put to bed (no pun intended), I’m offered a new round of fishnet, latex, leather, chokers and PVC. Not all of us have a penchant for voyeurism. However, when ultra glamourous styles take a turn for the steamy, then lusting after them just can’t be helped.

Those from the fairer sex who happily embrace this style, feel its power comes on strong-boosting confidence, a sassy flush to the cheeks, an audacious strut, a cheeky lift to the derriere, an empowering immodesty and an almost irreverent come hither attitude. They warm up to the leash and harness inspired stuff and enjoy being strapped, tied, bandaged and chained into layers of chiffon, wisps of satin — all belted and strapped together in leather. For the curious and not so daring, they prefer to poke and probe around — try mesh, thong, a strap here and a belt there.

However, if you’re one of those who are averse to all things risqué, then you may as well turn the page. Some women prefer to ride their high moral horse, and turn a blind eye to all things bold. This of course is their prerogative, but who knows they may be tied down by shackles of their own. So all assumptions must be backed by fact and to this end I present a line up of celebrities, designers, fashion weeks and movies that endorse this trend with their sign of approval. Take for starters the recently concluded London and New York Fashion Weeks watched by fashion and label junkies across the world. What was apparent was the obvious bondage inspired collections of many designers. There was designer Julien Macdonald whose unapologetic line up was a flirty mix of gothic glamour tempered with overtly sexual motifs like chokers, PVC gloves, mesh cutouts and fish net. Marko Mitanovski also played with the theme and featured a collection replete with fish net body suits, capes, corsets, collars and masks. Even accessory designer Sophia Webster added a touch of the dominatrix to her footwear collection.

Now let’s talk about celebrities who take to this fashion trend like fish to water. There are surely no surprises when names like Lady Gaga and Rihanna come to mind. These pop icons have perfected dominatrix and bondage inspired ensembles to the T. Madonna has been and is still the leading lady when it comes to the dark side of fashion and shows off her curves in crowning glory. At the recently held Grammy Awards however, she pushed it a little too far to the point of looking almost like a caricature. Then there are younger celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj and Katy Perry who have experimented with this theme both in fashion and through their music videos. Kim Kardashian, Beyonce and Iggy Azalea have also been spotted in latex, PVC, mesh and straps.

Last and certainly not the least, this wave might have been well timed with the whole Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy, which has raked in the interest and the moolah. It is also one of the most anticipated movies for 2015 and so it merits that a novel that could inspire fashion can also keep the interest ablaze in the wake of the movie both on and off the runway. Movies like Barb Wire, Body of Evidence and Payback have all influenced fashion in their time. But here’s some food for thought — if the whole fetish, bondage and dominatrix theme is inspiring fashion and celebrities all over the world, how come desi celebs are steering clear of this trend?